<h3>Sea buckthorn: a most vibrant berry</h3><p>First things first – what exactly is this hair-friendly, marine-sounding ingredient? Despite its name, the <a href="https://erbology.co/sea-buckthorn-faqs/" target="_blank">sea buckthorn</a> plant does grow on land. It fares well in dry, windy environments, and you’ll find the shrub across northern Europe and parts of Asia. It has narrow, silver-green leaves, tiny flowers, and small, bright orange berries with a tart and tropical flavour. In addition to harnessing sea buckthorn benefits for hair, people have been using this nutrient-rich ingredient medicinally for generations.</p><p>Sea buckthorn berries are surprisingly versatile. Most obviously, you can eat them raw – although many people find they taste a little too sour for their liking! More palatable options include <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-dried-sea-buckthorn-berries/" target="_blank">dried sea buckthorn berries</a>, as well as sea buckthorn oil, juice, and powder. While they have similar wellness benefits, each has its own nutritional and practical advantages. All of which means there are several ways for you to get your sea buckthorn benefits for hair.</p><p>The two principal methods you can employ are applying the ingredient topically and adding it to your diet. We’ll look at both in turn, starting with the specific sea buckthorn benefits for hair they offer. Then we’ll show you how to use the different types of sea buckthorn for hair health.</p><h3>Topical benefits of sea buckthorn oil for hair</h3><p>When we talk about applying sea buckthorn directly to your hair and scalp, it’s specifically the oil we’re referring to. So, why is sea buckthorn oil good for hair when used this way? Well, this fabulous red-orange liquid is bursting with potent phytonutrients that can support the health of your tresses. These include various omega fatty acids, antioxidant compounds, and several vitamins and minerals.</p><p>For example, studies show that the oil contains lipids like lecithin that help to remove excess oil from your hair.(1) Another of the many potential sea buckthorn benefits for hair is that the oil can aid in repairing damaged locks. It could restore its elasticity and give strands a smoother texture. The fact that it supports the structure of hair in this way has led some to speculate that it could be useful in preventing hair loss, too. However, further investigation is necessary to confirm this theory.</p><p>What’s more, sea buckthorn oil is renowned for its <a href="https://erbology.co/sea-buckthorn-skin-benefits/" target="_blank">ability to promote skin health</a>. Research has found that the nutrients it contains help to support cell regeneration and protect the integrity of your skin.(2) As such, the oil could alleviate symptoms of dry and scaly skin, and ease issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.</p><p>This translates into potential sea buckthorn benefits for hair because the health of your scalp affects that of your tresses. Studies have linked conditions like dandruff and dermatitis on your scalp with hair breakage, rougher hair texture, and reduced shine.(3) In severe cases, poor scalp health may even lead to hair loss. As such, this is one of the many sea buckthorn oil benefits for hair that you shouldn’t underestimate.</p><h3>How to use sea buckthorn oil for hair topically</h3><p>Let’s move on to the practical question of how to get these sea buckthorn oil benefits for hair. Happily, you have a couple of different options, both of which are relatively simple.</p><p>First, you can massage a few drops of the oil directly onto your scalp. Leave it to work its magic for a few hours or even overnight, then wash your hair. This is a great method for supporting hair health by treating skin issues in that area, like itching or dryness. One factor to consider when trying it is that sea buckthorn oil retains the bright orange colour of the berry. Therefore, to avoid staining, we recommend diluting it with a carrier oil – such as coconut or almond – before use.</p><p>As a bonus, the act of massaging the oil into your scalp could enhance these sea buckthorn benefits for hair. That’s because it can increase circulation in the area, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to your follicles. And by stretching dermal papilla cells in the follicles, it might even help reduce hair loss and boost hair thickness.(4)</p><p>Another technique is to add a few drops of the oil to your normal shampoo or conditioner. You can also mix a little into treatments like hair masks. This enables you to get your sea buckthorn benefits for hair during your usual washing and styling routine. Plus, it’s a good option if you’re interested in the ingredient’s ability to remove excess oil and support hair structure.</p><p>We suggest trying both methods of harnessing sea buckthorn benefits for hair topically to see which works best for you.</p>

