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Hericenones

Also known as: Hericenones, Lion's Mane mushroom, Monkey's head mushroom, Hericium erinaceus

Overview

Hericenones are bioactive compounds derived from the fruiting body of the edible mushroom *Hericium erinaceus*, known as Lion's Mane mushroom. These low-molecular-weight, hydrophobic compounds are gaining attention for their potential neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. The primary mechanism through which hericenones are thought to exert their effects involves stimulating the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF) in cell cultures (*in vitro*), which is essential for neuronal health and function. However, the *in vivo* effects of hericenones remain less clear due to limited research, primarily consisting of preliminary *in vitro* studies. Overall, while hericenones are a promising area of research, much remains to be understood about their safety and efficacy in humans.

Benefits

Current evidence surrounding the benefits of hericenones is limited and largely indirect. Most research focuses on *Hericium erinaceus* extracts rather than isolated hericenones. There is some limited suggestion that extracts may provide cognitive benefits, particularly in populations with mild cognitive impairment. However, these findings cannot specifically attribute these effects to hericenones alone, as the extract contains a variety of active compounds including erinacines. Overall, robust clinical evidence substantiating the specific benefits of hericenones is currently lacking.

How it works

Hericenones are thought to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis in vitro, playing a role in the maintenance and growth of neurons. This interaction is primarily based on *in vitro* data, with the mechanisms involving the NGF pathways being the primary focus. There is currently no clear evidence indicating that hericenones effectively cross the blood-brain barrier in humans or their overall bioavailability in the body.

Side effects

Safety data specific to hericenones are currently lacking, as they have mostly been studied as part of *Hericium erinaceus* extracts. Overall, these compounds are generally considered safe, but specific side effects for isolated hericenones have not been documented. Common and uncommon side effects are not reported, and risk factors, drug interactions, or contraindications are also unknown. Consequently, caution is advised, and further research is warranted to establish a comprehensive safety profile.

Dosage

There are no established dosage guidelines for isolated hericenones, as minimum effective, optimal, and maximum safe doses remain unspecified. Current research does not provide clear recommendations on timing, form-specific considerations, or absorption factors. Given the lack of targeted studies, it is essential to approach supplementation with hericenones cautiously.

FAQs

What are hericenones?

Hericenones are compounds isolated from the Lion's Mane mushroom, *Hericium erinaceus*, and are studied for their potential cognitive-enhancing effects.

Are hericenones safe to consume?

Generally, hericenones are considered safe as part of *Hericium erinaceus* extracts, but specific safety data for isolated compounds are lacking.

What benefits can I expect from hericenones?

Research indicates potential cognitive benefits but evidence specifically attributing these to hericenones is limited.

How should I take hericenones?

There are no established dosing guidelines for isolated hericenones due to limited research on their effects.

How do hericenones work?

Hericenones are believed to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis, which is crucial for neuron health and regeneration.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2020.00155/full – This article discusses the potential cognitive benefits of extracts from *Hericium erinaceus* but does not specifically isolate the effects of hericenones. It highlights several biological mechanisms potentially contributing to cognitive health.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32293681/ – This PubMed entry provides information on a study that shows NGF synthesis stimulation by hericenones in vitro. The study emphasizes the need for more clinical research to understand the in vivo implications.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/22/4842 – This publication discusses dietary interventions for mental health, including mushrooms like *Hericium erinaceus*. It notes the lack of systematic studies focused on hericenones specifically.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/21501201003735556 – The study reviews the broader effects of *Hericium erinaceus* on cognitive function, primarily focusing on extract benefits rather than isolated hericenones.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/368465770_Use_of_Hericium_erinaceus_as_a_potential_therapeutic_of_mental_disorders_a_systematic_review – This systematic review evaluates various studies on *Hericium erinaceus* and its potential as a treatment for mental disorders but indicates that direct evidence for hericenones remains sparse.