Best Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplements (Expert Review)

Updated on February 4, 2024
 by — reviewed by Jason Williams, PhD (Contributor: George Collins / Editor: Yoko Hill)
Expert review of the best Lion's Mane mushroom supplements highlighting their natural health benefits.

In this article, we reviewed the best Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements. We conducted an expert analysis of Lion’s Mane Mushroom, giving you everything you want to know, from its benefits and recommended dosage to its side effects.

Do you want to improve your cognitive function and memory?

Or maybe reduce inflammation and arthritis symptoms?

If so, you may want to consider taking a Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplement.

Lion’s Mane is a mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

Recently, it has become popular in the Western world as a natural way to improve health.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium Erinaceus) is an edible mushroom derived from the tooth fungus family. It’s known for its unique fruiting body, which appears as long, mane-like, shaggy spines.

Besides its unique appearance, research has found that Lion’s Mane Mushroom may possess other unique qualities. Containing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (1), Lion’s Mane can be used as a natural treatment for healing and improving health and well-being.

With its growth in popularity, Lion’s Mane can be found in either its raw form or as a powered supplement for easy ingestion. It’s commonly used for its properties which studies have shown may be beneficial in treating symptoms of anxiety (2), boosting the immune system, increasing brain function, and reducing inflammation (3).

What’s the Best Lion’s Mane Supplement?

To maximize the benefits of Lion’s Mane mushroom and make it more potent, it should be combined with vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients. That’s why our top recommendation for Lion’s Mane-containing supplements is Mind Lab Pro, a supplement that not only contains Lion’s Mane but also other ingredients that all work in synergy to have profound effects on brain health, cognition, and overall well-being. Mind Lab Pro packs a powerful punch with 11 ingredients that work in synergy.

Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Mood-Boosting

Studies have shown that the fruiting body of Lion’s Mane Mushroom promotes the development of neurotrophic effects, which can be characterized as therapeutic strategies that work to promote the growth and development of neurons in the brain (4).

The result of its interaction induces nerve growth. Conditions such as depression are characterized as neuropsychiatric disorders. Its effect can lead to experiencing fatigue, low mood, lack of concentration, and poor sleep.

Studies have shown that depression is associated with the abnormal neural plasticity processes that occur in the brain. Maladaptive neuroplasticity leads to a disruption of functions which causes symptoms of depression by altering levels of neurotrophic factors (5).

These same studies show that the enhancement of neurotrophic signaling can help to improve symptoms of depression. Lion’s Mane Mushroom’s neurotrophic effects have been shown to positively impact nerve and brain health.

The properties possessed by Lion’s Mane Mushroom may be effective in treating neurological disorders such as depression. It works by regulating and promoting the development and plasticity of neural pathways. The result of its effect is a reduction of depression symptoms, leading to an improved mood.

Supports Cognitive Function

Lion’s Mane Mushroom contains neurotrophic effects that have proven to be effective in stimulating nerve growth within the brain. Lion’s Mane is considered a nootropic that provides cognitive-enhancing effects.

Significant active compounds found in Lion’s Mane Mushrooms are hericenones and erinacines. Both interact with the central nervous system to stimulate nerve growth. Erinancines are able to cross the blood-brain barrier, which is core to promoting the production and regeneration of neurons.

In promoting nerve growth factor synthesis, Lion’s Mane supplements may be able to repair damage and stimulate nerve growth factors.

The effects of this process result in the boost of neurotransmitters and their signaling potential. Subsequently, this may result in improved cognitive functioning such as improved memory, recall, mood, attention, and a reduction of depression symptoms and brain fog.

Circulatory Health

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is said to have adverse effects in improving circulatory health. The active compounds in Lion’s Mane Mushrooms may effectively support the heart.

Studies have found that the mushroom may be effective in preventing heart disease (6).

It works by inhibiting the increase of LDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is characterized as bad cholesterol, and increasing the level of HDL cholesterol is characterized as good cholesterol. This has been shown to effectively lower triglyceride levels which improve fat metabolism. In doing so, Lion’s Mane Mushroom may reduce the risk of heart disease.

This consequently reduces the risk of health concerns related to heart diseases such as clots and strokes.

Digestive Health

Lion’s Mane Mushroom contains powerful active compounds such as polysaccharides. The presence of these beta-glucans in the body significantly promotes gut health and supports the immune system.

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms are also rich in antioxidants. Their antioxidant properties help protect tissues and cells from the damage caused by oxidative stress due to free radicals. Studies show that antioxidants effectively prevent and reduce inflammation (7).

Antioxidants act as free radical scavengers. Their activity helps to eliminate free radicals to ensure that cells and tissue are protected. Research conducted on animals shows that Lion’s Mane Mushrooms’ antioxidant effect reduced inflammation and prevented tissue damage in the small intestine by protecting the stomach’s lining (8).

