
Can Hericium erinaceus treat stomach diseases?
My mother has always had stomach problems. Recently, she saw someone on TV saying that eating Hericium erinaceus (lion's mane mushroom) can cure stomach ailments, and she asked me to buy some for her. I'm a bit skeptical. Can Hericium erinaceus actually treat stomach diseases?

Hericium erinaceus (lion's mane mushroom) has certain auxiliary therapeutic effects for stomach diseases, but it cannot completely cure them.
Hericium erinaceus contains various nutritional components, such as polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and protease inhibitors. It can form a protective layer on the surface of the gastric mucosa, helping to protect the mucosa and reduce irritation caused by gastric acid, thereby alleviating discomfort symptoms such as stomach pain and bloating. In addition, Hericium erinaceus can aid digestion, regulate gastric acid secretion, and possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help improve the gastric environment and reduce gastric inflammation.
Although Hericium erinaceus has certain auxiliary therapeutic effects for stomach diseases, it cannot completely replace standard medical treatments. If you suffer from a stomach condition, you should seek timely medical attention and follow your doctor's instructions to use medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated tablets, lansoprazole tablets, or pantoprazole enteric-coated tablets. Meanwhile, when consuming Hericium erinaceus, you should also pay attention to moderation, as excessive consumption may cause indigestion. It should be thoroughly cooked before eating to facilitate nutrient absorption and prevent digestive issues. Individuals with allergies should avoid consuming Hericium erinaceus.