We find ourselves in an era where the demand on our mental output is far greater than ever before. When our brains are overstimulated with distraction and noise, we can often find ourselves mentally exhausted and in a state where decision making and creative thinking proves challenging. Being the superconductors of our bodies, if our cognitive function is suffering so does the rest of our physical being, with symptoms such as fatigue, broken sleep, low libido, and unregulated emotions often arising.
Key to our longevity, healthy brain function opens the door to our highest potential mentally and physically and this desire for optimal performance has seen the popularity of nootropics rise to new heights.
Nootropics are substances that improve cognitive function, memory, creativity or motivation in healthy individuals in addition to strengthening bodily systems against cognitive decline. Derived from the Greek words 'nous' (mind) and 'trepein' (to bend or turn), nootropics are thought to help optimise the functions of our mind.
Nootropics come in two classes, natural and synthetic. Many of the synthetic or pharmaceutical nootropics, often called smart drugs, come with immediate gratification for many, but studies are increasingly finding they may result in addiction, brain fog, migraines and even insomnia.
On the other hand, natural nootropics come with all of the benefits and none of the unwanted side effects. Natural nootropics are famed for boosting circulation to the brain and supporting nerve growth keeping the mind clear and focused and improving memory, mood and creative output. Two medicinal mushrooms in our range are known brain-boosters and are classed as natural nootropics, Lion’s Mane and Tremella.
Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane mushroom has long been considered a natural cognitive enhancer being referred to as ‘nature’s nutrient for the neurons,’[1] It’s Lion’s Mane’s potential benefits for the brain that make it a truly fascinating shroom. Studies have demonstrated that Lion’s Mane may support brain health by stimulating nerve growth factor (NGF)[2]. NGF proteins protect existing neurons and stimulate new neuron growth which has been linked to increased focus, mental clarity, and creativity as well as supporting a positive mood[3].
Tremella
Lion's Mane often receives the most praise as the ultimate brain-boosting shroom, however, Tremella is not to be overlooked with its own raft of brain supporting benefits. A 2007 study[4] clinically examined Tremella Fuciformis and its neuroprotective effects, finding that the polysaccharides and beta-d-glucans unique to Tremella mushroom promote brain cell growth and have the potential to enhance cognition.
Live Longer, Think Smarter
We recently connected with our friends at Ageless By Rescu to share knowledge on the brain supporting benefits of Lion’s Mane and Tremella and our adaptogenic Day Blend which contains both of these mushies, and also contribute our broader perspective on preventative versus curative healthcare and the place of medicinal mushrooms as part of this movement. Here’s a small excerpt from the piece:
As Tara points out, much of their rise to fame in recent times comes from a global shift from reactive to proactive health. “With growing awareness of the burdens that modern living can place on us physically, spiritually and emotionally, the benefits of preventive versus curative healthcare are growing. Medicinal mushrooms as adaptogens can support the body and its general resistance to stress,’’ she says. “By bringing our body closer to a state of homeostasis we’re better able to move through stressful situations, certain physical states as they arise and before they accumulate, potentiating our health and longevity.”
~ Tara Seymour, Inner Atlas
Dive into Ageless By Rescu’s feature Live Longer, Think Smarter[5], by Noelle Faulkner, a fascinating exploration of nootropics and their ability to enhance focus, concentration, memory and performance. Feel free to leave us a note below with any questions or comments. We’d love to hear your thoughts.
Image: Smack Bang Designs & Lucy Alcorn.
References:
[1] https://www.amazon.com/Medicinal-Mushrooms-Clinical-Martin-Powell/dp/0956689809
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24266378/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20834180/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3763079/
[5] https://magazine.rescu.com.au/issue-2/live-longer-think-smarter/
