Lion’s Mane Benefits | What Is It Good For & How to Take It

Lion’s Mane is a functional mushroom traditionally used for medical purposes, providing potential health benefits such as improved focus, mood and digestive health. It’s often taken as a tincture, capsules or a powder mixed into beverages.

To help you understand a little more about Lion’s Mane benefits, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to explain what they are, the scientifically-supported health benefits they may provide and how best to take it. While results of use may vary, this mushroom is among the most heavily researched functional mushrooms in the world.

What is Lion’s Mane?

Lion’s Mane, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, is a mushroom named for its shaggy, fur-like appearance that resembles a lion’s mane. It typically grows on hardwood trees throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.

While medicinal mushrooms have been a part of Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries, the Lion’s Mane mushroom has reportedly been used for its health benefits for thousands of years. Lion’s Mane, along with other functional mushrooms, has recently gained popularity in the West for its incredible effect on wellness.

You can take a Lion’s Mane tincture, though some choose to consume the mushroom via capsules/powders or by eating the mushroom itself. While the mushroom is considered a culinary delicacy, taking the mushroom in these secondary forms won’t provide the same effect on your wellbeing as in a tincture, as Lion’s Mane requires an alcohol and water extraction process to maximise the health benefits.

How does Lion’s Mane work?

So, how does this fascinating mushroom actually work? Well, Lion’s Mane contains two main bioactive compounds: hericenones and erinacines. These bioactive compounds (chemicals found in plants or food which have an effect on our bodies) have been shown to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain, according to a study by Chen et al. in 2015. NGF is a protein important for growing, maintaining and repairing nerve cells. These nerve cells are responsible for transmitting messages between the brain and the body. By promoting NGF production, Lion’s Mane may support the growth and function of brain cells, which can potentially lead to heightened focus and cognitive function.

What are the health benefits of Lion’s Mane?

There are many potential health benefits to taking Lion’s Mane, ranging from better digestion and stronger immune support to enhanced cognitive and mental well-being - many of these benefits are backed by emerging scientific studies. That said, research is still developing, and more human trials are needed to fully understand the health impact of Lion’s Mane.

1. Cognitive & Nerve Support

Supports memory, focus and reduces brain fog: Studies by academics such as Docherty et al., 2023 show that Lion’s Mane may improve performance speed and reduce stress, benefiting the mind by providing heightened levels of focus. When it comes to the extraction process, a standard dual-extraction provides the most potent tinctures, allowing the body to best absorb the Lion’s Mane and reap the cognitive benefits.
Improves cognitive function: Docherty et al. also suggest that taking Lion’s Mane improves cognitive function, affecting learning and memory consolidation. It may also improve speed of performance and exert a stress-reduction effect.
Protects nerve cells: Lion’s Mane is said to stimulate NGF, which helps repair and grow nerve cells – the cells responsible for bodily functions like breathing, digestion and movement.

2. Mood & Mental Health

Reduces anxiety and stress: There is evidence to suggest that Lion’s Mane can reduce anxiety levels. In a 4-week trial taking place in Japan, Nagano et al. (2010) reported reductions in depression and anxiety among women experiencing menopausal symptoms and sleep problems.
Improves low mood and depression: Anxiety and depression often go hand in hand. Lion’s Mane can have an impact on low mood or symptoms of depression due to the anti-inflammatory effect of the mushroom. Findings in a study conducted by Ryu et al. (2018), show that Lion’s Mane may support the regeneration of brain cells, which could help influence more stable mood levels.
Alleviates menopause-related mood swings: Menopause can bring about changes in mood and mental clarity. Some studies suggest taking Lion’s Mane will result in improvements in anxiety and depressive symptoms for those experiencing menopause.