Nerve Recovery

The central nervous system resides in the brain, the spinal cord, and other nerves throughout the body. It’s a complex system that impacts all areas of the body. The system works to send and transmit signals throughout the body, which essentially interact with all bodily functions.

Damage to the brain or the nervous system can result in paralysis and cognitive impairment. Studies suggest that Lion’s Mane Mushroom contains properties that encourage the regeneration and repair of damaged nerve cells by stimulating the synthesis of nerve growth factors (9).

The stimulation of nerve growth factors contributes to the maintenance and restoration of nerves. It’s a protein that works to strengthen neurons and ultimately speed up nerve recovery.

Pure Nootropics Lion’s Mane 8:1 Mushroom Extract Capsules

Pure Nootropics ensure that their mushroom extract contains only organic and whole fruiting bodies to ensure a high-quality product. It contains a higher concentration of the mushroom’s fruiting body for advanced effects.

Benefits

Pure Nootropics’ Lion’s Mane supplement contains an 8:1 ratio dual extract.

This ensures that active compounds such as hericenones and erinacines are brought out from the fruiting body to provide their full effect in improving health. The 8:1 ratio is considered to be suitable in the support of enhanced focus and better cognitive functioning.

Reviews have reported satisfactory results of improved mental clarity and a boost in energy and mood.

Transparency – Pure Nootropics’ mushroom extracts only contain organic and whole fruiting bodies. Their products are thoroughly tested and guaranteed pure. They provide valid certification to represent the quality of their product and to provide transparency.

Benefits Summary:

  • May provide mood support
  • Supports overall cognitive health

Dosage

Pure Nootropics’ Lion’s Mane extract contains 8:1 organic Lion’s Mane Mushroom extract and comes in a capsule form. A bottle contains 60 capsules. One capsule contains 500 mg of extract. The recommended dose for an adult is 1 capsule to be taken daily. Alternatively, their Lion’s Mane Mushroom also comes in a 1:1 powder form.

Side Effects

Lion’s Mane Mushroom extract is generally well tolerated and considered safe to use following the recommended dosage. If you are allergic to or hypersensitive to mushrooms, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 18, it’s advised that you don’t use this product.

If you have any existing medical conditions, it’s advised that you consult with your healthcare practitioner before using Lion’s Mane Mushroom.

What to Look for When Buying Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplements

  • Extraction ratio – The extraction ratio of a supplement refers to how much of the raw substance is used to produce the finished product. The extraction ratio doesn’t refer to the concentration of the extract. The most effective Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements won’t use more than an 8:1 extraction ratio.
  • Authenticity – Be sure to choose a Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplement that is made exclusively from the fruiting body, as this is the part of the mushroom that contains active compounds.
  • Verification – A high-quality and authentic product will always feature valid verification or a valid testing report.

What are Nootropics?

Nootropics, also known as smart drugs, are substances that are believed to contain properties that provide cognitive enhancement benefits.

There are two categories of nootropics, these are categorized as natural and synthetic. Natural nootropics derive from natural substances such as herbs, foods, and mushrooms.

Synthetic nootropics are pharmaceutical substances that are made to produce enhancing effects, Nootropics can be used for a variety of reasons, including improving memory, boosting attention and concentration, boosting energy, and generally improving cognitive performance.

The core difference between natural and synthetic nootropics is their level of safety. Whilst all medications and treatments, whether natural or synthetic carry the risk of side effects, synthetic nootropics have a higher risk of experiencing side effects, and there may be a risk of misuse, which can lead to tolerance or dependence.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom as a Nootropic

Lion’s Mane Mushroom contains several active compounds that produce protective and stimulating effects on the brain. The combination of its activities has significant cognitive-enhancing effects. It contains potent active compounds, including erinacines, mycelium, hericenones, and polysaccharides. All of which are associated with having cognitive health benefits.

The active compounds work by interacting with the central nervous system, which subsequently creates a host of effects that work to improve different areas of the brain and the body.

How Does It Work?

The active compounds found in Lion’s Mane Mushroom effectively cross the blood-brain barrier. In doing so, they stimulate neurotrophic effects and nerve growth.

Its effect on the central nervous system promotes the regeneration and development of healthy functioning neurons and nerve cells that make up the brain and nervous system. Its effects are significant in the generation of new neural pathways and neuroplasticity. This helps the brain to recover quickly, improve signaling and ultimately improve cognitive functions.

Reddit Experiences

ArtificialBrain808:

“I feel a noticeable mood lift and anti-inflammatory effect from taking it sporadically.”

Jeezuspete:

“I noticed tremendous improvements cognitively when I started taking the capsules daily.”

Where to Buy Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplements?

Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements are available online or in health stores where you can find other vitamins and minerals. Though they are a natural substance, anything that can interact with your body could potentially cause side effects.

Hence, when it comes to buying Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements, it’s important to ensure that you’re buying them from a reputable vendor. It is also important to ensure that the supplements contain the mushroom’s fruiting body as this part contains the active compounds.

Try to look for a product that contains only Lion’s Mane Mushroom extract and is ideally organic. To ensure that a vendor is authentic, always check that they have valid and relevant certifications.

A supplier that has been third-party tested or lab-tested is considered to be more reliable.

It’s also advised that you do some of your own research by looking at reviews to ensure that the product is right for you. Some reliable places to buy the best Lion’s Mane supplements are Pure Nootropics and Mind Nutrition.

They both provide natural, authentic, and non-GMO supplements containing the mushroom’s fruiting body without any fillers. Both are lab and third-party tested with transparent certification on their website, so you shouldn’t experience any problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Your questions answered.

Do Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplements Get You High?

Lion’s Mane Mushroom is not psychoactive. Therefore, it cannot get you high. However, it can stimulate the improvement of your cognitive function, which may make you feel brighter and lighter. Unlike some synthetic nootropics, Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements contain no risk of developing tolerance or dependence.

Are Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplements Safe?

Whilst Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements are generally considered safe to eat in line with the recommended dosage, like with any natural substance, there is a risk of experiencing allergies. Common side effects may include itchy skin.

Conclusion

If you are considering trying Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements as an alternative treatment, consult a healthcare practitioner to ensure that you get the right dosage.

Pure Nootropics offer the best Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements. It contains extracts of the fruiting body, which contain various active compounds and antioxidant properties. Pure Nootropics provide natural and reliably sourced products with valid certification and third-party-lab-tested supplements.

Studies and research show that Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplements contain compounds that contribute to improving health and well-being. The studies show that it may be an effective alternative therapeutic treatment and nootropic for improving cognitive functioning and supporting the central nervous system.

With such a broad range of supplements available online and in health stores, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the choice. However, it’s important to ensure that you look for a product that works for you, offers the benefits you’re looking for, and contains only high-quality ingredients.

As a natural substance, you’ll want something that is good for you. You can use this review as a guide to refer back to when you come to look for the right Lion’s Mane Mushroom supplement for you. Or, you can try out the trusted products reviewed in this post.


Sources, Studies, and Scientific Research
  1. Kushairi, Naufal et al. “Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. Suppresses H2O2-Induced Oxidative Damage and LPS-Induced Inflammation in HT22 Hippocampal Neurons and BV2 Microglia.” Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 8,8 261. 1 Aug. 2019, doi:10.3390/antiox8080261 ↩
  2. Nagano, Mayumi et al. “Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake.” Biomedical research (Tokyo, Japan) vol. 31,4 (2010): 231-7. doi:10.2220/biomedres.31.231 ↩
  3. Mori, Koichiro et al. “The Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Lion’s Mane Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) in a Coculture System of 3T3-L1 Adipocytes and RAW264 Macrophages.” International journal of medicinal mushrooms vol. 17,7 (2015): 609-18. doi:10.1615/intjmedmushrooms.v17.i7.10 ↩
  4. Lai, Puei-Lene et al. “Neurotrophic properties of the Lion’s mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia.” International journal of medicinal mushrooms vol. 15,6 (2013): 539-54. doi:10.1615/intjmedmushr.v15.i6.30 ↩
  5. Yang, Tao et al. “The Role of BDNF on Neural Plasticity in Depression.” Frontiers in cellular neuroscience vol. 14 82. 15 Apr. 2020, doi:10.3389/fncel.2020.00082 ↩
  6. Rahman, Mohammad Azizur et al. “Inhibitory effect on in vitro LDL oxidation and HMG Co-A reductase activity of the liquid-liquid partitioned fractions of Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Persoon (lion’s mane mushroom).” BioMed research international vol. 2014 (2014): 828149. doi:10.1155/2014/828149 ↩
  7. Arulselvan, Palanisamy et al. “Role of Antioxidants and Natural Products in Inflammation.” Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity vol. 2016 (2016): 5276130. doi:10.1155/2016/5276130 ↩
  8. Wong, J.-Y., Abdulla, M. A., Raman, J., Phan, C.-W., Kuppusamy, U. R., Golbabapour, S., & Sabaratnam, V. (2013). Gastroprotective effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroomhericium erinaceus(bull.:fr.) pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae) extract against ethanol-induced ulcer in rats. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/492976 ↩
  9. Mori, Koichiro et al. “Nerve growth factor-inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells.” Biological & pharmaceutical bulletin vol. 31,9 (2008): 1727-32. doi:10.1248/bpb.31.1727 ↩
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