A Life-Changing Brain Health Supplement: My Honest Review of Hericium Erinaceus

Hello everyone!

Last year, I started noticing that my focus would fade when tackling complex tasks. Remembering new information became a real challenge. I knew I had to do something about it. Thanks to the lectures by mushroom advocate Mikhail Vishnevsky, a renowned mycologist, I was introduced to the world of mushrooms and their medicinal properties. I started with reishi mushrooms, and you can read my review here.

As I delved into natural ways to support brain health, I stumbled upon information about the lion's mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) and decided to give it a try.

This is what dried lion's mane mushroom looks like✅ The history of using the mushroom for human benefit

The history of using Hericium erinaceus for medicinal purposes dates back centuries. For centuries, the lion's mane mushroom was highly valued in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine.

Healers believed it nourished the five internal organs (heart, liver, spleen, lungs, and kidneys). They particularly emphasized its ability to soothe the spirit.However, it wasn't until modern science and analysis methods developed that its beneficial properties started getting concrete scientific backing.

✅ What's in the Hericium erinaceus mushroom?

It's packed with a unique blend of bioactive compounds. The standout compounds that have really caught the scientific community's attention are:

1. Erinacines and hericenones.These compounds have the ability to

stimulate the production of NGF – a critically important protein for growing, surviving, and regenerating nerve cells in both the central and peripheral nervous system.2. Beta-glucans (β-glucans). These are powerful immunomodulators that have been well-studied in various mushrooms. They activate immune cells (macrophages, natural killers), boosting the body's natural defenses.3. Polysaccharides and glycoproteins. They contribute to overall health and have antioxidant properties.4. Vitamins and minerals. Hericium erinaceus is a rich source of B vitamins (especially thiamine, riboflavin, niacin), vitamin D, potassium, zinc, and selenium.✅ The medicinal effects of Hericium erinaceus

Modern scientific research has confirmed and expanded on ancient knowledge. The proven medicinal properties of the Hericium erinaceus mushroom today are:

1. Supporting and repairing the nervous system.Studies show that it

It's been a game-changer for my brain health. This product has genuinely helped improve my memory and concentration, and I've even noticed a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression. I think it's because it helps normalize the function of my nerve cells and might have an impact on the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).I've also noticed a positive impact on my digestive system.The way it works is pretty cool - it promotes

the growth of good bacteria (a probiotic effect), reduces the growth of bad bacteria (including Helicobacter pylori), and has an anti-inflammatory effect on my gut lining. So, it might help with healing stomach ulcers and duodenal ulcers, reducing inflammation in gastritis and colitis, and generally improving my digestion and nutrient absorption.Another benefit I've experienced is a stronger immune response.Using it regularly has

given my body a boost in its ability to fight off infections (viral and bacterial) and might even help with allergic and autoimmune conditions.Lastly, I've been impressed with its antioxidant and adaptogenic properties.The product is packed with antioxidants and adaptogens, which is pretty amazing.

I started to dig deeper into the benefits of lion's mane extract, and it's amazing what I found. It's got antioxidant properties that neutralize free radicals, which reduces oxidative stress – a major factor in cell aging, inflammation, and chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Preclinical studies in vitro show that lion's mane extract can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve lipid profiles by lowering bad cholesterol and raising good cholesterol.

I started looking for a reputable supplier, but I quickly realized there are two forms of the mushroom available – mycelium and fruit body.

✅ What's the difference between mycelium and fruit body? Which one is more effective?

I dove headfirst into researching which one is more beneficial for human consumption – the mycelium or the fruit body?

The fruit body is the visible above-ground part of the mushroom that we traditionally forage. It's made up of the cap and stem. Mycelium, on the other hand, is the vegetative part of the fungus, consisting of a network of fine threads that provide nutrients and support the growth of the mushroom.

Choosing between mycelium and fruit body ultimately depends on your goals.

When it comes to supporting and restoring the nervous system, boosting mental activity, and preventing neurodegenerative diseases, I'd recommend using products based on mycelium due to its high erinacine content. If your goal is to boost immunity, fight inflammation, and tackle cancer, then using the fruiting body with its rich ginseng-like properties would be more effective. The best approach is to combine mycelium and fruiting body. This combination provides a comprehensive effect: neuroprotection, immunomodulation, and improved digestion. Many modern bioadditives include this exact combination, offering a wide range of benefits from the lion's mane mushroom.So, the question 'Is mycelium or fruiting body more effective?' isn't quite accurate. These two forms of Hericium erinaceus don't compete with each other, but rather complement each other, as they contain different but equally important groups of bioactive compounds for our health.

Since I needed to improve my mental acuity, I decided to try mycelium first without the fruiting body. After reading tons of reviews on Ozon, I chose mycelium powder (100 g) from the ISaC brand (manufacturer OOO "Trade Way").

This option seemed the most cost-effective to me.

✅ Packaging

Standard zip-lock packaging. It's convenient, seals well, and keeps the product dry.

Grebensky Mushroom Benefits Reviews

Grebensky Mushroom Benefits and Side Effects ReviewsLabels are clear. 100 grams is a normal volume for getting familiar with the product.

