Lion's mane effects
What Is Lion’s Mane Mushroom? A Beginner’s Guide
Medically Reviewed
Lion’s mane mushroom has long been used in Chinese and Japanese medical systems to promote overall health and wellness. Here’s what you might want to know.Tatjana Zlatkovic/StocksyMushrooms are having a moment. The global mushroom market was valued at a whopping $50.3 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow nearly 10 percent per year until 2030, according to a market analysis report by Grand View Research.
One mushroom making its way into the spotlight is the aptly named lion’s mane (also known as hedgehog mushroom). It’s a large, white, shaggy mushroom that resembles a full-grown lion’s mane, and while it’s not the prettiest fungus out there, people are mixing it into soups, brewing it into teas, taking it in tinctures, and swallowing it in capsule form, all in hopes of reaping its many potential health benefits.
History of Lion’s Mane
“Lion's mane, also known officially as Hericium erinaceus, is an edible fungus that has been used in East Asia for centuries as food and medicine,” says Monique Richard, a registered dietitian-nutritionist in Johnson City, Tennessee, and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
In Chinese and Japanese medical systems, lion’s mane is traditionally used to fortify the spleen, nourish the gut, and, currently, to treat cancer, per a research paper published March 2017 in the Journal of Restorative Medicine.
Because of its effects on the central nervous system, lion’s mane is also used in traditional Chinese medicine for insomnia and muscle weakness — symptoms of low qi (life energy force), according to the same paper.
Common Questions & Answers
What is lion’s mane good for?
Lion’s mane mushrooms contain many beneficial plant compounds. Research suggests these compounds may stimulate the growth of new brain cells, improve depression and anxiety, and support gut, heart, and immune health.
What side effects does lion’s mane have?
Fresh lion’s mane is generally well-tolerated. But there are some side effects associated with lion’s mane supplements, including abdominal discomfort, nausea, and skin rash.
It may also interact with blood-clotting medications (such as warfarin) and diabetes treatments.
Can I take lion’s mane every day?
Research on the safety and optimal dosing of lion’s mane supplements is lacking. So far, research suggests that lion’s mane supplements are generally well-tolerated and safe when taken orally up to 1 gram daily for up to 16 weeks.
Can lion’s mane make you sick?
Lion’s mane can make you sick if you’re allergic to mushrooms. Some research suggests that lion’s mane supplements may also cause abdominal discomfort, nausea, and skin rash.
How much lion’s mane should I take daily?
Universal guidelines haven’t been set for lion’s mane dosage. Taking up to 1 gram orally every day for up to 16 weeks may be safe and well-tolerated. It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to come up with your ideal dosage.
How Lion’s Mane Works
Many helpful plant compounds can be found in the lion's mane fruiting bodies (the part we recognize as the mushroom) and mycelium (the mushroom’s root-like structure).
“Lion’s mane contains a number of compounds that may have beneficial effects on the body, including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and nerve growth factors,” says Lindsay Delk, RDN, based in Houston, who specializes in the connection between food and mental health.
The active ingredients in lion's mane include polysaccharides, erinacines, hericerins, steroids, alkaloids, and lactones. “These ingredients help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and inflammation, and they [help to] promote the growth and regeneration of nerve cells,” Delk says.
In particular, lion’s mane has been linked with stimulating a protein known as nerve growth factor (NGF). “Nerve growth factor is essential for brain health and neuron conductivity,” Richard says. Neuron conductivity refers to the ability of nerves to transmit impulses through the nervous system.
Lion’s mane is also used to support heart and immune health. “The polysaccharides may be the beneficial components in supporting cardiovascular and immune health, but many of the bioactive compounds together contribute to the potential benefits,” Richard says.
Where to Find Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
There are two primary categories of lion’s mane: food and supplements.
As a food, lion’s mane mushrooms frequently grow on dead and decaying trees throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, usually in late summer and fall, according to Forest Wildlife.
You can also purchase lion's mane in supplement form: capsule, liquid, tablet, or powder.
Fresh lion’s mane and lion’s mane supplements can be found online and in health food and grocery stores.
Possible Benefits of Lion’s Mane
This fungus can bring many potential health benefits to your diet. Here are a few noteworthy ones.
May Improve Brain Function
One noteworthy benefit of lion’s mane is its effect on the brain. Past research found that lion’s mane mushrooms contain hericenones and erinacines, two compounds that may stimulate the growth of brain cells in the lab.