<h3>Nutritional benefits of sea buckthorn for hair</h3><p>Thanks to its impressive nutritional profile, adding sea buckthorn to your diet can also support the health of your hair. For instance, the berry is an excellent source of vitamin C, which cares for your tresses in several ways. First, it promotes the production of <a href="https://erbology.co/collagen-supplements-work/" target="_blank">collagen</a>, which is a protein crucial for hair growth. Collagen improves the elasticity and strength of your skin, too, which might help to reduce hair loss.</p><p>Second, vitamin C enhances the body’s ability to absorb iron – a mineral also found in sea buckthorn. This lowers the risk of iron deficiency anaemia, which experts have linked to hair loss.</p><p>Third, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant. That means it protects our cells – including those in our hair follicles – from damage caused by free radicals.(5) Along with the other antioxidant compounds in sea buckthorn, it can additionally stave off signs of ageing. This includes the possibility of delaying the appearance of grey hairs.(6) However, we need further investigation to clarify if this is one of the genuine sea buckthorn benefits for hair.</p><p>As we mentioned above, sea buckthorn is rich in omega fatty acids, such as palmitoleic acid and linoleic acid.(7) These are just as potent when ingested as when used topically, helping to increase hair shine and growth.</p><p>Other nutritional sea buckthorn benefits for hair are due to its high levels of vitamin E. This also functions as an antioxidant, supporting scalp health and possibly lessening the risk or severity of hair loss.(8) Similarly, it’s a fantastic source of <a href="https://erbology.co/beta-carotene" target="_blank">beta-carotene</a>, an antioxidant that the body converts to vitamin A. The latter influences the production of sebum, a natural oil that contributes to hair health.(9)</p><h3>How to take sea buckthorn for hair health</h3><p>With such a variety of products available, getting sea buckthorn benefits for hair through your diet is easy. And thanks to the berry’s tangy taste, they all make delicious additions to your day.</p><p>One of the easiest options is to start your morning with a zesty and refreshing <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-sea-buckthorn-shots/" target="_blank">sea buckthorn shot</a>. The flavour might remind you of sour orange with notes of pineapple and gooseberry. Each bottle contains more than your daily target of vitamin C. Plus, their small size makes them a convenient choice before work or on the go. Alternatively, add a few tablespoons of <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-sea-buckthorn-juice/" target="_blank">sea buckthorn juice</a> to a glass of sparkling water or your favourite smoothie recipes.</p><p>When it comes to the oil, we talked above about harnessing sea buckthorn benefits for hair by using it topically. However, you can also use this ingredient in a variety of recipes. Try adding 20-40 drops to yoghurt, a breakfast bowl, juices, smoothies, or porridge. It has a sweet, botanical flavour that pairs well with a wide range of other ingredients. Just remember that it doesn’t like to be heated, so avoid cooking with it. Instead, sprinkle a little over a finished meal before tucking in.</p><p>Finally, you can get your sea buckthorn benefits for hair by adding it to meals in powder form. Its sharp citrus taste makes it a welcome ingredient in everything from breakfast bowls and smoothies to soups and stews. And, unlike many supplements, you won’t find any bulking agents, artificial preservatives, or capsule casings with animal-derived ingredients. Just an array of nutrients working synergistically to support the health of your tresses.</p><h3>Say hello to our sea buckthorn</h3><p>Whichever way you decide to get your sea buckthorn benefits for hair, it’s important to choose a top-quality product. That’s why we searched high and low to find the very best suppliers of these nutrient-dense berries. We source our sea buckthorn directly from independent, sustainable farmers in Eastern Europe. They cultivate the plants using organic methods, then pick the berries by hand during the annual harvest season in August.</p><p>What happens next depends on which type of sea buckthorn product you’re asking about. For our sea buckthorn drinks, the team immediately freezes the berries and then juices them in small batches to order. For our <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-sea-buckthorn-powder/" target="_blank">sea buckthorn powder</a>, they gently dry the berries, separate them from the seeds, then crush them. Removing the seeds first ensures that the powder is especially high in nutrients like omega-7, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. As such, you have a greater chance of enjoying the sea buckthorn benefits for hair we’ve discussed in this post.</p><p>Finally, we have our <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-sea-buckthorn-berry-oil/" target="_blank">sea buckthorn berry oil</a>. It takes around 50kg of fresh berries to make one litre of the oil. We cold-press the berries to extract it, without the use of chemicals or excessive heat. This helps to preserve the precious nutrients they contain and maximise your potential sea buckthorn oil benefits for hair. For example, our oil contains approximately 37g of omega-7 fatty acids per 100g.</p><p>We ship all our sea buckthorn products to you in environmentally friendly glass containers. Please recycle them once they’re empty to look after the planet as well as care for your hair!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><h3>Beyond hair and skincare: other benefits of sea buckthorn</h3><p>We’ve focused on sea buckthorn benefits for hair in this article. However, adding the ingredient to your diet could support your wellbeing in many other ways, too. And we don’t just mean the advantages for skin health we’ve already mentioned! Here’s a very quick overview.</p><p>One notable benefit of taking sea buckthorn is that it could help to promote cardiovascular health. That’s because the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory plant compounds it contains may lower the risk of heart disease. Studies have found that sea buckthorn oil can decrease blood pressure and levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.(10) These effects were especially significant in people who had hypertension and high cholesterol.</p><p>Sea buckthorn might also be useful for <a href="https://erbology.co/diet-menopause/" target="_blank">easing some of the symptoms of menopause</a>. As an example, research indicates that the oil may alleviate dryness and vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women.(11)</p><p>Because sea buckthorn is rich in beta-carotene and omega-7 fatty acids, it can support eye health too. As we mentioned above, the body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A – a key nutrient for vision. It helps us to see more clearly in low light and protects against conditions like cataracts. Studies have also found that sea buckthorn oil aids in relieving the symptoms of dry eyes.(2)</p><p>That’s a lot of potential advantages beyond sea buckthorn benefits for hair – all in one tiny berry!</p><h3>Final thoughts on using sea buckthorn for hair health</h3><p>While research into sea buckthorn benefits for hair is still relatively sparse, the results so far are positive. This nutrient-rich ingredient could help to nourish your locks through both topical use and by including it in your diet.</p><p>Of course, it’s important to note that you can’t expect to see these sea buckthorn benefits for hair overnight. Try using it topically one or twice a week for a couple of months, and see if you notice any improvement. Likewise, be patient and consistent when adding the ingredient to your diet.</p><p>We also recommend pairing the use of the berry with other techniques for enhancing the condition of your tresses. These include not subjecting it to overly hot temperatures, being gentle when styling, and using a microfibre towel. The bottom line? Be kind to your hair and it will be kind to you!</p>

“Possible sea buckthorn benefits for hair include supporting its structure and texture, plus nourishing the scalp.”

Sea Buckthorn for Healthy Hair: Top Benefits - Erbology

In this post, we're exploring some of the potential sea buckthorn benefits for hair. We’ll look at how this ingredient could support the health of your locks as well as nourish your scalp. Plus, we’ve got some handy tips on how to add it to your diet and haircare routine.

