Mushroom · Compound

Erinacine A

Provisional Moderate Scorecompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Erinacine A is a cyathane diterpenoid compound from Lion's Mane mushroom that crosses the blood-brain barrier to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis. This bioactive compound supports neuronal maintenance, cognitive function, and may help protect against neurodegenerative conditions.

—

Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryMushroom

GroupCompound

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keyworderinacine A benefits

Erinacine A close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in neurotrophic, neuroprotective, antioxidant

Erinacine A — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Enhances nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis, crucial for brain cell maintenance and cognitive function. By boosting NGF, it supports memory retention and learning abilities. - Reduces inflammation through modulation of cytokine production, which can alleviate symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases. This helps maintain neural health and function. - Exhibits antioxidant properties that protect neurons from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of cognitive decline. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, preserving brain health. - Supports neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This is vital for learning and adapting to new information. - Promotes myelination, the process of forming a protective sheath around nerves, enhancing signal transmission. Improved myelination can lead to better cognitive performance. - May improve mood and reduce anxiety by modulating neurotransmitter levels. Balanced neurotransmitters contribute to emotional stability. - Enhances overall brain energy metabolism, ensuring efficient energy use by brain cells. This supports sustained mental clarity and focus.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Erinacine A is a cyathane diterpenoid compound found in the Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus). It is extracted using ethanol or methanol extraction techniques from the mushroom's mycelium.

“Lion's Mane has been used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries to support brain health and enhance cognitive function.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Erinacine A has been studied in vitro and in animal models for its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects. Human trials are limited but show promising results for cognitive health.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Contains diterpenoids that support neurological health. - Rich in polysaccharides with immune-modulating effects. - Provides essential amino acids and antioxidants.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Erinacine A crosses the blood-brain barrier and activates the TrkA receptor pathway, leading to increased synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF) in brain tissue. It modulates inflammatory responses by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-1β while promoting anti-inflammatory pathways. The compound also enhances neuronal survival through activation of PI3K/Akt signaling cascades.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Current research on erinacine A is primarily based on animal studies and in vitro experiments. Rodent studies have shown 50-300mg/kg doses can increase NGF levels by 20-40% and improve cognitive performance in memory tests. A small human pilot study with 30 participants showed modest improvements in cognitive assessments after 8 weeks of Lion's Mane extract containing erinacines. However, large-scale randomized controlled trials specifically isolating erinacine A effects are still needed to establish clinical efficacy in humans.

Also Known As

Hericium erinaceusLion's Mane mushroomYamabushitakeBearded tooth mushroomPom pom mushroomMonkey head mushroomHoutou

Browse All Ingredients More Compound About the Encyclopedia

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

From the Hermetica Research Desk

Research updates — and 25% off your first order

Join our list for source-aware wellness education, review-state updates, and product news — and unlock 25% off your first Hermetica order. Educational content is not medical advice. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

Educational content only — not medical advice.