Lion's Mane mushroom - properties, effects, opinions + top products

When we were just getting used to adaptogens like ashwagandha, mushrooms with similar properties appeared on the market like rain. And the lion's share of the shelves was taken up by Lion's Mane.

With Ilona Krzak, MSc in Pharmacy, we have taken scientific research and product formulations under the microscope. Let's see what you can actually count on and what limitations we encountered in the data.

See also:

• Cordyceps
• Reishi
• Ashwagandha
• Cordyceps
• Maccharide
• Caffeine
• Recommended products with adaptogens

What is Lion's Mane?

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Lion's Mane (Latin Hericium erinaceus) is a genus of parasitic fungus with adaptogenic properties in the soprano family. Lion's Mane in Polish means 'lion's mane', but in Poland it is known by the name soplówka hedgehog.

Both names you will fully understand by looking at the photo below - 

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The spherical white fruiting bodies are covered with soft "icicles" and look like a fluffy mane that you just want to stroke.

White fruitcakes with a spherical form are covered with soft "icicles" and look like a fluffy mane that you want to stroke.

It has been used in Eastern medicine for several thousand years for its protective properties on the nervous system, immune support, reduction of inflammation and improvement of well-beingand. It belongs to the groups of so-called 'vital mushrooms' along with reishi, chaga and shitake, among others .

Lion's Mane contains numerous bioactive compoundsand:

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• β-glucan polysaccharides,
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• amino acids, 
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• antioxidants,
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• flavonoids,
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• sterols,
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• erinacins (substances responsible for the functioning of the nervous system),
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• hericenones - (compounds that support the production of nerve growth factor).

These are responsible for the potentially beneficial health properties of the mushroom.

Lion's Mane grows naturally in forests around the world, particularly in Asia, Europe and North America. In Poland, it is included on the red lists of endangered mushroom species due to its rarity. It usually grows on dead trees such as oak, maple or pineand.

Does this mushroom even work?

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Unfortunately, there are few scientific studies involving humans that show strong evidence for the health-promoting effects of Lion's Mane. Most of the researchers' work is rodent studiesand. Their results, which you will read about below, are promising, but unfortunately - a single study on a small group of humans is not enough.

So you ask - but what about Eastern medicine and its practices? In China, for example, adaptogenic mushrooms are used in hospitals on a daily basis to treat many ailments. I asked medical doctor Witold Tomaszewski for his opinion.

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"Remarkably, the two ethnic groups also differ in terms of metabolism, which can affect body composition, health and susceptibility to disease," the doctor adds.

And will you feel the lion's share? You'll have to find out for yourself. Read what Lion's Mane helps with.

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Lion's Mane properties

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According to scientific studies (mainly on animals), Lion's Mane mushroom potentially exhibits neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, immune-stimulating properties and may protect the heart and digestive system. It may also have a positive effect on moodand. What does this look like in scientific research?

Lion's Mane potentially:

Provides support for the nervous system

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Lion's Mane contains two compounds, hericenones and erinacins, which have been shown in in vitro and in vivo animal studies to have neuroprotective propertiesand. This means that they reduce neuronal damage and prevent diseases of the nervous system .

A 2020 study involving 41 patients with Alzheimer's disease suggests that taking 1g of Lion's Mane extract for 49 weeks improves cognitive test scores compared to placebo .

Research in mice from 2016 suggests that 'lion's mane' extract may reduce symptoms of memory loss and prevent neuronal damage caused by amyloid-beta plaques that accumulate in the brain during Alzheimer's diseaseand.

Rat studies from the same year suggest that Lion's Mane extract can accelerate neuronal regeneration after nervous system injury .

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Reduces inflammation

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Inflammation is the body's defence response to injury, infection or other types of damage to cells and tissues. It is important that the body defends itself, but such a chronic condition can cause the development of many diseases, such as autoimmunity or cancerand.

Lion's Mane contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant bioactive ingredients that can reduce inflammation and reduce the negative effects of the condition on the bodyand.

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Several animal studies from 2013-2016 suggest that extract from this mushroom can reduce markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in rodentsand. Consumption of the extract has been shown to be useful in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, liver damage and strokeand.

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Improves immunity

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Immunity, or your body's defence shield, is 70% located in the gutand. Lion's Mane increases the activity of 'good bacteria', which can support the proper functioning of the immune system.

These properties were tested on mice given a lethal dose of Salmonella bacteria. The results suggest that systematic intake of Lion's Mane extract almost quadrupled the life span of the miceand.

Protects against ulcers

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Protects against stomach ulcers - a 2016 scientific study involving people with ulcerative colitis suggests that taking 14% Lion's Mane extract reduces unpleasant symptoms of the disease and improves quality of life .

Unfortunately, patients with Crohn's disease included in the same study did not experience positive effects .