Sea buckthorn for healthy hair: top benefits

<h3>All about aloe vera</h3><p>Before asking ‘is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy?’, we should talk about the plant itself. Aloe vera is a type of succulent, with thick, fleshy leaves that store water. Succulents adapted to survive in tough, arid environments prone to drought. This makes them relatively easy houseplants to look after, as they’ll forgive you for forgetting to water them! You can recognise aloe vera by its long, spiky, grey-green leaves, which grow in a rosette shape and feel almost waxy. It also has clusters of tube-like yellow flowers that bloom from a central stem.</p><p>However, aloe vera is more than simply a low-maintenance addition to your home. People have been using the plant medicinally for hundreds of years. In fact, Ancient Egyptians referred to it as ‘the plant of immortality’ – Cleopatra even used it in her beauty routine.(1) And the use of aloe vera for health purposes continues to this day. So, it’s only natural to want to know is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy.</p><p>You’ll notice we’re focusing on aloe vera juice. That’s because it’s this, as well as a thicker gel version, that comprises most aloe vera products. You get aloe vera juice from the plant’s leaves, with both whole leaf and inner leaf juices available. We’ll explain below why we recommend inner leaf juice, but first, let’s talk about the benefits of the ingredient. Is aloe vera drink good for pregnancy? What about other conditions? Prior to asking is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy, it’s important to understand why you’d want to take it. Here’s how the plant could support wellbeing.</p><h3>The wellness benefits of aloe vera juice</h3><p>There are two ways that you can use aloe vera: orally and topically. To begin with, we’re going to focus on the <a href="https://erbology.co/aloe-vera-health-benefits/" target="_blank">advantages of drinking aloe vera juice</a>. Then we’ll consider the question ‘is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy?’.</p><p>Aloe vera is bursting with potent plant compounds that support wellness. These include polyphenols that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect us against oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.(2) Research has linked both to numerous harmful health conditions, so this is a wide-ranging potential advantage of the plant.</p><p>In addition, aloe vera contains polysaccharides such as acemannan, which research indicates could benefit wellbeing in several ways. For instance, studies have revealed that acemannan may support the immune system by activating immune cells like macrophages.(3) Experts also believe that it acts as a prebiotic, nourishing the good bacteria in your gut.(4) This has potential benefits for everything from immunity to brain health and even mood.</p><p>Consuming aloe vera might aid your digestive system in other ways too. Some studies have found that the plant helps to ease symptoms of conditions like <a href="https://erbology.co/irritable-bowel-syndrome/" target="_blank">irritable bowel syndrome</a> and acid reflux.(5) Further investigation is necessary to confirm these findings though.</p><p>Research also suggests that drinking aloe vera juice assists with blood glucose management. Trials have shown the ingredient can improve blood sugar levels and blood fatty acid levels in people with pre-diabetes.(6) However, results on its benefits for those who already have diabetes have been mixed.</p><p>Interestingly, aloe vera may be beneficial for your dental health thanks to its antibacterial properties. Studies have even shown that it can be as effective as chemically formulated mouthwashes.(7)</p><p>So far, so impressive. But is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy?</p><h3>Is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy?</h3><p>Here’s where things get complicated. Underneath the outer rind of aloe vera leaves is a yellow, sap-like substance called latex. This has a different chemical composition to aloe vera juice. It contains anthraquinones, compounds which give the substance a bitter taste and laxative properties. This latex can also cause digestive discomfort in some people.(8) As such, opinions are mixed on whether it’s okay to use whole leaf aloe vera juice for issues like constipation.</p><p>So, how does this relate to the question ‘is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy?’ Well, research has linked anthraquinones with an increased incidence of uterine contractions, which can raise the risk of miscarriage.(8) As a result, you should not consume whole leaf aloe vera juice if you’re pregnant. Similarly, you should also avoid the drink if you’re breastfeeding. This is because anthraquinones can pass to your baby through your milk, and potentially cause them to experience gastrointestinal issues.</p><p>It's worth noting that these problems are specifically related to whole leaf aloe vera juice. That’s because these products contain the latex part of the plant, where you find anthraquinones. With inner leaf aloe vera juice, on the other hand, producers remove the latex and outer rind.</p><p>This means the answer to the question ‘is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy?’ depends on which juice you’re drinking. The dangers of aloe vera during pregnancy are associated with whole leaf juice. Conversely, inner leaf juice may offer some wellness benefits. However, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, we strongly advise speaking to a medical professional before consuming any aloe vera product. This will help you make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.</p><h3>The benefits of using aloe vera topically</h3><p>Up to now, we’ve concentrated on the benefits and risks of drinking aloe vera juice while pregnant. But what about using it topically? Is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy if you apply it to your skin? And what are the potential advantages of doing so?</p><p>Aloe vera is something of a superstar when it comes to skincare. For example, the ingredient is renowned for its ability to soothe mild burns, including sunburn.(9) Evidence suggests it can help these wounds heal more quickly and successfully. This may be due to its anti-inflammatory properties, and because its polysaccharides work to stimulate skin growth and repair. It could even reduce the pain of burns as it does so.</p><p>In addition, aloe vera functions as a moisturiser, reducing dry skin and signs of ageing. In findings specifically relevant to pregnancy, evidence indicates that aloe vera helps prevent the itching and progression of stretch marks.(10)&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>What’s really interesting is that drinking aloe vera juice can also benefit skin health. Adding the plant to your diet could promote collagen production and lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.(11) However, due to the concerns around the question of is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy, topical use is advisable.</p><p>Applying aloe vera topically might also support the health of your hair. One reason for this is that its anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties could reduce dry skin and irritation on your scalp. What’s more, the ingredient can gently cleanse your hair shafts to remove excess oil and residue from other hair products. That’s particularly beneficial for those who have oily hair. Simply massage aloe vera into your scalp, leave for about 30 minutes, then rinse and style your tresses as normal.</p><h3>Can you use aloe vera topically when pregnant?</h3><p>So, we know that aloe vera can have a positive effect on your skin. However, is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy when applied topically? Thankfully, here the answer is more straightforward. Experts agree that using aloe vera on your skin in moderation is safe when pregnant and breastfeeding.(12) Of course, you should still take care to follow the instructions on your chosen product and not use too much. And we always recommend you speak to a doctor first. This will help to ensure that the ingredient is suitable for you and your individual needs.</p><p>Still uncomfortable using the ingredient because of the concerns around the question is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy? Don’t worry, there are plenty of other natural and skin-friendly products you can try instead. These include cocoa butter, shea butter, and coconut oil. Whichever you choose, it’s advisable to do a patch test first. This involves applying a small amount of your chosen product to your wrist or inner elbow before use. Wait 24 hours to see if you have any kind of negative reaction – if not, you can proceed with confidence.</p>

