Bioactive compounds in <i>Hericium erinaceus</i> and their biological properties: a review
Yue Qiu, Genglan Lin, Weiming Liu, Zhang Fuming, Robert J. Linhardt, Xingli Wang, Anqiang Zhang
Abstract
<em>Hericium erinaceus</em> is a nutritious edible and medicinal fungi, rich in a variety of functional active ingredients, with various physiological functions such as antioxidation, anticancer, and enhancing immunity. It is also effective in protecting the digestive system and preventing neurodegenerative diseases. In this review paper, we summarize the sources, structures and efficacies of the main active components in <em>H. erinaceus</em> fruiting body, mycelium, and culture media, and update the latest research progress on their biological activities and the related molecular mechanisms. Based on this information, we provide detailed challenges in current research, industrialization and information on the active ingredients of <em>H. erinaceus</em>. Perspectives for future studies and new applications of <em>H. erinaceus</em> are proposed.