Also known as: Hericium erinaceus, Yamabushitake, Monkey Head Mushroom
Lion's Mane is an edible medicinal mushroom that stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis. It is widely studied for its neuroprotective, cognitive-enhancing, and mood-supporting properties.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a culinary and medicinal mushroom with a long history of use in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. Its bioactive compounds, hericenones and erinacines, are able to cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein critical for the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. Preclinical studies demonstrate that Lion's Mane promotes neurogenesis and myelination, while clinical trials in older adults with mild cognitive impairment show significant improvements in cognitive function scores during supplementation. The mushroom also displays anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. It is generally considered very safe and is available as a food, extract capsule, or powder.
Hericenones and erinacines in Lion's Mane have been shown to stimulate NGF synthesis in vitro and in vivo, supporting neuronal growth, maintenance, and repair.
A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showed that older adults with mild cognitive impairment significantly improved on cognitive scales after 16 weeks of Lion's Mane supplementation.
Clinical evidence suggests Lion's Mane may reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, potentially through its anti-inflammatory and NGF-stimulating mechanisms.
Divided into 2–3 doses with meals
Use standardized extract containing hericenones and erinacines. Effects may take 4–8 weeks to manifest.
Divided into 2–3 doses with meals
Higher doses needed for whole mushroom powder compared to concentrated extracts.
Standardized potency and convenience
Flexible dosing and culinary use
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