Lion’s mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) have become one of the most talked-about superfoods in the wellness world, praised for their unique appearance and impressive health benefits. Lion's mane is native all over the world including parts of Asia, Europe, and North America. These mushrooms are not only edible but also packed with bioactive compounds that support cognitive function, mental well-being, immune health, and even digestion.
In this article, we’ll dive into the growing body of evidence supporting the health benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms and offer practical advice on how to incorporate them into your diet.
What Are Lion’s Mane Mushrooms?
Lion’s mane mushrooms are easily recognizable by their distinctive, cascading white spines that resemble a lion's mane. Unlike most mushrooms, lion’s mane doesn’t have the typical cap-and-stem structure. Instead, it features long, dangling tendrils that are soft to the touch.
These mushrooms are prized both for culinary and medicinal purposes. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for their ability to improve cognitive function, enhance memory, and support overall well-being.
Cognitive Boost: Enhancing Brain Function
Perhaps the most well-known benefit of lion’s mane mushrooms is their ability to support brain and neurological health. Several scientific studies done on rats, mice, and humans have demonstrated that lion’s mane mushrooms can stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which is a protein essential for the growth and maintenance of neurons. NGF plays a critical role in memory, learning, and cognitive function. Because of this, the Alzheimers drug discovery foundation has developed an interest in it for the use of dementia prevention.
A 2009 study published in Phytotherapy Research found that older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who took 3000mg lion’s mane mushroom fruit body powder for 16 weeks experienced significant improvements in cognitive function compared to those who took a placebo. The researchers suggested that because of these findings, lion’s mane may have a role in reducing symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases by enhancing nerve regeneration and protecting against further neuron damage.
Another group of researchers have shown that lion’s mane may help protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are implicated in the progression of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. In an animal study published in Restorative Neurology and Neuroscience, lion’s mane extract was shown to promote nerve regeneration and repair in rats with induced nerve injury. This has further strengthened the belief that the potential for lion’s mane in treating or managing neurodegenerative disorders may have huge implications. Although more human studies are needed to confirm these results, the preliminary evidence is promising.
Mood and Mental Health Support
Lion’s mane mushrooms may also offer benefits for mental health, particularly in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Research has shown that lion’s mane could help regulate levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and NGF, both of which are important for brain health and emotional regulation.
A small study published in Biomedical Research in 2010 found that participants who took lion’s mane extract daily for four weeks experienced significant reductions in feelings of anxiety and depression. The researchers concluded that lion’s mane could be a useful natural remedy for mental health conditions, potentially offering an alternative or complement to traditional treatments.
Furthermore, lion’s mane may have a role in reducing the impact of chronic stress. Stress can lead to changes in the brain that result in symptoms of depression and anxiety, and lion’s mane may help counteract these effects by supporting neurogenesis (the growth of new brain cells) in key areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, such as the hippocampus.
Gut Health: Supporting Digestion
Lion’s mane mushrooms may also promote gut health by improving digestion and balancing gut bacteria. Emerging evidence suggests that lion’s mane’s anti-inflammatory properties help protect the gut lining and support healthy gut microbiota, which are crucial for digestion and overall well-being.
A 2015 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry highlighted lion’s mane’s ability to protect the stomach lining from damage caused by ulcers, while also promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. These effects may contribute to better digestion and could reduce symptoms of digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
The gut-brain connection is another area where lion’s mane shines. Since approximately 70% of the immune system is located in the gut, maintaining a healthy digestive system can have positive effects on immune function, mental clarity, and overall health.
Immune System Boost
Mushrooms in general are known for their immune-boosting properties and Lion's Mane is no different. They contain a form of soluble dietary fibre called beta-glucans, which have been shown to enhance immune response and help the body fight off infections. These compounds activate macrophages (immune cells that detect and destroy pathogens) and increase the production of other immune cells that are essential for defending the body.