<h3>Adding aloe vera to your diet after pregnancy</h3><p>So, is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy? Not if you’re drinking whole leaf juice. Inner leaf aloe vera juice can be safe, but you shouldn’t consume it without talking to a medical professional first. And always choose a high-quality drink so that you know what you’re getting.</p><p>After you’ve finished breastfeeding, you’ll be able to <a href="https://erbology.co/how-much-aloe-juice-daily/" target="_blank">add aloe vera juice to your diet</a> without worry. Its light, refreshing, and slightly bitter flavour makes it a delicious addition to juices and smoothies. Try adding a couple of tablespoons to your favourite recipes – it pairs well with all kinds of ingredients. Alternatively, pour it into sparkling water to level up your hydration.</p><p>You can even sip the juice neat. For example, our <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-aloe-vera-juice-shots/" target="_blank">aloe vera shots</a> are perfect for enjoying on the go or first thing in the morning. Our aloe vera contains approximately 1600mg of acemannan polysaccharides per litre, which is higher than many juices on the market. In addition to the benefits discussed above, the plant can also help alkalise the body. This is useful for counteracting overly acidic diets and the associated negative effects on your wellness.</p><p>Looking for some more ideas on how to add aloe vera to your diet after you’ve finished breastfeeding? Check out a few of our favourite <a href="https://erbology.co/aloe-vera-recipes/" target="_blank">aloe vera recipes</a> to get you inspired.</p><h3>Introducing our organic aloe vera juice</h3><p>As you can see from what we’ve discussed here, quality is crucial in aloe vera juice. The type of drink you choose makes a difference when answering the question is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy. And it also influences how much the ingredient benefits you if you’re not pregnant.</p><p>That’s why we source <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-aloe-vera-juice/" target="_blank">our aloe vera juice</a> directly from small, sustainable farms in Spain. They cultivate the plants using organic techniques, with no chemicals involved. And our producers only harvest mature plants, because these have a higher concentration of nutrients. After picking the plant, they carefully extract the juice from the inner leaf in a meticulously controlled environment. This ensures that the drink is kept fresh and made to the very highest standards.</p><p>Speaking of high standards, we don’t mix any sweeteners or other additives into our aloe vera. Nor do we dilute it. That gives you the greatest chance of enjoying the plant’s impressive health benefits. We ship our juice to you in environmentally friendly, recyclable glass bottles. Store yours in a cool, dark place to keep it at its best. Once you’ve opened it, pop the bottle in the fridge and drink it within ten days.</p><p>We’ve had several people contact us and ask, ‘Can I drink aloe vera while pregnant?’. So, we want to reiterate here that no, we do not recommend drinking whole leaf aloe vera juice when pregnant. Even with inner leaf aloe vera juice like ours, we strongly suggest speaking to a doctor first.</p><h3>Can you drink aloe vera juice while pregnant? The final verdict</h3><p>Let's sum up what we've talked about in this post. Is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy? Not if it’s whole leaf juice. Research shows this can have negative effects when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, and therefore you should avoid it. Is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy if it’s inner leaf juice? Here, the jury is still out. We need more investigation to say for certain. As such, you should speak to your doctor before consuming it. Because it’s best to err on the side of caution in these matters, you may wish to avoid it completely.</p><p>Is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy when applied topically? In this case, it’s good news – experts agree that it’s fine to do so and can support skin health. However, we still suggest speaking to your doctor first just to be sure it’s right for you personally.</p>

“Is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy? It depends on how you use it. While it’s fine to apply topically, drinking the juice is best avoided.”

Aloe Vera During Pregnancy: Is It Safe? Benefits and Potential Risks - Erbology

There are several ingredients which, although perfectly harmless normally – and even health-enhancing – are not suitable for use when pregnant. Today, we're exploring whether aloe vera is one of them. Is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy when you drink it? Is aloe vera juice safe during pregnancy when you apply it topically? Let’s find out.