The brain-health benefits may make lion’s mane a promising treatment for dementia.
In a study published in June 2020 in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, people with mild Alzheimer’s disease who took three 350 milligrams (mg) capsules of lion’s mane daily for 49 weeks saw significant improvements in brain health. Meanwhile, those who took a placebo experienced a decline in several markers of cognitive function.
Additional research is needed.
May Help Lower Depression and Anxiety
Lion's mane decreases inflammation, which may help alleviate depression, Delk says. Authors of a review published in December 2019 in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences of laboratory and preliminary studies on the effects of lion’s mane on the brain and mood in a small number of patients wrote they felt it had promise as an effective treatment for depression and encouraged further research.
Delk notes that lion’s mane may also help with anxiety. She points to a past study (included in the above review) in which women with nonspecific health complaints and diseases were given four cookies containing 0.
5 gram (g) of powdered lion’s mane daily for four weeks. Compared with the women who received placebo cookies, the lion’s mane group reported significantly less irritation and anxiety by the end of the study.
Because the study included only 30 women, it's unclear how these findings might apply to larger populations, or how lion's mane compares with mainstream therapies for anxiety, and research with larger sample sizes is needed.
May Support Digestive Health
Research done on test tube samples and mice suggests that lion’s mane may prevent the proliferation of H. pylori, a bacteria that can have negative effects on the gut lining. Research on humans is needed for scientists to fully understand the impact of lion’s mane mushrooms on our digestive system.
In a study published in 2019 in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, mice infected with H. pylori who were given lion’s mane extract ended up with lower levels of the bacteria in their stomachs than mice who weren’t given lion’s mane.
Meanwhile, a study published in May 2016 in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology reported that lion’s mane inhibited the growth of H. pylori in test tube samples.
Lion’s Mane Safety and Side Effects
In general, fresh lion’s mane carries few risks. Meanwhile, lion’s mane supplements are generally well-tolerated and noted as safe when up to 750 milligrams (mg) are taken orally daily for up to 16 weeks (some research has shown safety at higher doses), “but because research is limited, universal dosing recommendations have not been established [and potency differs in the preparation and source of mushroom],” Richard says.
“Each supplement will have specific dosing recommendations, and the range of lion’s mane content can be wide, from 300 mg and up,” she adds. For reference, 300 mg is 0.3 g.
Still, lion’s mane supplements bear some risks.
For example, a few people included in the 2020 in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience Alzheimer’s study reported abdominal discomfort, nausea, and skin rashes from taking 350 mg capsules three times a day.
The capsules contained 5 mg of lion’s mane per gram.
Lion’s mane may also slow blood clotting and blood sugar levels. For this reason, it may interact with blood-clotting medications and diabetes treatments, Richard says.
While rare, there’s always a possibility you’ll see the adverse effects we previously mentioned from fresh lion’s mane. Be sure to discuss with your healthcare provider whether it’s safe for you to take lion’s mane supplements, or eat fresh lion’s mane.
Who May Want to Try (and Avoid) Lion’s Mane
Whether you get it fresh or in a supplement, lion’s mane may offer perks for heart, brain, immune, and digestive health.
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid lion’s mane, because there isn’t enough safety information available yet, Delk says.
In addition, lion’s mane may slow blood clotting. This may cause excessive bleeding or increase your chances of bleeding, especially if you have a clotting disorder. “Anyone who is preparing for surgery or who has a bleeding disorder should avoid lion's mane,” Richard says.
And while some research suggests lion’s mane may help prevent oxidation of cholesterol in the arteries — part of the process that causes cholesterol to harden and become plaque in the arteries — Michelle Routhenstein, RDN, CDCES, a preventive cardiology dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist at Entirely Nourished in New York City, doesn’t recommend using lion’s mane if you have heart disease.
“Many individuals with heart disease or risk factors for heart disease may be taking several medications, like antidiabetic or anti-clotting medications, which can negatively interfere with lion’s mane,” she explains.
“We can prevent oxidation of cholesterol through other safe and effective science-based nutrition strategies,” Routhenstein adds.
Finally, don’t consume lion’s mane if you’re allergic or sensitive to mushrooms.
Access to Lion’s Mane
In temperate climates, you can forage for fresh lion’s mane mushrooms that grow on decaying hardwood trees throughout North America, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
If you’re not a forager with extensive training to be safe, check for fresh lion’s mane in grocery stores in your area. Availability varies depending on your geographical area and time of year, Richard says.