3. Digestive & Immune Support

Provides gut barrier protection & an anti-inflammatory effect: According to Priori et al., 2023, the Lion’s Mane mushroom may support gut health, which may indirectly support cognition/mood. A study by Vidhyalakshmi et al., 2024 suggests the mushroom also contains probiotics, which provide a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut.
Supports microbiome diversity: It’s been reported that Lion’s Mane can improve microbiome diversity and link to health benefits as a result. They also act as a prebiotic (essentially the ‘food’ of healthy bacteria), further improving gut health.
Improves immunomodulation: Lion’s Mane could impact immunomodulation, meaning it may contribute to improving and bolstering the immune system.

4. Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory Effects

Provides antioxidant / Anti-inflammatory effects: Lab and animal studies suggest Lion’s Mane extracts reduce oxidative stress, regulate inflammatory signalling and protect nerve cells from damage. The mushroom contains antioxidant compounds which protect cells. Studies like that of Ghosh et al., 2021 report that Lion’s Mane supports good antimicrobial activity, helping to stop the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses.
Demonstrates effects seen in vitro and in vivo models: The benefits have been observed both in lab cell studies and in animal studies, demonstrating the mushroom’s potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
Improves circulation: Some research (Torres-Gómez & Guevara, 2025) points to the idea that medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane may contribute to better blood circulation, which supports overall health.

Are the benefits of Lion’s Mane different for men vs women?

Functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane can be beneficial for both men and women. However, there are some differences in how it can affect the body depending on the specific health needs unique to each sex. It’s important to remember that current sex-specific research is limited; early findings are promising, but more diverse studies are needed to confirm any concrete differences between Lion’s Mane’s benefits for either sex.

Benefits for Women	Benefits for Men
Menopause support: During menopause, estrogen declines. This can impact the brain in many ways, including brain fog and low mood. Lion’s Mane stimulating NGF may help alleviate these effects. Learn more about other functional mushrooms that can support menopause . Note that Lion’s Mane is not a hormone replacement, and more research is needed to understand the impact fully.	Stress response: Men might also benefit from alleviating stress through the production of NGF. Some men take Lion’s Mane for improved sleep and reduced brain fog, each of which contributes to lower stress levels.
Hormonal balance (emerging area): Because Lion’s Mane may influence neurotrophic factors (like NGF) and support a balanced stress response, it may help stabilise mood and cognitive clarity during PMS or period-related fatigue.	Testosterone support (indirect): Some men report using Lion’s Mane to support hair growth. Because Lion’s Mane may help reduce stress (and chronic stress can contribute to lower testosterone) there’s speculation that it could indirectly support testosterone levels. This is based on anecdotal reports and not confirmed by scientific evidence.
Improved brain health in women As women age, changes in hormone levels, stress, and lifestyle can influence memory, focus, and overall cognitive health. Some people explore natural approaches, including medicinal mushrooms, as part of their routine.	Supports brain health As men may also experience cognitive decline as they age, Lion’s Mane can be used by older men who are looking to improve their overall brain health.

What are the most commonly reported benefits of Lion’s Mane?

At Mogo Farm, our Lion’s Mane mushroom drops receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, with customers consistently reporting powerful effects on focus & mental clarity. Long-term users say the tincture has become an essential part of their daily routine.

Our customers frequently report benefits such as:

Improved focus and mental clarity
Increased productivity
Reduced feelings of anxiety and depersonalisation
Less brain fog
Better sleep quality
Increased alertness
Enhanced memory
Higher energy levels
Improved overall quality of life
Better mood

Explore first-hand reviews of our Lion’s Mane mushroom tincture and see how it’s supporting people with their everyday wellbeing.

Does the Lion’s Mane mushroom cause side effects?

Although research on Lion’s Mane is more substantial than for many other functional mushrooms, research into Lion’s Mane mushrooms is still limited, so it’s important to check with a medical professional before taking it. Taking Lion’s Mane may cause side effects. However, everyone is different and will react differently to substances, so it is especially important to seek advice if you have underlying health conditions or take other supplements or medications.