✅ Appearance, Taste, and Smell

The mycelium powder is a light-beige color, finely ground. The smell is a characteristic, strong earthy, mushroomy scent. Not bitter. I don't mind taking it. The powder is uniform, I didn't notice any lumps in the product from this company.

Grebensky Mushroom Reviews✅ Water Solubility

I don't have much to say about this. Many people dissolve it in hot water, but I don't.

✅ My Intake Schedule and First Impressions

I started with one teaspoon of powder (about 2-3 grams) per day. I'd just take one teaspoon and drink it with water in the morning, on an empty stomach. Some reviewers mention dissolving it in boiling water, but I stuck to the recommendation to preserve as much of the goodness as possible. No honey needed to mask the earthy flavor that some people find unappealing – I didn't need it.

I felt the changes from day one. I got a huge energy boost, and my mind became clearer. I didn't experience any stomach discomfort, unlike some other products I've tried.

✅ Real results

⭕ Impact on focus

My main goal was to improve my cognitive functions. After months of using this product, I can say that the effect was noticeable.

The impact was most apparent after 3-4 weeks of regular use. I found that I could stay focused on complex tasks for longer periods without getting distracted or feeling exhausted. It's not like a caffeine boost - it's a more sustained, background state of concentration. I caught myself less often zoning out during important tasks.

⭕ Impact on memory

The effect here is more subtle and subjective. I didn't become a memory champion, but I noticed that I was less likely to forget names or words that used to slip my mind at the worst possible moment. Remembering sequences of numbers (codes, phone numbers) became slightly easier. Subjectively, the process of recalling information became a bit faster and easier. But it's not a dramatic change - just small, noticeable improvements.

Some online reviewers mention more significant improvements in memory, especially after long-term use (over 6 months), but I haven't experienced that level of effect yet. I guess it's all very individual.

⭕ Clarity of thought

I noticed a slight improvement in mental clarity, especially by mid-day, like a veil lifting.

⭕ Immune system

I was curious to see how this would affect my immune system. Normally, I get sick around 2 times a year. But in 2025, I was unfortunately stuck in bed from February to March. I didn't take the product during that time, so I can't say for sure how it impacts the immune system.

⭕ Nervous system and mental health

When I'm taking the course, I feel more relaxed. Sometimes, everything just clicks into place. I sleep better too.

✅ Were there any negative side effects when taking the Hericium erinaceus mushroom?

No digestive discomfort at all during the course, even though I take it on an empty stomach every morning.Impact on hair. When I started taking the product, my beard hair started falling out in clumps. It subsided after a while, like my body adapted to the mushroom. I didn't notice anything on my head.

✅ Are there any contraindications for taking Hericium erinaceus?

Hericium erinaceus is generally considered a safe mushroom for consumption and in extract form in standard doses. As with any supplement, though, it's all about being cautious. It's contraindicated for:

1. If you're allergic to mushrooms (like mold, yeast, or other types of basidiomycetes), there's a chance you might react to the chanterelle.2. Sugar diabetes and taking hypoglycemic medications.Studies on animals and in vitro show that

polysaccharides and other compounds in the chanterelle can lower blood sugar levels. When taken with diabetes medications (metformin, insulin, and so on), it might lead to an additive effect, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar levels). This is a major concern for people with diabetes.3. Blood clotting disorders and taking anticoagulants.Some research suggests that chanterelle might

One thing I want to mention is that the effects of chaga mushroom are still not fully understood, but it does seem to have a blood-thinning effect, which could potentially increase the risk of bleeding and bruising if taken with medications like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel.

When it comes to autoimmune diseases, I have to be careful because chaga mushroom can stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) and affect the immune response. If you have conditions like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus, I'd recommend consulting with your doctor first, as chaga mushroom could potentially exacerbate your symptoms.

Another thing to consider is the potential interaction with medications metabolized by the liver. Some mushrooms can affect the activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes, which are responsible for breaking down many medications. This could either speed up or slow down the metabolism of certain drugs, affecting their concentration in the blood and effectiveness. Examples include some antidepressants, statins, and painkillers.

Overall, my experience with chaga mushroom has been positive. The main benefits I've noticed include:

1. Improved focus and reduced distractions at work.

2. Enhanced memory recall and reduced instances of mental fogginess.

3. Normalization of my digestive system, with reduced stomach pain after starting the treatment.

My recommendations:

If you're like me, looking for a natural way to boost brain activity and overall well-being, willing to take the product regularly for an extended period (at least 2-3 months), and not expecting instant miracles, then the mycelium of the crested hen-of-the-woods mushroom is worth trying.

But:

Start with small doses (1/3 to 1/2 teaspoon) and take them after meals to minimize the risk of potential allergies or discomfort in the digestive system.Get ready for a long-term approach, as the effects of the mycelium take time to manifest.Carefully inspect the product upon receipt (appearance, smell, packaging integrity).Don't expect a revolution – anticipate a gentle effect.

I hope my personal experience with the hen-of-the-woods mushroom can be helpful to you!

Thanks for your attention!

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