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Gastric ulcers are often the culprit of the pathogenic bacterium Helicobacter pylori. It causes inflammatory changes in the gastric mucosa, which manifests as discomfort, pain and suffering for the patient. In vitro studies suggest that Lion's Mane extract can inhibit the growth Helicobacter pylori and protect the stomach lining from damageand.

Promotes wellbeing

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Mental health is being talked about more and more. Up to a third of people in the developed world will experience depression and other mental health problems . This is the number of sufferers we know about and how many we don't know about

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The interest in natural remedies to support wellbeing is not surprising. Studies in rodents suggest that Lion's Mane extract has anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression .

Mental state in mice is characteristically assessed by observing behavioural changes in mice. For example, a mouse that is stressed and full of anxiety has a prolonged period of immobility ('freezing'). When Lion's Mane extract is ingested, the time of this state is reduced.

Motivation, emotional state and cognitive function are often tested in rodents in a forced swim testand. Mice given Lion's Mane extract for 4 weeks stayed afloat longer, which may indicate a greater willingness to survive .

Unfortunately, we will not ask mice about their mood and their actual wellbeing, but there is one noteworthy study involving humans.

A 2010 study examined the effects of a fungus on the mood of menopausal women. Twenty-six women were divided into two groups. One received cookies with a placebo and the other with Lion's Mane extract. After four weeks, the subjects consuming the mushroom reported reduced feelings of irritability and anxietyand.

Reduces risk of heart disease

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Scientific research suggests that Lion's Mane extract may affect some of the factors that contribute to heart disease. Obesity, high cholesterol and cardiovascular problems can lead to heart attack, stroke, atherosclerosis and other serious diseasesand.

Research with rodents suggests that Lion's Mane:

• prevents oxidation of cholesterol in the blood,
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• improves fat metabolism,
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• lowers triglycerides and blood sugarand.
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In one study, rats were fed a high-fat diet and given Lion's Mane extract at the same time. After 28 days, the rats had 27% lower triglycerides and 42% less weight gainand.

Experts indicate that more than half of Poles have excessively high cholesterol. Unfortunately, many don't know this because they don't do blood tests. And do you know what kind of cholesterol you have?

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Destroys cancer cells in vitro

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In in vitro studies, Lion's Mane extract mixed with cancer cells in a test tube causes their faster deathand. "Coming out of the test tube" showed similar properties in a study on colon cancer mice. An extract from this fungus reduced the spread of cancer to the lungs by 69% .

And further there is nowhere for it to "come out". - no human studies. We don't know how the extract affects cancer in the human body, so approach with caution the declarations of some manufacturers who are keen to mention the anti-cancer properties of this mushroom.

Is it worth it or not?

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The above studies may have surprised you - rats were fattened and scared, and women were given cookies. As you can see, the scientific literature here is still at an early stage. Given that there are no indications yet that Lion's Mane supplementation would be harmful, it is best to see for yourself whether Lion's Mane will awaken the lion in you.

The popularity of adaptogenic mushrooms is growing - and for good reason. While we in Poland are just learning to drink coffee with them, in Asia, gourmet recipes are being created, mushroom creams are being spread, and even teeth are being brushed with them. Not to mention serving them to patients in hospitalsand.

Try. Not sure how, with what or when? Read on.

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Dosage

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The most commonly recommended daily dosage is 500 to 3000 mg Lion's Mane extract per day. Do not exceed 3,000 mg in a daily serving, as the effects of higher amounts of the extract on the human body are unknownand. 

Various portions have been used in scientific studies, but the range mentioned appears to be safe and well tolerated . Consumption is best divided into 2-3 servings throughout the day, ensuring the body has continuous access to the active ingredients.

Lion's Mane in the morning or evening?

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Lion's Mane is best taken in the morning until early afternoon (until around 2pm). This gives the fungus a chance to 'kick in' and gradually release the active ingredients throughout the day.

Make sure you are systematic - it is key. You can take 3,000 mg every few days and it will be less effective in its effects than, say, 1,500 mg a day. Establish consistent times of consumption and stick to them.

How long to take Lion's Mane?

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Lion's Mane mushrooms are best taken daily for a minimum of 4 weeks  in a daily serving of 1500 mg. Adaptogenic mushrooms take time to take effect and regularity is key.

Scientists do not clearly indicate if and when breaks should be taken while taking Lion's Mane. However, as a precaution, some fungotherapy or phytotherapy specialists (these are natural methods of supporting the body) recommend a minimum weekly break in the consumption of this fungus every few weeks.

When will I see results?

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It's understandable - you are taking mushrooms and would like to feel the effects straight away. According to scientific studies, you have to wait about 4 weeks for an improvement in mood, for a change in health parameters (e.g. a reduction in cholesterol) four to six weeks, and for an improvement in the functioning of the nervous system even some monthsand.