Lion’s mane supplements can be purchased online and in grocery and health food stores. The type you choose (capsule, powder, tincture, tablet, liquid) will depend on what’s available and which you prefer.
Be aware that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dietary supplements as food and not as drugs, which means that supplements don’t have to go through FDA approval before they’re sold, per the FDA. As a result, there’s always a risk that supplements contain hidden ingredients that make them less effective at best, and dangerous at worst.
When shopping, look for lion’s mane supplements that have been tested for safety by a third-party agency like NSF International, ConsumerLab, and U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP).
There are so many lion’s mane supplements on the market, it would be wise to meet with an integrative registered dietitian-nutritionist or your professional healthcare provider to evaluate your needs and identify a high-quality product that works for you, Richard says.
Tips for Getting Started With Lion’s Mane
If you’d like to try lion’s mane, first decide if you’re interested in taking it as a supplement, consuming it as a food, or both.
You have many options for eating lion’s mane as a food. Add it to soups, rice, quinoa, or pasta dishes, or sauté the mushroom with garlic and herbs. “Cook until the outside is slightly crispy to avoid potential bitterness,” Richard recommends.
Since fresh lion’s mane has an umami taste (savory and characteristic of broths and cooked meats) and fleshy texture, some people recommend using it as a replacement for seafood such as crab and lobster, Richard says.
If you’re intrigued by the potential health benefits of a lion’s mane supplement, consult your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian first. They will be able to address any potential interactions and contraindications you may encounter, Richard says.
Resources We Love on Lion’s Mane
Organizations
Forest Wildlife
Run by a group of wildlife enthusiasts, Forest Wildlife spearheads wildlife conservation campaigns.
Their website is a great place for information on mushrooms and any other fungus, plant, or animal you may be curious about.
The Mushroom Council
The Mushroom Council is a professional organization that promotes fresh mushrooms to consumers and the food service industry. Thanks to the council, mushrooms are honored and celebrated during National Mushroom Month throughout September. Peruse the organization’s website for mushroom news and events, info on mushroom varieties and sustainability, tips and tricks for mushroom preparation, and a variety of mushroom recipes.
Eat the Planet
Learn everything you need to know about foraging mushrooms and eating off the land through Eat the Planet. This site offers informational blog posts, videos, and a roundup of foraging tours throughout North America and the United Kingdom.
Online Shops
Mushroom Mountain
Find a variety of organic mushroom extracts and tinctures via Mushroom Mountain, a self-described “ecotourism hot spot for everyone interested in learning about the amazing world of fungi.
” If you want to grow your own mushrooms, they provide tools for that as well. They also offer mushroom cultivation, cooking and nutrition, and camping and survival classes and workshops.
Om Mushrooms
Based in Carlsbad, California, Om Mushrooms grows 11 species of mushrooms, which it then transforms into capsules, powders, broths, and other formats. Browse products by desired benefit (immune support, memory and focus, stress relief and sleep, and more). You can also find information about the various mushroom varieties, the benefits of functional mushrooms, and common mushroom myths.
Fungi Perfecti
This family-owned business is dedicated to promoting the cultivation of high-quality mushrooms. Fungi Perfecti sells a variety of mushroom supplements, gardening and foraging tools, and indoor mushroom growing kits. They also offer mushroom resources like articles and blogs, seminars, and books.
Books
Christopher Hobbs’s Medicinal Mushrooms: The Essential Guide
Winner of the 2021 American Botanical Council James A.
Duke Excellence in Botanical Literature Award, this book provides everything you need to know about mushrooms. From details on the nutritional and medicinal compounds in each mushroom variety, to instructions on growing, foraging, and sourcing mushrooms.
Fantastic Fungi Community Cookbook
This cookbook features mushroom recipes representing cultures from all over the world. A few droolworthy examples: chaga chocolate chip cookies, black trumpet and fig pizza, and lobster mushroom chowdah. The cookbook includes essays that explore a range of topics, such as mushroom cultivation and foraging.
Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking
- Mushroom Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Product, by Form, by Distribution Channel, by Application, by Region, and Segment Forecasts, 2022–2030. Grand View Research.
- Spelman K, Sutherland E, Bagrade A. Neurological Activity of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus). Journal of Restorative Medicine.
