Effects of Hericium Erinaceus on Microbiota and Cognition

Hericium erinaceus, a well-known edible mushroom, has numerous biological activities. Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) is a mushroom that grows on both living and dead broadleaf trees. Yamabushitake is used as food in Japan and China. Hericenones and erinacines stimulate nerve growth factor synthesis, and therefore it is expected that H. erinaceus have some effects on brain functions and autonomic nervous system. Hericium was tested in several applications, such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, neuropathy and neurasthenia. The ancient Chinese knew about these possibilities and used it to support mental functions and memory, concentration. It is also very good for various digestive problems, such as gastritis, stomach ulcers, heartburn, reflux and improvement of digestion.

Therefore, the aim of our study is to evaluate the effects of Hericium erinaceus on microbiota, cognition and related parameters in elderly. The stool samples will be taken at baseline and after ten weeks of daily consumption of Hericium erinaceus or placebo. In addition, cognitive tests, anthropometric measurements, and blood analysis (lipid profile, glucose levels and neurotrophic factors) will be measured at the same time points.