Aloe vera during pregnancy: is it safe? Benefits and potential risks

<h3>Lion’s mane vs cordyceps: Meet the mushrooms</h3><p>We’ll start by introducing our two challengers in the lion’s mane vs cordyceps contest. First up, we have lion’s mane. Also known by the scientific name Hericium erinaceus, this striking mushroom grows on the trunks of dead hardwood trees. Its clumps of cascading cream-coloured tendrils look a little like the mane of a lion or an old man’s beard. This is why, as well as lion’s mane, people sometimes call it the pom-pom mushroom or bearded tooth fungus.</p><p>You can find this fungus growing across North America, Asia, and Europe. This includes the UK – however, as an endangered species, it’s protected under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act. That means it’s illegal to collect it – so leave lion’s mane alone if you spot it in the woods! This is actually good advice for all wild mushrooms, as it’s difficult to know which are safe to consume. Whichever you choose in the lion’s mane vs cordyceps fight, we recommend avoiding foraging. Instead, always purchase your fungi from trusted suppliers.</p><p>Moving on to cordyceps, this grows in thick orangey-yellow fingers and has a rather unique life cycle. Unlike other species of mushroom, in the wild, cordyceps develops on a living host. Its spores infect small insects and spread through their bodies, taking control of the host and directing its behaviour.</p><p>This might sound like an end to the lion’s mane vs cordyceps debate before it’s even started. But don’t worry, eating cordyceps won’t transform you into a zombie! And the majority of suppliers cultivate the fungus on carefully controlled substrates, with no insects involved.</p><p>Now that we know more about the mushrooms themselves, let’s turn to the reasons you might want to take them.</p><h3>Shared lion’s mane and cordyceps benefits</h3><p>One factor that makes the lion’s mane vs cordyceps question tricky is that the two have a lot in common. For example, both species of mushroom are rich in a type of fibre called beta-glucan, which offers several benefits. Most notably, it supports the health of the heart, gut, and immune system.(1) Specifically, studies show that beta-glucan can decrease your cholesterol levels, lowering the risk of heart disease. It also enhances the function of certain types of immune cells, plus nourishes the good bacteria in your gut. The latter has a positive influence on everything from digestion to brain health.</p><p>Both lion’s mane and cordyceps have other ways of looking after your heart too. Cordyceps is rich in adenosine, a compound that offers heart-protective effects.(2) Meanwhile, lion’s mane helps to prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the blood.(3) It also contains a compound called hericenone B, which reduces blood clotting and lessens the risk of heart attack and stroke.(4)</p><p>Another similarity you’ll spot when discussing lion’s mane vs cordyceps is that both possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This is advantageous because chronic inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to several harmful conditions and even signs of ageing.</p><p>In addition, the two mushrooms act as <a href="https://erbology.co/adaptogens/" target="_blank">adaptogens</a>. That means they enable the mind and body to deal with stress of all kinds more effectively. This is another key benefit because stress can result in a number of unpleasant and damaging symptoms.</p><p>So, in terms of benefits for the heart, gut, and immune system, there’s no clear winner in the lion’s mane vs cordyceps contest. However, this isn’t the case in other areas of wellness. Time to see where each mushroom shines the brightest.</p><h3>Lion’s mane vs cordyceps: advantages of lion’s mane</h3><p>Starting with the <a href="https://erbology.co/health-benefits-lions-mane-mushroom/" target="_blank">benefits of lion’s mane</a>, this fungus is perhaps most famous for its positive influence on the brain. And when it comes to cognition, there’s no doubt that it wins the lion’s mane vs cordyceps debate.</p><p>The mushroom is rich in hericenones and erinacines, which are compounds that stimulate the growth of brain cells. This might explain why research has found that lion’s mane improves cognitive functions in people with mild Alzheimer’s.(5) The fungus may also prevent damage to neurons caused by amyloid-beta plaques that accumulate because of the condition.</p><p>Excitingly, studies have discovered that lion’s mane can enhance cognitive performance in healthy people too.(6) So, if you’re considering lion’s mane vs cordyceps as a way to keep your brain in top shape and improve your mental abilities, we recommend going for lion’s mane. We can’t say it will make you a genius, but it may help your synapses fire that little bit quicker!</p><p>What’s more, this fabulous fungus could have a positive effect on your mood. Research indicates that it can lessen feelings of anxiety, irritation, and depression.(7) This might be because it enhances nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The latter is a protein that assists with the development and survival of neurons. Lion’s mane could also boost neuroplasticity and reduce neuroinflammation, further supporting mental health.</p><p>While you can’t expect medicinal mushrooms to cure a condition like depression, some species may ease its symptoms. And if that’s what you’re interested in lion’s mane vs cordyceps for, again, lion’s mane comes out on top.</p><h3>Lion’s mane vs cordyceps: advantages of cordyceps</h3><p>Turning to cordyceps, this isn’t simply a lion’s mane alternative. You may well have heard of people using it as a way to improve their physical performance. And this is definitely an arena in which the fungus excels. In fact, it’s almost the opposite of lion’s mane in this regard. So, for athletes, the lion’s mane vs cordyceps question is potentially easier to answer.</p><p>For example, studies show that<a href="https://erbology.co/cordyceps-benefits/" target="_blank"> cordyceps is able to increase your VO2 max</a>.(8) This is a measure of how much oxygen your body can effectively use during exercise. A higher VO2 max allows you to perform better in aerobic workouts, like running, cycling, and swimming. Indeed, cordyceps might help to boost endurance and decrease feelings of tiredness when taking part in such activities.</p><p>Similarly, cordyceps could reduce muscle fatigue when you’re working out. Research suggests it may lessen the production and buildup of lactic acid during exercise, plus improve blood flow.(9) The latter helps you get sufficient oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and organs. Other studies indicate that cordyceps can enhance exercise performance by increasing the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).(10) This aids with muscle contraction and provides your cells with energy.</p><p>All of this means that in terms of boosting athletic performance, cordyceps is the frontrunner in the lion’s mane vs cordyceps contest. The fungus isn’t going to transform you from a couch potato into a star athlete! However, it could enable you to get more out of your time at the gym or beat your 5K PB.</p>

