Acetylcholine — the key to a clear mind

95% of everything we see, hear, feel and remember is processed with the help of a single molecule. This is acetylcholine. 🧠 It is the main mediator in neural communication, responsible for concentration, speed of thought, information processing and memory. 📊

But as we get older, or under the strain of chronic stress, our levels of it drop. 😟 That’s why we experience those familiar symptoms — a ‘foggy mind’, difficulty concentrating, forgetting words, and slower reactions.

To support this system, you can take a whole host of over-the-counter medicines. 💊 But wouldn’t it be better to try just one natural acetylcholine stabiliser? Lion`s mane mushroom 🍄 is used to support cognitive function and even to help prevent neurodegenerative diseases.

What is acetylcholine?

There you are, sitting quietly—and suddenly there’s a sharp sound. 🔊 Your body tenses, your heart beats faster... Or another moment — a faint scent suddenly brings back old memories. Or that strange feeling before an important event, when your mind becomes unusually clear and your body is full of energy. ⚡

All of this is down to acetylcholine — the true conductor of our nervous system. It is the first neurotransmitter ever discovered, responsible for transmitting signals between nerve cells (neurons) and muscles. Without it, we would be unable to:

• to move — it literally causes the muscles to contract;
• thinking quickly — affects reaction time;
• memorising information — a key factor in learning. 

Acetylcholine is synthesised from choline (a vitamin-like substance that we obtain from food, such as eggs, liver and soya) and acetyl-CoA. It is released at synapses (the junctions between neurons) and transmits the signal onwards.  It is then rapidly broken down by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase to prevent the system from becoming ‘overloaded’.

A deficiency of this neurotransmitter is linked to memory problems, muscle weakness and a dry mouth, as acetylcholine stimulates saliva production. 💧 There are many reasons for this. For example, after the age of 25–30, its production naturally declines. Chronic stress and exposure to toxins (alcohol, nicotine, pollution) exacerbate the problem. A sedentary lifestyle, lack of sleep and overwork also reduce its activity.

A deficiency of this substance causes more than just forgetfulness. Unfortunately, it also leads to muscle weakness, headaches, anxiety and low mood. 😞 The situation is further complicated by the fact that acetylcholine is rapidly broken down by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Consequently, the brain is constantly in need of a fresh supply.

Comb ginseng — a natural acetylcholine booster

Lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus), also known as ‘Lion’s mane’ 🦁 or ‘Mind mushroom’, is a true brain-boosting powerhouse. Here’s what it does:

1. It stimulates the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). This helps neurons to regenerate, grow and communicate more effectively with one another. 🤝 This has an impact on memory, learning speed and protection against neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s).
2. Increases acetylcholine levels. It contains erinacins and hericenones — compounds that accelerate the synthesis of acetylcholine. As a result, your mind works more clearly, words come more easily, and the fog in your brain clears. 
3. Protects the brain from ‘ageing’. Antioxidant action + reduced inflammation in the nervous system = less neuronal damage.
4. Slows down the breakdown of acetylcholine. It inhibits the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down acetylcholine, thereby prolonging its action at the synapses.

The most popular and convenient form is capsules (500–1000 mg/day). 💊 Dried mycelium powder, ground fruiting bodies and whole dried fruiting bodies are also available (0.5–1 g/day). The powder can be added to coffee ☕, smoothies or simply dissolved in water, whilst the dried mushroom can be brewed as tea or used to make a broth (though it has a distinctive taste).

To improve concentration, it is recommended to take goji berries in the morning before work or study, and to help restore the nervous system, before bed in combination with reishi. The course lasts a minimum of 4–6 weeks, and up to three months for a lasting effect.

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