March 2017. - Where to Find Lion’s Mane Mushrooms? Forest Wildlife. October 14, 2021.
- Lai PL, Naidu M, Sabaratnam V, et al. Neurotrophic Properties of the Lion’s Mane Medicinal Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2013.
- Li IC, Chang HH, Lin CH, et al. Prevention of Early Alzheimer’s Disease by Erinacine A-Enriched Hericium erinaceus Mycelia Pilot Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience. 2020.
- Chong PS, Fun ML, Wong KH, et al. Therapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorder. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2020.
- Nagano M, Shimizu K, Kondo R, et al. Reduction of Depression and Anxiety by 4 Weeks Hericium erinaceus Intake. Biomedical Research. 2010.
- Liu JH, Li L, Shan XD, et al. Anti-Helicobacter Pylori Activity of Bioactive Components Isolated From Hericium erinaceus.
Journal of Ethnopharmacology. May 2016. - Minnesota Profile: Lion’s Mane. Minnesota Conservation Volunteer. September–October 2018.
- FDA 101: Dietary Supplements. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- Wang G, Zhang X, Maier S, et al. In Vitro and In Vivo Inhibition of Helicobacter Pylori by Ethanolic Extracts of Lion’s Mane Medicinal Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms. 2019.
- Mori K, Inatomi S, et al. Improving Effects of the Mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Phytotherapy Research. 2009.
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By Jessica Migala9 Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Plus Side Effects)
Lion’s mane mushrooms are large, white, shaggy mushrooms that resemble a lion’s mane as they grow.
They contain bioactive substances that have many beneficial effects on the body, especially the brain, heart, and gut.
Lion’s mane mushrooms, also known as hou tou gu or yamabushitake, have both culinary and medicinal uses in Asian countries like China, India, Japan, and Korea (1).
Here are nine health benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms and their extracts, along with dosages, preparation, and side effects.
1. Could protect against dementia
The brain’s ability to grow and form new connections typically declines with age, which may explain why mental functioning worsens in many older adults (2).
Studies have found that lion’s mane mushrooms contain two special compounds that can stimulate the growth of brain cells: hericenones and erinacines (3).
Additionally, animal studies have found that lion’s mane may help protect against Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative brain disease that causes progressive memory loss.
In fact, lion’s mane mushroom and its extracts have been shown to reduce symptoms of memory loss in mice, as well as prevent neuronal damage caused by amyloid-beta plaques, which accumulate in the brain during Alzheimer’s disease (4, 5, 6).
A 2020 study of people with mild Alzheimer’s disease found that supplementation with 1 gram of lion’s mane mushroom daily for 49 weeks significantly improved cognitive test scores compared with a placebo (7).
The ability of lion’s mane mushroom to promote nerve growth and protect the brain from Alzheimer’s-related damage may explain some of its beneficial effects on brain health.
However, it’s important to note that most of the research has been conducted on animals or in test tubes. Therefore, more human studies are needed.
SummaryLion’s mane mushrooms contain compounds that stimulate brain cell growth and protect them from damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease. However, more research involving humans is needed.
2. Helps relieve mild symptoms of depression and anxiety
Up to one-third of people living in developed countries experience symptoms of anxiety and depression (8, 9).
While there are many causes of anxiety and depression, chronic inflammation could be a major contributing factor.
Animal research has found that lion’s mane mushroom extract has anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in mice (10).
Other animal studies have found that lion’s mane extract can also help regenerate brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, a region of the brain that processes memories and emotional responses (11, 12).
Researchers believe that improved hippocampus functioning may explain the reductions in anxious and depressive behaviors in mice receiving these extracts.
While these animal studies are promising, there is very little research involving humans.
One small 2010 study of menopausal women found that eating cookies containing lion’s mane mushrooms daily for 1 month helped reduce self-reported feelings of irritation and anxiety (13, 14).
SummaryStudies suggest that lion’s mane mushrooms may help relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, but more research involving humans is needed to better understand the correlation.
3. May speed recovery from nervous system injuries
The nervous system consists of the brain, spinal cord, and other nerves that travel throughout the body. These components work together to send and transmit signals that control almost every bodily function.
Brain or spinal cord injuries can cause various adverse medical outcomes. They often cause paralysis or loss of mental functions and can take a long time to heal.
However, research has found that lion’s mane mushroom extract may help speed recovery from these types of injuries by stimulating the growth and repair of nerve cells (15, 16). It may also help reduce the severity of brain damage after a stroke.
