Ninyo, Maya Gina, Zhang, Guoqiang and Zhou, Shaobo ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5214-2973 (2026) Neuroprotective effects of Hericium erinaceus: evidence from experimental and clinical studies: a systematic review and limited meta-analysis. Food as Medicine, 2 (3). ISSN 3083-4082 (Online) (doi:10.53941/fm.2026.100009)

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Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, represent a growing global public health challenge. *Hericium erinaceus* (Lion’s Mane mushroom) has attracted increasing interest for its potential neuroprotective properties. This systematic review and limited meta-analysis evaluated the evidence concerning its effects on outcomes relevant to neurodegenerative diseases. PubMed and Google Scholar were systematically searched for studies published between 2000 and 2026, with reporting guided by PRISMA. Of 1,224 records identified, 23 studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising 12 animal studies, eight in vitro studies and three human clinical trials. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using applicable SYRCLE and Cochrane tools. Experimental studies generally reported neuroprotective effects associated with enhanced nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor signalling, activation of antioxidant defence pathways, including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), suppression of NLRP3 inflammasome activity, reduced oxidative stress and attenuation of neuronal apoptosis. Limited human studies suggested potential improvements in cognitive function and mood. Quantitative synthesis indicated favourable changes in oxidative stress-related biomarkers across experimental studies, although substantial heterogeneity limited the interpretation of pooled findings. Overall, *H. erinaceus* shows promising preclinical neuroprotective potential through interconnected antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neurotrophic and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. However, clinical evidence remains insufficient to establish its efficacy in neurodegenerative diseases. Further adequately powered, rigorously designed randomised controlled trials are required.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Hericium erinaceus, neuroprotection, oxidative stress, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, nutraceuticals
Subjects:	Q Science > Q Science (General) Q Science > QD Chemistry R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Engineering & Science Faculty of Engineering & Science > School of Science (SCI)
Last Modified:	01 Oct 2026 09:31
URI:	https://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/54521

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