Disclaimer: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) has long been revered in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine for its cognitive and neurological benefits. Recent scientific research has given credibility to its potential to enhance brain health and combat cognitive decline.1 As the scientific community continues to explore the myriad benefits of Lion’s Mane, incorporating this natural nootropic into your lifestyle may support cognitive health and overall brain function.
What is Lion’s Mane?
Lion’s Mane is a distinctive, white, shaggy mushroom that resembles a lion’s mane as it grows—hence its name. Native to North America, Europe, and Asia, it has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for its potential health benefits. Often consumed as a supplement, tea, or culinary ingredient, Lion’s Mane is gaining widespread attention for its possible role in supporting cognitive function, mood balance, and overall brain health.
How does Lion’s Mane help with cognitive function?
Lion’s Mane contains bioactive compounds known as hericenones and erinacines. These compounds have been shown to stimulate the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that supports the growth and health of brain cells. This neurotrophic effect is crucial for cognitive functions such as memory, learning, and concentration2.
What are the potential benefits of Lion’s Mane?
- Enhances Memory and Learning: Stimulates NGF production, supporting neural growth and synaptic plasticity.
- Supports Neurogenesis: Promotes the formation of new neurons, aiding in brain repair and maintenance.
- May Delay Cognitive Decline: Potential to slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
- Mood Regulation: Some studies suggest anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, though more research is needed.
What does the research say about Lion’s Mane mushroom?
University of Queensland study
In 2023, researchers at the University of Queensland’s Brain Institute discovered that compounds extracted from Lion’s Mane had a significant impact on the growth of brain cells and improving memory3. Using super-resolution microscopy, they observed that these compounds increased the size of growth cones, facilitating better neural communication. This finding suggests potential applications in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Clinical trials
A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial4 investigated the effects of Lion’s Mane on individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Participants who consumed Lion’s Mane supplements showed significant improvements in cognitive functions, particularly in memory and mental processing, as measured by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Notably, these improvements diminished once supplementation ceased, indicating the importance of continuous intake.
Acute effects in healthy adults
A recent study published in Frontiers in Nutrition2 assessed the immediate effects of a single dose of Lion’s Mane extract on cognitive performance in healthy young adults. While the overall cognitive and mood enhancements were not statistically significant, participants did exhibit improved performance in specific tasks, such as the pegboard test, suggesting task-specific benefits.
Considerations before use
While Lion’s Mane shows promise, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking other medications.
References
2 https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1405796/full
3 https://qbi.uq.edu.au/article/2023/02/mushrooms-magnify-memory-boosting-nerve-growth