Evidence supporting the use of: Basidiomycota
For the health condition: Dementia

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Basidiomycota is a large phylum of fungi that includes various medicinal mushrooms such as Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane), Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), and others. Some species within this group have been studied for their potential neuroprotective properties. The most notable is Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), which has garnered attention for its possible role in supporting cognitive function and slowing neurodegeneration.

Preclinical studies (in vitro and in animal models) suggest that certain compounds from Basidiomycota, such as erinacines and hericenones from Lion’s Mane, may stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis and promote neuronal health. Some small human clinical trials have shown modest cognitive benefits in older adults with mild cognitive impairment when given Lion’s Mane extracts. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in 2009 (Mori et al., Phytotherapy Research) reported improved cognitive function in elderly Japanese patients with mild cognitive impairment after 16 weeks of Lion’s Mane supplementation, though effects diminished after cessation. Other Basidiomycota mushrooms, such as Reishi, are traditionally used for overall health and longevity, but robust clinical evidence for dementia support is lacking.

Overall, while there is some emerging scientific evidence—particularly for Lion’s Mane—supporting the use of certain Basidiomycota mushrooms for cognitive health, the quality and quantity of clinical data remain limited. More rigorous, large-scale human studies are needed to confirm efficacy and safety for dementia treatment or prevention.

More about Basidiomycota
More about Dementia

Products containing Basidiomycota

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.