Evidence supporting the use of: Hericium mushroom
For the health condition: Parkinson's Disease

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

Hericium erinaceus, commonly known as Lion's Mane mushroom, has gained attention for its potential neuroprotective properties, particularly in relation to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Its use is justified by emerging scientific research rather than a long tradition of use specifically for PD. Preclinical studies, mainly in cell culture and animal models, suggest that compounds in Hericium, such as hericenones and erinacines, can promote nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis, enhance neuronal survival, and reduce neuroinflammation and oxidative stress—processes implicated in PD pathology.

Some animal studies have reported that extracts of Hericium can protect dopaminergic neurons (the primary neurons lost in PD) and improve motor function in toxin-induced models of Parkinson’s. However, robust clinical evidence in humans is lacking. Only a few small pilot studies or case reports are available, and these do not provide definitive conclusions regarding efficacy or safety for PD patients. No major clinical trials have yet confirmed its benefits in PD.

In summary, while there is promising preclinical evidence supporting the neuroprotective potential of Hericium erinaceus, especially in mechanisms relevant to Parkinson’s Disease, human clinical data are insufficient. Thus, scientific support exists but is preliminary, and the overall evidence is rated as low to moderate (2 out of 5) at this time.

More about Hericium mushroom
More about Parkinson's Disease

Products containing Hericium mushroom

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