Studies also suggest that lion’s mane’s antioxidants can help protect cells from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation throughout the body. A study in Food Research International found that lion’s mane mushrooms have significant antioxidant activity, which can help protect against free radical damage linked to aging and chronic diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
Lion’s mane mushrooms are rich in bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Chronic inflammation is a key driver of many health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. By reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals, lion’s mane may help protect the body from various age-related diseases.
Research published in Mushroom Science in 2016 demonstrated that lion’s mane has potent anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial for those suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions. Its antioxidant properties help protect cells from oxidative damage, which is linked to aging and various diseases.
How to Incorporate Lion’s Mane Mushrooms into Your Diet
Lion’s mane mushrooms can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, whether you prefer fresh mushrooms or powdered extracts. Here are several options for incorporating lion’s mane into your diet:
Not all Mushroom products are made the same
Lots of mushroom products available on the market are deceiving. Most products in North America that are mushroom powders, coffee or extracts come from two sources: USA grown mycelium on grain, or imported Chinese grown fruit body extracts that may not even have any beneficial compounds left in them after being gamma-ray treated and extracted with high heat.
Instead, ordering from a mushroom farm like ours you can ensure that all of your mushrooms products are made from the highest quality ingredients possible, with a smaller carbon footprint and complete transparency.
Fresh Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Fresh lion’s mane mushrooms are widely available in specialty health food stores or farmer’s markets, especially in areas where mushrooms are foraged or cultivated. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a texture similar to crab or lobster meat, making them a great addition to plant-based dishes or used as a meat substitute in savory meals. You can sauté, bake, air fry or stir-fry fresh lion’s mane mushrooms, add them to soups, or use them in pastas and grain bowls.
If you're in Manitoba, check out our fresh mushroom offerings to see if we have any Lion's Mane available right now!
Lion’s Mane Mushroom Powder
If fresh lion’s mane isn’t available, lion’s mane powder is an easy and convenient alternative. The powder can be mixed into smoothies, oatmeal, or teas. For a more robust option, try adding it to your morning coffee (often marketed as “mushroom coffee”) for a natural brain-boosting start to the day.
Check out our products page to see our variety of mushroom powders available!
Supplements
Lion’s mane supplements are available in capsule, or liquid form. These supplements provide a concentrated, standardized dose of lion’s mane. Many people find that supplements offer a convenient way to experience the cognitive benefits of lion’s mane without having to cook or prepare it.
When choosing a lion’s mane supplement, look for products that use organic mushrooms and are free from fillers or additives. It's also worth checking whether the product contains a full-spectrum extract to ensure you're getting the most benefit from all the bioactive compounds in the mushroom.
All of the products on our website are exactly what they say they are with no fillers or additives. You can be absolutely sure that when you purchase mushrooms from us they are the truest version of themselves.
Tinctures and Teas
Another option is lion’s mane tinctures or teas, which can be easily added to your daily routine. Mushroom tinctures are typically made by extracting the bioactive compounds from the mushrooms using alcohol and water, providing a potent dose of beneficial compounds in a convenient liquid form. These tinctures can be taken directly or added to water, tea, or smoothies.
Check out our dual extract mushroom tinctures that are extracted using ultrasonic frequencies for premium quality and maximum potency. All of our extracts are made using mushrooms that we grew ourselves. Free from any fillers, mycelium and never irradiated.
Lion's Mane Cultivation
Lion's mane mushrooms are a wood loving mushroom and are most often grown on a hardwood sawdust substrate. More often than not, the substrate is supplemented with minerals, soy hulls or wheat bran for increased yields when prepared for cultivation.
If you're interested in trying to grow your own mushrooms at home, we also offer ready to grow mushroom kits and other mushroom growing supplies so that you can start growing this beginner friendly mushroom at home.
If you're interested in adding lion’s mane to your diet, consider consulting with a healthcare provider if you're pregnant, breastfeeding or have any underlying health conditions to determine the best approach for your individual health needs.