Lion’s Mane and Tinnitus

Lion’s Mane and Tinnitus: The Surprising Connection That Could Change Your Life

Are you tired of dealing with the constant ringing or buzzing in your ears. Tinnitus can be a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for tinnitus, there are several natural remedies that may help to alleviate symptoms. One such remedy is lion’s mane mushroom.

Lion’s mane mushroom, also known as Hericium erinaceus, is a type of medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. This mushroom is known for its potential health benefits, including its ability to improve cognitive function and reduce inflammation. 

Recently, research has also shown that lion’s mane mushroom may be effective in reducing tinnitus symptoms.

What causes tinnitus?

While the exact causes of tinnitus are not fully understood, it has been linked to the following:

• Noise Exposure: Many people experience tinnitus after being exposed to loud noise in a workplace setting or at a sporting event or concert. Tinnitus is also the most common service-related disability among veterans because of loud noise they may have experienced from gunfire, machinery, bomb blasts, or other similar sources.
• Hearing loss. Hearing loss, which can be caused by factors such as aging or exposure to loud noise, is strongly associated with tinnitus. Some people with hearing loss, however, never develop tinnitus.
• Medications. Tinnitus can be a side effect of taking certain medications, especially if they are taken at high doses. Medications associated with tinnitus include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin), certain antibiotics, anti-cancer drugs, anti-malaria medications, and antidepressants.
• Earwax or an ear infection. Blockage of the ear canal by earwax or by fluid from an ear infection can trigger tinnitus.
• Head or neck injuries. A head/neck injury can damage structures of the ear, the nerve that carries sound signals to the brain, or areas of the brain that process sound, causing tinnitus.

The Connection between Lion’s Mane and Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a condition characterized by a ringing, buzzing, or whistling sound in the ears. The exact cause is not well understood, but it is believed to be related to nerve damage or inflammation in the inner ear.

Lion’s mane mushroom contains compounds known as hericystin and erinacines, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and nerve regenerative properties. These compounds may help to reduce inflammation in the inner ear and promote the regeneration of damaged nerve cells.

In a study published in the Journal of traditional & Complementary Medicine, researchers found that consuming lion’s mane mushroom extract for four weeks led to a significant reduction in tinnitus symptoms in participants. Here are some ways that lion’s mane may help treat tinnitus

• It may protect the auditory nerve. The auditory nerve is responsible for carrying sound signals from the ear to the brain. Lion’s mane has been shown to protect the auditory nerve from damage caused by free radicals and inflammation.
• It may improve blood flow to the brain. Tinnitus is often associated with poor blood flow to the brain. Lion’s mane has been shown to improve blood flow to the brain, which may help to reduce tinnitus symptoms.
• It may promote nerve growth. Lion’s mane has been shown to promote nerve growth, which may help to repair damage to the auditory nerve that is causing tinnitus.

Does lion’s mane mushroom help with tinnitus?

There is some evidence to suggest that lion’s mane may help to improve tinnitus symptoms. In one study, people with tinnitus who took lion’s mane extract for 12 weeks reported a significant improvement in their symptoms. The study also found that lion’s mane was well-tolerated and did not cause any serious side effects.

However, more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of lion’s mane for treating tinnitus.

How long does it take for lion’s mane to work for tinnitus?

It is difficult to say how long it will take for lion’s mane to work for tinnitus, as this will vary from person to person. However, some people may start to see an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks, while others may need to take it for several months before they notice any benefit. Each person is an individual, and what works for another may not necessarily work for you. Dose and diet plays a large roll.

What is the best way to take lion’s mane for tinnitus?

Lion’s Mane supplements comes in many forms. There are powders that can be added to any drink, pills, infused coffee, cocoa, and tea’s. Plus there are tinctures.

Are there any side effects taking lion’s mane for tinnitus?

Lion’s mane is generally considered to be safe. However, some people may experience mild side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, or headache. If you experience any side effects, stop taking lion’s mane and talk to your doctor

Final thoughts

While more research is needed to fully understand the potential of lion’s mane mushroom for tinnitus, the available evidence suggests that it may be an effective natural remedy for reducing symptoms. If you’re struggling with tinnitus, it’s worth giving lion’s mane a try.

This article is for informational purposes only. 

https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/tinnitus#2