<h3>Lion’s mane vs cordyceps: are there any practical differences?</h3><p>Benefits aren’t the only factor worth considering when comparing lion’s mane vs cordyceps. We also need to think about issues like convenience, taste, and side effects. So, which mushroom wins when thinking about such practical questions?</p><p>When it comes to using these functional fungi, the methods are identical. In both cases, we suggest taking them in powder form, as it’s more convenient than sourcing and cooking fresh mushrooms. You can choose between <a href="https://erbology.co/difference-mushrooms-extracts-whole-mushrooms/" target="_blank">whole mushrooms and mushroom extracts</a>, which each have their advantages. Mushroom extracts are more concentrated in specific compounds – like cordycepin in <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-cordyceps-dual-extract-mushroom-powder/" target="_blank">cordyceps extract</a> and erinacine A in <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-lions-mane-dual-extract-mushroom-powder/" target="_blank">lion’s mane extract</a>. Whole mushroom powders, on the other hand, offer a broader spectrum of nutrients.</p><p>Whichever you choose, simply stir the recommended dosage into a cup of coffee, smoothie, or hot chocolate. Alternatively, you could make yourself a traditional mushroom tea by mixing the powder into hot water. The key point to remember is that hot water helps to draw out the nutrients. That’s why you can also use functional fungi powders when cooking dishes like soups, stews, and risottos.</p><p>How about the taste of lion’s mane vs cordyceps? It appears to be a tie here, too. Both mushroom powders have a mild, earthy, and slightly bitter flavour. This means they pair well with plenty of ingredients, from coffee to chocolate (yes, really!). It also means there’s no need to think about taste when choosing between the two fungi.</p><p>Finally, when it comes to side effects, again there is no real difference in lion’s mane vs cordyceps. Experts consider both safe for human consumption. However, seek medical advice first if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or have an existing health condition.</p><h3>The importance of quality in cordyceps and lion’s mane</h3><p>There’s little point spending time debating the merits of lion’s mane vs cordyceps if you don’t choose a high-grade powder. That’s because quality is crucial for obtaining the sort of benefits we’ve talked about above. For this reason, we work with expert mycologists to produce ours. They combine over 20 years’ experience with the latest scientific research to grow the very finest fungi.</p><p>The team cultivates both cordyceps and lion’s mane on natural and organic substrates under meticulously controlled conditions in Europe. Rest assured that no pesticides or other chemicals get near our fungi! So you don’t need to factor in these issues when evaluating our lion’s mane vs cordyceps products.</p><p>We also ask an independent and accredited laboratory to verify that they are rich in beta-glucans and secondary metabolites. That includes the erinacine A in our <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-lions-mane-mushroom-powder/" target="_blank">lion’s mane</a> and the cordycepin in our <a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-cordyceps-mushroom-powder/" target="_blank">cordyceps</a>. As such, we can say with confidence that they’re among the most potent products on the market. This is true of both our dual extracts and our whole mushroom powders.</p><p>And, of course, we don’t sneak in any unwanted extras like artificial flavourings or preservatives. What you receive is 100% pure mushroom. We ship our fungi powders out to you in environmentally friendly amber glass jars to keep them fresh. Please recycle yours once they’re empty to help us all minimise our impact on the planet.</p><h3>Lion’s mane vs cordyceps: can you take them together?</h3><p>The fact that lion’s mane and cordyceps both have impressive health benefits in different spheres leads to an obvious question. Can you take them both at the same time? It will please you to know that the answer is yes. The winner of lion’s mane vs cordyceps can be both! The only caveat to this is that you shouldn't simply double the amount of mushroom you consume.</p><p>So, for example, one option is to take the fungus that’s most appropriate for your needs on a particular day. That might mean choosing cordyceps on a morning when you’re heading out hiking. Or lion’s mane on an afternoon when you have an important project to complete at work. Alternatively, you could avoid comparing lion’s mane vs cordyceps completely, and take both together every day. Just make sure that you only use half the recommended dosage of each one if you do.</p><h3>Lion’s mane vs cordyceps: which mushroom to choose</h3><p>In conclusion, the winner of the lion’s mane vs cordyceps battle really depends on what benefits you’re hoping to get. If you’re interested in boosting your energy, endurance, and VO2 max, cordyceps is the best choice. Conversely, if you’d like to enhance your cognitive functions and mental health, lion’s mane is the mushroom for you. When it comes to other areas, such as supporting heart health and immune function, there’s no clear champion.</p><p>Still can’t pick a side in the lion’s mane vs cordyceps debate? You don’t have to! It’s possible to incorporate both fungi into your daily routine, or alternate between them depending on the day ahead. Sounds good to us.</p>

“When debating taking lion’s mane vs cordyceps, focus on the benefits you want. Lion’s mane supports cognition and mental health, while cordyceps fights fatigue and boosts endurance.”

Lion’s Mane vs. Cordyceps: Comparing the Key Benefits - Erbology

With such a variety of medicinal mushrooms out there, it can be hard to know which species to choose. And two of the most popular options are lion’s mane and cordyceps. These potent fungi each have plenty of devout cheerleaders promoting them as the best one to take. So, who do you believe? To help you out, in this article, we’re staging a lion’s mane vs cordyceps showdown! We’ll look at the benefits of each mushroom in turn, giving you a better idea of which to go for. We’ve also got some practical advice on finding good quality functional fungi and how to use them. So… let the battle commence!

