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This may be a new year but there’s nothing new about the interest in plant-based, natural supplements over traditional medications. Why might you ask? The interest stems from women and men alike for several reasons. One main reason is the negative side effects of many prescription medications including the safety of long-term usage.
Another is the rise in consciousness of what we are putting into our bodies. Is it safe, is it natural, is there sufficient evidence of safe long-term usage? Both nootropic mushrooms, like Lion’s Mane, and hemp-derived supplements like CBD oils fall into the category of natural, plant-based supplements and come with a good safety profile. Side effects are rare, and all have been used since ancient times as holistic methods to stay healthy [1].
Eastern medicine makes use of nootropics and CBD is consistently showing up as a popular choice for both women and men looking for plant-derived relied from a variety of health issues. Or simply for general wellbeing. Let’s dive in further.
CAN YOU TAKE LION’S MANE WITH CBD?
The answer is yes! Lion’s Mane and all other nootropic mushrooms are perfectly safe to use alongside CBD oils and other hemp supplements. In fact, they may very well complement one another. It is suggested that the user take one dose of each supplement daily.
Use CBD in the morning and Lion’s Mane in the afternoon or vice versa. Some people choose to take them one after the other, it is safe and fine either way, whatever suits you and your routine. More research is needed but the anecdotal evidence file builds. Another popular combination is the CBG cannabinoid and this nootropic mushroom.
There are a growing number of research trials undertaken for both functional mushrooms and Cannabidiol, of which positive results can be seen. So, what if you want to add not one but both Lion’s Mane and CBD to your diet? Let’s explore the guidance around adding these dietary supplements to your day and how best to do it.
HOW DOES CBD WORK?
CBD interacts with a system in our bodies called the Endocannabinoid system. This is a network which works to balance the body and control functions such as our sleep cycle, stress responses, pain regulation, hormone regulation and more. Cannabinoids found in the hemp plant mimic the role of natural endocannabinoids which are produced by our brains.
This means when we take CBD Oil and other CBD products, we are adding compounds to our system which support the work of natural endocannabinoids produced in us. These endocannabinoids are not always in balance for reasons such as illness or stress [4].
Adding CBD cannabinoids to your diet daily means you are supporting the supply in your system and helping your whole body to regulate correctly. The same even goes for animals and our beloved pets.
HOW DOES LIONS MANE WORK?
Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) works by stimulating the production of nerve growth factors (NGFs) in the brain, which are needed for the growth and maintenance of neurons. These bioactive compounds, hericenones and erinacines, found in Lion’s Mane mushroom, can cross the blood-brain barrier to promote neural plasticity, enhance cognitive functions, and potentially aid in the repair of nerve damage.
Regular consumption of Lion’s Mane has been associated with improved memory, focus, and overall mental clarity due to its neurotrophic effects. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties contribute to overall brain health, making it a valuable ally against age-related cognitive decline.
Chinese and Japanese medicine also make use of this nootropic mushroom for digestive issues, ulcers, insomnia and more [2].
WHY USE HERICIUM ERINACEUS WITH CBD?
Support your CBD routine with a tried and tested supplement like Lions Mane mushroom. Both supplements work in different ways in the human body which is one reason they can be easily used together. Neither interferes with the other’s work.
CBD usage varies greatly, as does that of Lion’s Mane mushroom. Neither supplement has just one use. CBD is noted in many research studies and clinical trials to help with both the body and mind including help with anxiety, chronic pain and sleep [5].
Lion’s Mane uses are also many which is evident from its use as a treatment option in Eastern medicine practices. This nootropic is beneficial for the health of the brain and according to research it is also beneficial to the function of all vital organs [3].
So maybe the real question we should be asking is, why not use Lion’s Mane mushroom with CBD? We can think of no good answer.
DISCLAIMER: All food supplements mentioned in this article are not intended to be used as a cure or sole treatment of any medical condition. Please contact a professional such as a pharmacist or doctor before adding such supplements to your diet alongside medication.
REFERENCES
- John, F. (2016) Industrial Hemp: Renewed Opportunities for an Ancient Crop, Critical Reviews in Plant Sciences, 35:5-6, 406-424, DOI: 10.1080/07352689.2016.1257842
- Spelman, K. et. al (2017) Neurological Activity of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) Journal of Restorative Medicine, Volume 6, Number 1, 12 March 2017, pp. 19-26(8)
- Khan, M.A. et. al (2013) Hericium erinaceus: an edible mushroom with medicinal values. J Complement Integr Med. 24;10
- Rapin, L. et. al (2021) Cannabidiol use and effectiveness: real-world evidence from a Canadian medical cannabis clinic. J Cannabis Res. 23;3(1):19
- Sholler, D.J. et. al (2020) Therapeutic Efficacy of Cannabidiol (CBD): A Review of the Evidence from Clinical Trials and Human Laboratory Studies. Curr Addict Rep. 2020 Sep;7(3):405-412