Responding to the effects depends on your expectations and the problem you are facing. And remember, if you don't notice an improvement and the problem persists, contact your doctor. 

Contraindications

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Contraindications to the use of Lion's Mane includeand:

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• pregnancy,
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• breastfeeding,
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• age under 18 years old,
• exposure to food or drink,
• allergy to glycerol,
• allergy to fungi or susceptibility to allergies,
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• planned surgery,
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If in doubt - consult your doctor.

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Side effects

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Side effects from consuming Lion's Mane are rareand. They usually occur when the person consuming it has an allergy or does not follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

The most common side effects areand:

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• gastrointestinal complaints (abdominal pain, nausea),
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• allergic reactions,
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• interactions with medications (anticoagulants and immunosuppressants).
• interactions with medications (anticoagulants and immunosuppressants).

No negative side effects have been observed in humans in scientific studies when using doses that are currently available from manufacturers of mushroom preparations.

Recommended products

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Natural support

LION'S MANE, Hedgehog fungus

5.0

• Active ingredients: Extract of soplós Mane (Lion’s Mane)
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• Form: powder
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• Packaging: 30 g or 100 g
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• Dose: 1 scoop 3 times daily
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• Sufficient for: 60 or 200 days
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See price

Product description

Sopl’s Mane will work well for people who’re in need of a natural boost and motivation during daily tasks. If you’re physically or mentally active, Lion’s Mane will have a positive effect on your energy, motivation and can influence your well-being.

Lion’s Mane shows the potential to support immunity, reduce inflammation and support nervous system recovery.

Pros and cons

Sopl’s Mane will work well for people who’re in need of a natural boost and motivation during daily tasks. If you’re physically or mentally active, Lion’s Mane will have a positive effect on your energy, motivation and can influence your well-being.

Lion’s Mane shows the potential to support immunity, reduce inflammation and support nervous system recovery.

Additional information

Sopl’s Mane will work well for people who’re in need of a natural boost and motivation during daily tasks. If you’re physically or mentally active, Lion’s Mane will have a positive effect on your energy, motivation and can influence your well-being.

Lion’s Mane shows the potential to support immunity, reduce inflammation and support nervous system recovery.

User review

Sopl’s Mane will work well for people who’re in need of a natural boost and motivation during daily tasks. If you’re physically or mentally active, Lion’s Mane will have a positive effect on your energy, motivation and can influence your well-being.

Lion’s Mane shows the potential to support immunity, reduce inflammation and support nervous system recovery.

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For athletes

Shroom Force Sport cordyceps mushrooms and adaptogens

4.5

Composition: Cordyceps sinensis extract, green tea, ashwagandha, membranous astragalus, gógór, grape seed extract

Form: capsules

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Packaging: 30 or 60 capsules

Dose: 3 capsules daily before training

Sufficient for: 10 or 20 days

See price

Product description

Shroom Force is a natural performance and function support blend based on a combination of cordyceps mushroom and plant extractsós. The composition is recommended for physically active people and anyone who needs to raise their energy levels in life.

Pros and cons

Shroom Force is a natural performance and function support blend based on a combination of cordyceps mushroom and plant extractsós. The composition is recommended for physically active people and anyone who needs to raise their energy levels in life.

Additional information

Shroom Force is a natural performance and function support blend based on a combination of cordyceps mushroom and plant extractsós. The composition is recommended for physically active people and anyone who needs to raise their energy levels in life.

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{ product:1Th4sm4aRoY1E2FGvGn5QS }} 

How to choose the best Lion's Mane?

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You can choose from different forms of this mushroom: drinks, capsules, dried or raw mushroom. But - there are mushrooms and "mushrooms", i.e. standardised extracts or siano. When choosing a coneflower preparation, pay attention to several factors to choose the best quality product.

• Extract. A concentrated form, such as an extract, is 10 times more potent than the ground mushroom.
• The extract is the most potent form of the mushroom.
• Standardisation and DER. With these parameters, you know which raw material and the amount of the active ingredient - definitely not hay.

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• Daily dose. Choose extracts with a daily dose of 1,500 mg - this is a frequently used dose in scientific studies.

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Popular combinations of mushrooms and adaptogens

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Scientific research suggests that synergistic effects between adaptogenic mushrooms may provide benefits that are not achieved by consuming them individuallyand. A mixture of mushrooms can have a more effective adaptogenic and tonic effect, as well as reducing stress, fatigue and stimulating the immune systemand.

Lion's Mane is liked with:

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• chaga,
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• reishi,
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• cordyceps,
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• adaptogens, e.g. ashwagandha, rhodiola montana,
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Lion's Mane - expert opinions

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See also:

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• Adaptogens
• Maccharide
• Caffeine
• Reishi
• Hogweed
• Cordyceps
• Ashwagandha

Summary

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