Lion’s mane vs. cordyceps: comparing the key benefits

<h3>The Ayurveda science of life&nbsp;</h3><p>Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest medical systems. Its approach to health and illness is holistic and focused on prevention of disease and promotion of good health. In fact, Ayurveda encourages healthy lifestyle choices to attain health and balance in life. Healthy ayurvedic practices include eating fresh wholefoods and avoiding processed foods.&nbsp;</p><p>In addition, old tradition states that rasayanas keep ageing and disease at bay. Followers of ayurvedic medicine also follow detoxification rituals and regularly consume adaptogens which they believe increase the body’s resilience towards stress and imbalance. Perhaps one of the reasons why Ayurveda relies so heavily upon medicinal herbs is thanks to India’s unique and rich biodiversity.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://erbology.health/storage/images/2020/07/tulsi.jpg"></p><p>In fact, Ayurvedic practices utilise countless herbs, including one which tends to stand out more than others: tulsi, also known as holy basil (Ocimum sanctum). What is tulsi and what are the benefits of tulsi tea? Let’s find out!</p><h3>Related reading&nbsp;</h3><ul><li><a href="https://erbology.co/ashwagandha-morning-night/">Do I take ashwagandha in the morning or night? Your ashwagandha questions answered.</a></li><li><a href="https://erbology.co/best-way-to-take-turmeric/">What’s the best way to take turmeric: tea, powder or capsules?</a></li></ul>