However, no studies have been conducted involving humans to determine if lion’s mane would have the same therapeutic effect on nervous system injuries as animal research has suggested.
SummaryRat studies have found that lion’s mane extract can speed up recovery from nervous system injuries, but research involving humans is lacking.
4. Protects against ulcers in the digestive tract
Ulcers can form anywhere along the digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
Two major factors typically cause stomach ulcers: overgrowth of the bacteria H. pylori and damage to the mucous layer of the stomach that’s often due to long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (17).
Lion’s mane extract may protect against the development of stomach ulcers by inhibiting the growth of H. pylori and protecting the stomach lining from damage (18).
Several older studies have found that lion’s mane extract can prevent the growth of H. pylori in a test tube, but no studies have tested whether the extract has the same effects inside the stomach (19, 20).
Another 2013 animal study found that lion’s mane extract was more effective at preventing alcohol-induced stomach ulcers than traditional acid-lowering drugs — and without any negative side effects (21).
Lion’s mane extract can also reduce inflammation and prevent tissue damage in other intestinal areas. In fact, they may help treat inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease (22, 23, 24).
A 2016 study of people with ulcerative colitis found that taking a mushroom supplement containing 14% lion’s mane extract significantly reduced symptoms and improved quality of life after 3 weeks (25).
However, when the same study was repeated in patients with Crohn’s disease, the benefits were roughly the same as with placebo (26).
It’s important to note that the herbal supplement used in these studies included several types of mushrooms, so it’s difficult to conclude about the effects of lion’s mane specifically.
Overall, research suggests that lion’s mane extract may help inhibit the development of ulcers, but more research involving humans is needed.
SummaryLion’s mane extract has been shown to protect against stomach and intestinal ulcers in rodents, but research involving humans has been conflicting.
5. Reduces risk of heart disease
Major risk factors for heart disease include the following:
- obesity
- high triglycerides
- large amounts of oxidized cholesterol
- an increased tendency to get blood clots
Research shows that lion’s mane extract can influence some of these factors and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Studies of rats and mice have found that lion’s mane mushroom extract improves fat metabolism and lowers triglyceride levels (27).
One 2010 study of rats fed a high fat diet and given daily doses of lion’s mane extract showed 27% lower triglyceride levels and 42% less weight gain after 28 days (28).
Since obesity and high triglycerides are both considered risk factors for heart disease, this is one way that lion’s mane mushrooms contribute to heart health.
Test-tube studies have also found that lion’s mane extract can help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream (29).
Oxidized cholesterol molecules tend to attach to artery walls, causing them to harden and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Reducing oxidation is beneficial for heart health.
What’s more, lion’s mane mushrooms contain a compound called hericenone B, which can decrease the rate of blood clotting and lower the risk of heart attack or stroke (30).
Lion’s mane mushrooms appear to benefit the heart and blood vessels in multiple ways, but studies involving humans are needed to support this.
SummaryAnimal and test-tube studies suggest that lion’s mane extract can reduce the risk of heart disease in several ways, but human studies are needed to confirm these findings.
6. Helps manage diabetes symptoms
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when the body’s ability to manage blood sugar levels is impaired. As a result, levels are consistently elevated.
Chronically high blood sugar levels eventually cause complications like kidney disease, nerve damage in the hands and feet, and vision loss.
Lion’s mane mushroom may be beneficial for diabetes management by improving blood sugar management and reducing some of these side effects.
Several animal studies have shown that lion’s mane can cause significantly lower blood sugar levels in both normal and diabetic mice, even at daily dosages as low as 2.7 milligrams (mg) per pound (6 mg per kg) of body weight (31, 32).
One way that lion’s mane lowers blood sugars is by blocking the activity of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which breaks down carbs in the small intestine (33).
When this enzyme is blocked, the body is unable to digest and absorb carbs as effectively, which results in lower blood sugar levels.
In addition to lowering blood sugars, lion’s mane extract may reduce diabetic nerve pain in the hands and feet.
In mice with diabetic nerve damage, 6 weeks of daily lion’s mushroom extract significantly reduced pain, lowered blood sugar levels, and even increased antioxidant levels (34).
Lion’s mane mushroom shows potential as a therapeutic diabetes supplement, but more research is needed to determine exactly how it might be used in humans.
