- Contains a number of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Reduces certain risk factors for cardiovascular disease and lowers the risk of recurrent heart attacks.
- Beneficial for the prevention of coronary disease and the treatment of depression.
Hericium erinaceus, also known as Lion’s Mane, is an edible mushroom which has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It is rich in exceptional compounds such as β-glucans, polysaccharides associated with lowering blood cholesterol, as well as hericenones which support neuron function.
In China, where it originated, it’s called "hóu tóu gū" and in Japan, "yamabushitake". A highly unusual mushroom that resembles a long white beard or lion’s mane, its use in Chinese medicine dates back to the Han dynasty, 200 years BC, a period when it was already considered to have extraordinary medicinal properties.
In recent years, as interest in traditional remedies has grown, a number of scientific studies have confirmed its traditionally-recognised therapeutic benefits and have highlighted a remarkable physiological property: Lion’s Mane protects, optimises and repairs the nervous system.
The most exciting potential offered by H. erinaceus relates to neuron activity. Studies show that extracts of Hericium erinaceus mushrooms are able to increase the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) (6), a neuropeptide known for its key role in neuron growth and survival (7-9), particularly in the part of the brain responsible for memory-processing called the hippocampus. This effect is due to the properties of hericenones of which Lion’s Mane has a guaranteed content.
NGF is a protein involved in regulating the growth, proliferation and survival of central and peripheral neurons. It plays a role in numerous mechanisms:
NGF is a peptide produced by a large number of cells such as those of the immune system, but production declines with age and in the presence of certain disease states. Unfortunately, NGF cannot be used in a treatment or preventative capacity as it is unable to cross the blood-brain barrier. We therefore have to rely on natural compounds with a lower molecular weight (which can cross this barrier) that promote NGF synthesis within the body. That’s exactly what the hericenones in Lion’s Mane do.
Several studies have demonstrated the effects of H. erinaceus on mental efficacy in people with cognitive problems (33) and its use in dementia, cognitive dysfunction and memory problems (10). It seems that it acts primarily as a nootropic and that it’s necessary to take a supplement in order to maintain the effect.
1) Cardioprotective effects. As indicated by traditional Chinese medicine, H. erinaceus offers benefits for cardiovascular health. Its lipid-lowering effect is due to the action of the polymers it produces. When administered orally, these natural compounds are able to reduce blood levels of LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides, and increase those of HDL-cholesterol. It’s thought that polymers may also play a role in modulating the expression of a gene involved in lipid metabolism (5).
2) Antioxidant effects. Oxidative stress plays a key role in many pathologies including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases (12). Oxidative stress is the result of an imbalance in pro-oxidative and antioxidant agents but can be inhibited, thus helping to prevent irreparable damage to the body, by consuming plenty of antioxidant-rich foods or by taking supplements. Extract of Hericium erinaceus is one such supplement, as it can neutralise free radicals and prevent cell membrane peroxidation (13), a process involved in ageing. These effects are due to its phenolic compounds (14) and polysaccharides (15).
3) Support for stomach health. Several years ago, a study demonstrated the benefits of Hericium erinaceus in relieving stomach ache (16), an effect believed to be related to its saponin content.
Daily dose: 3 capsules Number of doses per pack: 30 |
Amount |
Extract of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) 8:1 standardised to 30% polysaccharides | 1500 mg |
Other ingredients: Acacia gum, rice flour. |
Our dietary supplement Super DHA has been specifically formulated to provide docosahexaenoic acid, commonly known as DHA. Numerous scientific studies have been published on this substance – indeed, DHA is one of the most established of the omega-3 fatty acids. The body needs omega-3 fatty acids, often referred to as ‘good fats', in order to function properly. They are also considered essential – in other words, they must be ingested from the diet as the body is unable to produce them.
In the case of DHA, this means eating foods rich in omega-3s such as oily fish. However, dietary sources may not provide sufficient levels, hence the development of a number of omega-3-rich supplements. In order to offer the best possible omega-3 supplement, our teams have been working to develop an innovative formulation that combines DHA with another form of omega-3: eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA. Following extensive testing, the result is this new Super DHA supplement, offering a complete omega-3 solution.
Deciding to supplement with DHA is not an insignificant choice. This omega-3 has been studied since the 1970s for its many benefits to human health. Scientists believe it plays numerous roles within the body. It is particularly involved in several key functions in the brain, nervous system, cardiovascular system and retina. Omega-3 contributes to:
In addition to supporting normal body function, DHA has aroused scientific interest for its health-promoting properties. A number of studies have been conducted on the benefits of omega-3s in preventing and treating certain disorders. Supplementation with DHA and EPA, also available to buy at Supersmart, has demonstrated promising results for:
As a result of these effects, it seems omega-3 is particularly important for preventing certain forms of cardiovascular disease, including coronary diseases. Other studies have shown that omega-3 supplementation may offer benefits in lowering the risk of recurrent heart attacks, improving depression and reducing symptoms associated with the menopause and psoriasis.
In order to offer the best possible omega-3 product, our Super DHA supplement is produced from a high quality fish oil obtained from several different fish species (sardines, mackerel and anchovies) selected for their naturally high content in omega-3 fatty acids. These premium fish also have Friend of the Sea certification, meaning they come from sustainable fisheries that conform to strict criteria with guaranteed management of fishing quotas. Located along the coasts of Peru and Chile, these clean fishing zones are free from industrial contamination.
A molecular distillation process further enhances the quality of our omega-3 supplement. This innovative technique not only removes all traces of contaminants (mercury, lead, arsenic) but also provides an optimal DHA concentration. This produces a fish oil standardised to 50% DHA and 10% EPA. To ensure maximum benefit from these omega-3s, the DHA and EPA are delivered in softgels, with a recommended dose of one to two softgels per meal. This dose can be adapted according to your needs and the advice of your therapist. You can buy this complete DHA formulation today, with our easy, on-line ordering system and extensive worldwide delivery options.
Buy Super DHA to support cardiovascular health.
Daily dose : 6 softgels Number of doses per box : 15 |
Amount per dose |
Standardised fish oil
[50% docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (around 1,860 mg) and 10% eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (around 258 mg)] |
4 320 mg |
Other ingredients: D-alpha-tocopherol. |
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