Mushroom · Compound

Hericenone C

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

Hericenone C is a benzaldehyde derivative extracted from Lion's Mane mushroom that stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis. This bioactive compound promotes neuronal survival and regeneration while reducing neuroinflammation through cytokine inhibition.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryMushroom

GroupCompound

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary KeywordHericenone C benefits

Hericenone C close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory

Hericenone C — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Promotes nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis, essential for neuron survival and cognitive health. This supports memory and learning processes. - Exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, which may reduce neuroinflammation. This helps protect against cognitive decline. - Acts as a neuroprotectant by reducing oxidative stress in brain cells. Protecting neurons from damage enhances overall brain function. - Supports synaptic plasticity, crucial for learning and memory formation. Enhanced synaptic connections lead to improved cognitive abilities. - May improve mood by influencing serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter linked to happiness. Balanced serotonin levels can enhance emotional well-being. - Enhances cerebral blood flow, ensuring adequate oxygen and nutrient delivery to brain tissues. Improved blood flow supports mental clarity and focus. - Reduces amyloid-beta accumulation, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. Lower levels of amyloid-beta can decrease the risk of neurodegenerative disorders.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Hericenone C is a benzaldehyde derivative found in the fruiting body of the Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus). It is extracted through solvent extraction methods, focusing on the mushroom's bioactive compounds.

“Lion's Mane has been traditionally used in East Asian medicine to enhance mental clarity and support cognitive function, with Hericenone C contributing to these effects.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Hericenone C has been studied in vitro and in animal models for its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects. Human studies are limited but suggest potential benefits for brain health.

Preparation & Dosage

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

Nutritional Profile

- Contains benzaldehyde derivatives with neuroprotective properties. - Rich in polysaccharides that support immune function. - Provides essential vitamins and minerals for brain health.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Hericenone C activates the NGF synthesis pathway by upregulating neurotrophin production in neurons and glial cells. It inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-1β through NF-κB pathway modulation. The compound crosses the blood-brain barrier to directly stimulate neuronal growth and differentiation.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Research on Hericenone C is primarily limited to in vitro and animal studies, with few human clinical trials available. Laboratory studies demonstrate significant NGF synthesis enhancement at concentrations of 10-50 μg/mL in neuronal cell cultures. Animal studies using 50-100 mg/kg doses showed improved cognitive performance and reduced neuroinflammation markers. Human clinical evidence remains preliminary and requires larger-scale trials to establish therapeutic efficacy.

Also Known As

2-Hydroxy-3-hydroxymethyl-4-methoxybenzaldehydeLion's Mane derivativeYamabushitake compoundMonkey Head mushroom extractHericenone IIIPom Pom mushroom bioactiveBearded Tooth compound

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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.

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