

Combine the water extract with the alcohol extract. Strain and compost the mushrooms using a funnel and cheesecloth, reserving the mushroom-infused water.ĩ. You may need to add water to the stock pot throughout the process.Ĩ. Make sure to keep an eye on the water level, as you don’t want it to completely evaporate. Simmer the mushrooms for about 2 hours, until the water has reduced to approximately 8 to 16 ounces. Add the mushrooms from the alcohol extract to the simmering water.Ħ. Next, make a water extract by bringing a half gallon of water to a simmer in a stock pot. After a month, strain mushroom-infused alcohol into another jar and set aside.ĥ. Fill jar with alcohol, completely covering the mushrooms, but leaving about a 1/2 inch of space at the top of the jar. Fill a quart-sized glass jar halfway with dried mushrooms.Ģ. 80 proof or higher alcohol (vodka and brandy are popular choices)ġ.Reishi mushrooms are considered the best source of triterpenes. Triterpenes compounds have revealed anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-tumor, antioxidant, anti-anxiety, immunomodulatory activities, and liver protective effects. Beta-glucans are a form of soluble fiber strongly linked to boosting heart health, improving cholesterol, and regulating blood sugar to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.Oyster and shiitake mushrooms are believed to have the most effective beta glucans. We recommend sautéing on low heat with olive oil and butter.A double extraction will pull out water-soluble beta-glucans and alcohol soluble triterpenes. Once cooked, the fibers of this mushroom are very similar to the texture of meat, which makes this variety a wonderful meat substitute in many dishes. When sautéed with a small amount of olive oil or butter, Lion's Mane transforms into a succulent texture reminiscent of crab or lobster. We think the best way to prepare Lion's Mane is by slicing the clusters into 3/4" "steaks" and sautéing. Texture and Recommended Preparationīefore it's cooked, Lion's Mane has a soft, shaggy texture and very earthy smell. can use Lion’s Mane mushrooms to regrow some of the nerve fibers in the brain and therefore increase their cognitive function. This could mean that patients with cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, MS, etc. Lion’s Mane contains neurotrophic factors called hericenones and erinacines which can induce nerve growth factors essential for optimal brain function. Many of these effects have been observed in mice, but more research must be done on the effects of Lion’s Mane on human subjects to support these claims. Aiding in recovery from nervous system injuries.Relieving symptoms of depression and/or anxiety.Health BenefitsĪnecdotally, Lion’s Mane mushrooms have been said to have a slew of health benefits: This mushroom species has a very unique, meaty texture, and it can be served in a variety of dishes. Many home cooks are initially drawn to this mushroom because of its appearance, but they become dedicated Lion’s Mane fans after tasting its savory and slightly sweet flavor. Its shaggy appearance and bright white- or cream-colored flesh make Lion’s Mane a visual standout. Lion’s Mane has a slew of nicknames, including the pom pom mushroom, the monkey’s head mushroom, and the bearded hedgehog mushroom. This variety is native to North America, Europe, and Asia.

Hericium erinaceus, commonly known as Lion's Mane, is a fuzzy-looking mushroom that grows in large, bulbous clusters.