Take particular care if you:

Take prescription medication: Taking Lion’s Mane with certain medications might cause unwanted side effects. These effects are not yet fully studied, but combining Lion’s Mane with particular medications could amplify or reduce their effects, so it’s important to speak to a medical professional before you start taking any food supplement.
Have a food allergy: Although it’s uncommon, some people might experience an allergic reaction to mushrooms or fungi. If you have a mushroom allergy or sensitivity, it’s best to avoid functional mushrooms altogether.
Are pregnant or breastfeeding: As there aren’t any in-depth studies about the effects of using Lion’s Mane during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s advised to avoid taking it unless directed by a medical professional.

If you’re not sure if taking Lion’s Mane is right for you, always consult a GP or medical professional first.

How can you take Lion’s Mane?

There are lots of different ways to take Lion’s Mane supplements, including tinctures (also referred to as ‘drops’), powders, capsules, and teas.

Mushroom tinctures are the most effective for absorption, quality, and are very easy to use. Take 2ml daily, either under the tongue for faster absorption or mixed into a drink like coffee, tea, or water. You can also take it with meals, as some compounds may absorb better with healthy fats. For best results, use it in the morning to support focus, clarity, productivity and calm throughout the day.

Key Takeaways

Lion’s Mane is a well-researched functional mushroom which, when supplemented, provides potential benefits for cognition, mood, digestion, immunity, and inflammation.
Scientific studies suggest it may support memory, focus, nerve health, and stress reduction, though more human research is still needed.
Our customers commonly report improved clarity, better sleep, reduced anxiety, and higher energy.
Tinctures are the most effective way of taking Lion’s Mane. They offer the best absorption and are an easy way to take Lion’s Mane daily.
While generally well tolerated, individuals with allergies, medication use, or pregnancy/breastfeeding should seek medical advice first.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Benefit Studies & References

References:

Chen, Y-W., Lin, P-Y., Tu, K-Y., Cheng, Y-S., Wu, C-K. and Tseng, P-T., 2015. Significantly lower nerve growth factor levels in patients with major depressive disorder than in healthy subjects: A meta-analysis and systematic review. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 11, pp.925–933. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4389916/
Docherty, S., Doughty, F.L. & Smith, E.F., 2023. The Acute and Chronic Effects of of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress and Mood in Young Adults: A Double-Blind, Parallel Groups, Pilot Study. Nutrients, 15(22), article 4842. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38004235/
Nagano, M., Shimizu, K., Kondo, R., Hayashi, C., Sato, D., Kitagawa, K. & Ohnuki, K., 2010. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomedical Research, 31(4), pp. 231–237. Available at: https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/biomedres/31/4/31_4_231/_article
Ryu, S., Kim, H. G., Kim, J. Y., Kim, S. Y., & Cho, K.-O. (2018). Hericium erinaceus extract reduces anxiety and depressive behaviors by promoting hippocampal neurogenesis in the adult mouse brain. Journal of Medicinal Food, 21(2), 174–180. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29091526/
Priori, E. C., Ratto, D., De Luca, F., Sandionigi, A., Savino, E., Giammello, F., Romeo, M., Brandalise, F., Roda, E., & Rossi, P. (2023). Hericium erinaceus extract exerts beneficial effects on gut–neuroinflammaging–cognitive axis in elderly mice. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10813749/
Vidhyalakshmi, R. R., Ramya, S., & Kamatchi, N. (2024). Role of Hericium erinaceus as a probiotic stimulant [Preprint]. Research Square. Available at: https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-5710767/v1
Ghosh, S., Nandi, S., Banerjee, A., Sarkar, S., Chakraborty, N., & Acharya, K. (2021). Prospecting medicinal properties of Lion’s mane mushroom. Journal of Food Biochemistry, Available at: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jfbc.13833
Torres-Gómez, M., & Guevara, M. (2025). Health-stimulating properties of medicinal mushrooms, their bioactive benefits (treat cardiovascular and respiratory diseases), and their biogeographical distribution. In Fungal Macromolecule Applications in Life Sciences (pp. 173–188). Academic Press. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/chapter/edited-volume/abs/pii/B9780443301025000089

What are the health benefits of Lion’s Mane mushrooms?