<h3>Tulsi: the queen of adaptogens</h3><p>Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, as its name suggests comes from the basil family Lamiaceae (tribe ocimeae).&nbsp;</p><p>This family also includes mint, sage, oregano, rosemary, and lavender. It is believed that tulsi was born in North Central India and now grows freely in the East, in areas surrounding the Equator.&nbsp;</p><p>Ayurvedic medicine refers to tulsi as “The Queen of Herbs”, “The Incomparable One” and “Mother Medicine of Nature”. In fact, traditional medicine praises it as an “elixir of life” for its apparent benefits from both a medicinal and spiritual perspective. In India, its birthplace, the local inhabitants have used tulsi for millennia, including this herb in spiritual practices and lifestyle customs.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://erbology.health/storage/images/2022/02/tulsi-holy-basil-scaled-e1651597636412-808x1024.jpg"></p><p>Modern science is just starting to elucidate the health benefits of tulsi tea. In fact, there is some emerging literature on tulsi which may begin to confirm ancient ayurvedic beliefs. In fact, according to tradition, tulsi acts as a tonic for the body, mind and spirit that may assist with modern day ailments.(1)</p><h3>The benefits of tulsi&nbsp;</h3><p>As far as Ayurveda’s holistic approach to health and wellbeing goes, tulsi is probably the most representative example of this eastern medical system.&nbsp;</p><p>Tulsi is naturally bitter and hot, believed to reach deep tissues and balance ayurvedic doshas (the energy patterns that ayurvedic medicine believes flow through the body). It appears that according to Ayurveda, tulsi can alleviate a host of ailments from anxiety, asthma, diarrhoea, arthritis, indigestion, and even fever. Reputable scientific studies are yet to confirm this.(2)</p><p>Moreover, the ancient tradition postulates that Tulsi promotes a lustrous complexion and fosters beauty, intelligence and stamina. No wonder ayurvedic believers refer to this herb as “the elixir of life”!</p><h3>The origins of tulsi&nbsp;</h3><p>When people describe an herb as “holy”, “queen” and “diety”, it’s no wonder that tulsi has such a unique history. Indian culture has used tulsi for over 5000 years as a religious and healing herb.(1)</p><p>In western culture, holy basil has only appeared more recently and we often find it in herbal medicines and essential oils. You can also use dried tulsi leaves to make a delicious herbal infusion.&nbsp;</p><h3>So how did we end up drinking tulsi tea ?</h3><p>Tulsi originated in India and thrives in humid and tropical regions. Nowadays it is commonly cultivated all throughout Southeast Asia. It is a shrub that grows up to 60cm tall with furry branches, aromatic leaves that are either purple or green, and small white and purple flowers that grow out of the branches. Tulsi leaves are grown, harvested and dried for use in herbal preparations.(2)</p><p>The tulsi plant comes in three main varieties, and each one has its own unique characteristics.&nbsp;</p><p>The first variety is the Krishna, also known as purple leaf tulsi thanks to its purple leaves and flowers. This variety has a distinct aroma of cloves and its leaves have a sharp peppery flavour. Krishna grows widely across India and people often plant it in their homes and gardens as decoration.&nbsp;</p><p>Another variety of tulsi is Rama. This unique plant has green leaves with white or light purple coloured flowers. It also has a clove-like scent. Compared to purple leaf tulsi, it is more cooling and subtle. It is popular in India but also grows in China, Nepal and Brazil.</p><p><a href="https://erbology.co/shop/organic-tulsi-powder/"><img src="https://erbology.health/storage/images/2022/04/R5D39141-1024x683.jpg"></a></p><p>Finally, a third variety of tulsi is known as Vana. This type of tree is native to Asia and certain regions of Africa. It grows in the wild and is also cultivated in the Himalayas. Its light green leaves make it a bright shrub, its aroma is more refreshing and reminiscent of citrus.&nbsp;</p><h3>The legends of tulsi&nbsp;</h3><p>The rich history of tulsi which is tied to a strong religious and spiritual meaning explains why it is such a worshipped herb today.(2)</p><p>One of the legends claims that tulsi was an earthly manifestation of Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth and companion of Vishnu, the Hindu god. The legend narrates that Lakshmi was Vishnu’s favourite wife, allegedly he had two others.&nbsp;</p><p>As a result of the other wives’ jealousy, it is thought that they cursed Lakshmi, thus leading her to earth in the form of a plant. Vishnu then reassures Lakshmi that she will be the Tulsi plant, however only a part of her will be rooted on earth. In fact, her spirit allegedly returned to be connected with him.&nbsp;</p><p>Another legend associates tulsi with the Samudra Manthana, known as the churning of the cosmic ocean by gods and demons. It is believed that Dhanvantari, the physician to the gods, offers the gods an elixir of immortality. Vishnu, the Hindu god, allegedly sheds happy tears in response to this gift, and as the tears fall into the elixir they lead to the birth of the tulsi plant.&nbsp;</p><p>Finally, a further legend depicts tulsi as a connection between earth and heaven. In fact, a traditional Hindu prayer states that the creator-god, Brahma, resides in Tulsi’s branches, whilst Hindu pilgrimage centres reside in the plants roots. Furthermore, according to the legend the Ganges River flows through tulsi’s roots, the deities reside in its stem leaves and the Hindu scriptures are found in the upper part of the plant’s branches.&nbsp;</p><h3>How to use tulsi according to ancient tradition</h3><p>In the Hindu tradition, worshippers regard tulsi as a sacred plant. As per the legend, this plant is the earthly manifestation of Lakshmi. In fact, worshippers of Vishnu wear beaded necklaces made of tulsi stems which they use in their prayers. They also mix tulsi petals with water as a way to send off the souls of the dead to heaven.&nbsp;</p><p>There is also a special ceremony dedicated to tulsi called Tulsi Vivah, this is when the tulsi plant marries Vishnu. The ceremony takes place on different days depending on the region of India and symbolises the end of the monsoon season and the start of the Hindu wedding season.&nbsp;</p><p>The tulsi plant is not only worshipped in sacred places such as temples and at ceremonies, it is also praised within the home. In fact, in many Hindu homes it is typically planted in the central courtyard in clay pots decorated with religious images of deities. The most religious households may have up to a dozen tulsi plants to create a “forest of holy basil”.(2)</p><p><img src="https://erbology.health/storage/images/2022/02/yulia-matvienko-FR5RL5kI5T8-unsplash-1024x779.jpg"></p><p>In ayurvedic tradition, the tulsi plant is used as an adaptogen to help the body confront external stressors. In fact, it is used as a remedy for common illnesses in various forms, from fresh leaves to powder and essential oil.&nbsp;</p><p>Holy basil is commonly used in Thailand as part of the local cuisine. In fact, it is locally known as “kaphrao” and is used in a variety of dishes including a well-known stir-fry dish made with holy basil, pork or seafood, and rice.&nbsp;</p><h3>Tulsi infusion&nbsp;</h3><p>Tulsi leaves are commonly used as a tea or infusion. Much like many other herbal infusions, you can use fresh or dried leaves and steep them in hot water. Tulsi leaves steeped on their own make a caffeine-free infusion, perfect for those who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine.&nbsp;</p><p>Tulsi typically has a strong scent along with an astringent, somewhat bitter flavour. However, given that it is part of the basil family, it also has notes of flowers and pepper. As previously described, some varieties of tulsi plants have a clove-like scent and spicy aroma, whereas others are more fresh and citrusy.&nbsp;</p><h3>How does tulsi impact health?</h3><p>Given ayurvedic medicine used tulsi for several millennia, researchers have extensively studied it in human populations, namely in India.(3)&nbsp;</p><p>A group of researchers conducted a systematic review of the literature to analyse the clinical efficacy and safety of tulsi in humans.(4)</p><p>The review looked at tulsi in the treatment of metabolic disorders, the modulation of the immune system and neurocognition. So what are the health benefits of tulsi?</p><h3>Tulsi and metabolic disorders&nbsp;</h3><p>The review included seventeen trials on tulsi, conducted between 1964 and 2016. The study populations varied between 3 and 100, as did the form of tulsi leaves administered, from the whole plant, to powdered leaves, juice and water extracts. The dosage and frequency of consumption also varied significantly between studies.&nbsp;</p><p>In summary, these studies found significant reductions in fasting and post-meal blood glucose levels, as well as improved lipid profiles and lower blood pressure in individuals with diabetes and obesity. It was observed that the longer trials (12-13 weeks) showed more beneficial changes.(4)</p><h3>Tulsi and immunity&nbsp;</h3><p>With regards to tulsi’s effects on immunity, the researchers looked at the results of five clinical trials. Doses varied from 300mg/day to 10g/day of extracts of tulsi leaves.&nbsp;</p><p>They observed beneficial immune responses including increases in natural killer and T-helper cells in healthy adults, and improved immune responses to viral infections. Furthermore, patients suffering from asthma reported an improvement in respiratory symptoms.(4)</p><h3>Tulsi and neurocognition</h3><p>The researchers also observed the effects of tulsi on neurocognition. The doses varied between 300mg/day and 6g/day across studies. Overall, results showed that there were varying degrees of positive outcomes across studies.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="https://erbology.health/storage/images/2018/06/simon-rae-IGOBsR93I7Y-unsplash-1024x683.jpg"></p><p>In fact, benefits included decreased stress levels, reduced anxiety, sexual issues and depression, along with improved working memory and cognitive attention. In addition, there were no reported adverse effects.(4)</p><h3>Future research&nbsp;</h3><p>In conclusion, it appears that the consumption of tulsi for medical purposes has not shown any adverse effects thus far. However, any negative side-effects from long-term intakes of tulsi should be documented.&nbsp;</p><p>The researchers have highlighted that only a small proportion of published literature is of high-calibre. In addition, there are methodological concerns within the studies and a lack of detail regarding the dosages and chemical composition of the formulations.&nbsp;</p><p>This suggests that there is still insufficient data to support specific medical recommendations. There is a clear need for further studies conducted on larger populations within longer time frames. Moreover, studies should clearly communicate the chemical composition of samples and any data on interaction with other drugs.</p><h3>Related reading&nbsp;</h3><ul><li><a href="https://erbology.co/adaptogens-sleep/">Adaptogens for sleep: Achieve the miracle of a good night’s rest</a></li><li><a href="https://erbology.co/adaptogens/">What are adaptogens and their health benefits?</a></li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p>

The Ayurveda science of life&nbsp;Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest medical systems. Its approac ...