Lion’s Mane Mushroom Benefits for Memory, Focus and Mood

Lion’s mane mushroom earned its common name because some say it looks like a lion’s mane. This fluffy white mushroom is also a powerful nootropic with science-backed benefits.

You might have heard of people mixing lion’s mane into their coffee or supplementing with lion’s mane mushroom capsules. As it turns out, if you want to remember better, age slower and protect your brain cells, lion’s mane may be worth your time. Here’s what you should know, including a few tips to embrace the neuroprotective benefits of this mushroom.

Lion’s mane mushroom benefits

With roots in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), lion’s mane mushroom (botanical name: Hericium erinaceus) is also known as yamabushitake, hedgehog mushroom and houtou^[1]. Based on human and animal studies, this mushroom has powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunostimulant properties.

Supports brain health

Your brain naturally slows down over time. Many symptoms associated with aging—like memory loss and lack of focus—are caused by factors in your nervous system like shrinking neurons and damaged brain cells. Animal studies show that lion’s mane mushroom extract may actually support brain health by stimulating the creation of two important compounds: nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).^[2][3]

NGF and BDNF are proteins that stimulate the production of new cells and strengthen existing ones. NGF also plays an important role in forming myelin, the sheath around nerve cells that helps brain cells do their job. BDNF increases brain plasticity, which helps your brain cells stay resilient in the face of stress or aging.

May improve cognitive function

In 2008, a double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial found that lion’s mane effectively improved cognitive function in a randomized group of 15 older adults.^[4] Rodent studies found that lion’s mane potentially may have protective effects on brain cells, improve memory and promote the creation of new neurons.^[5][6]

NGF and BDNF are proteins that stimulate the production of new cells and strengthen existing ones. NGF also plays an important role in forming myelin, the sheath around nerve cells that helps brain cells do their job. BDNF increases brain plasticity, which helps your brain cells stay resilient in the face of stress or aging.

May improve mood and focus

In 2010, in the largest study to date, researchers examined the effects of lion’s mane mushroom on 30 women over a four-week period.^[7] The participants were randomly assigned to a test group or a control group, and they were given lion’s mane mushroom cookies or placebo cookies (science!). At the end of the four weeks, the lion’s mane mushroom group reported an improvement in mood.

This was a small study, and clinical research on lion’s mane is limited. However, these findings complement a growing body of research that suggests natural treatments can help you feel more balanced.

Lion’s mane may boost focus, too. Reduced inflammation improves blood flow, which provides your brain with more oxygen. The side effect of more oxygen in your brain is better brain performance. The antioxidants in lion’s mane may help promote learning and memory, possibly by strengthening your brain cells and stimulating the growth of new neurons.^[8][9]

How to take lion’s mane mushroom

Lion’s mane mushrooms have been a part of traditional Chinese medicine for millennia, as a food with functional benefits. But what’s the best way to add it to your diet?

How to cook lion’s mane mushroom

You can prepare and cook lion’s mane mushroom like any other soft-fleshed mushroom. It tends to be in season in the late summer through fall. When cooked, it has a flavor and texture similar to crab or lobster.

If you don’t live in an area where this mushroom is available in farmers markets or the grocery store, you can also take lion’s mane in capsule form.

As with any supplement, lion’s mane mushroom delivers more benefits when taken consistently, and dietary supplements are generally more convenient than cooking. Keep reading for our top recommendations.

Lion’s mane mushroom capsules (and other supplements)

Lion’s mane supplements are available as capsules, extracts and powders. However, you need to do your research and make sure your supplementation comes from a reputable company.

You should be able to determine how much of the medicinal bioactive compound you’re getting in your supplement and how much is actually filler.

Start with half a serving and slowly increase your dosage based on how your body responds. Talk to your health care provider for medical advice before you add anything new to your supplement routine.

Other ways to bolster brain health

Clinical trials on the benefits of lion’s mane are limited. But remember: One of the key benefits of lion’s mane mushroom is that it may stimulate NGF and BDNF levels. For a potent way to boost BDNF levels, switch to Bulletproof NeuroMaster. It’s made with coffee fruit extract, which contains compounds shown to support memory, focus and healthy aging. To start your smart routine, take one capsule in the morning.

Did you know? Certain types of mushrooms are traditionally used to support immune health, including shiitake. Take advantage of ingredients to bolster your immune system defenses with Bulletproof Immune Defense Collagen Protein. Each packet contains a blend of shiitake mushrooms, 500 mg of vitamin C and 7 grams of collagen protein. Mix one packet into 8 ounces of water daily.

Read this next: Does Your Gut Control Your Immune System? The Science Behind the Connection

This article was originally written on March 10, 2022 and has been updated with new content.