SummaryLion’s mane mushroom can help lower blood sugar and reduce diabetic nerve pain in mice, but more studies are needed to determine whether it might be a good therapeutic option in humans.
7. May help fight cancer
Cancer occurs when your DNA becomes damaged, causing your cells to divide and replicate out of control.
Some research suggests that lion’s mane mushroom has cancer-fighting abilities thanks to several of its unique compounds (35, 36).
In fact, when lion’s mane extract is mixed with human cancer cells in a test tube, they cause the cancer cells to die faster. This has been demonstrated with several types of cancer cells, including liver, colon, stomach, and blood cancer cells (37, 38, 39, 40). However, at least one older study has failed to replicate these results (41).
In addition to killing cancer cells, lion’s mane extract has also been shown to slow the spread of cancer.
One 2013 study of mice with colon cancer found that taking lion’s mane extract reduced the spread of cancer to the lungs by 69% (42).
Another 2014 study found that lion’s mane extract was more effective than traditional cancer medications at slowing tumor growth in mice, in addition to having fewer side effects (43).
However, the anticancer effects of lion’s mane mushroom have never been tested in humans, so more research is needed.
SummaryAnimal and test-tube studies show that lion’s mane extract can kill cancer cells and slow the spread of tumors, but studies involving humans are still needed.
8. Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are believed to be the root causes of many modern illnesses, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders (47).
Research shows that lion’s mane mushrooms contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that may help reduce the impact of these illnesses (48).
In fact, a 2012 study examining the antioxidant abilities of 14 different mushroom species found that lion’s mane had the fourth highest antioxidant activity and recommended it be considered a good dietary source of antioxidants (49).
Several animal studies have found that lion’s mane extract reduced markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in rodents and may be especially useful in managing inflammatory bowel disease, liver damage, and stroke (22, 50, 51).
Lion’s mane mushrooms may also help reduce some of the health risks associated with obesity, as they have been shown to decrease the amount of inflammation fat tissue releases (52).
More studies are needed to determine the potential health benefits in humans, but the results from lab and animal studies are promising.
SummaryLion’s mane mushroom contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce the impact of chronic illness.
9. Boosts the immune system
A strong immune system protects the body from bacteria, viruses, and other disease-causing pathogens.
On the other hand, a weak immune system puts the body at a higher risk of developing infectious diseases.
Animal research shows that lion’s mane mushroom can boost immunity by increasing the activity of the intestinal immune system, which protects the body from pathogens that enter the gut through the mouth or nose (53).
These effects may partly be due to beneficial changes in gut bacteria that stimulate the immune system (54).
A 2012 study even found that supplementing with lion’s mane extract daily nearly quadrupled the lifespan of mice injected with a lethal dose of salmonella bacteria (55).
The immune-boosting effects of lion’s mane mushrooms are very promising, but this area of research is still developing.
SummaryLion’s mane mushrooms have been shown to have immune-boosting effects in rodents, but much more research is needed.
There’s no standard dosage for lion’s mane mushrooms. The safest, most beneficial amount depends on factors like your age and overall health. You may want to talk with a doctor about the right dosage for you.
For improving cognition, some researchers recommend 3 to 5 grams per day. (56)
In a 2020 study, people ages 50 and older with mild Alzheimer’s disease symptoms showed significantly improved cognitive function after taking three 350-mg lion’s mane capsules daily for 49 weeks. (7)
Taking three 400-mg capsules daily for 8 weeks helped relieve depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders for 77 people who were overweight or had obesity, according to a 2019 study. (57)
SummaryThe most effective dosage of lion’s mane mushrooms depends on factors like your age and overall health.
Lion’s mane mushrooms can be enjoyed raw, cooked, dried, or steeped as tea.
Many people describe their flavor as “seafood-like,” often comparing it to crab or lobster (58).
The mushrooms can be cooked and served in dishes like risotto, pasta, or soup.
Lion’s mane mushroom powder can be mixed into hot water, tea, coffee, a smoothie, or other beverages.
It can also be added to soup, stew, or gravy.
SummaryLion’s mane mushrooms can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried.
Fresh lion’s mane mushrooms have the greatest health benefits, according to some researchers. However, the cultivation methods may affect the mushrooms’ medicinal properties. (59)
Lion’s mane mushrooms are available over the counter in some of the following forms:
- tablets
- capsules
- powder
- tinctures
However, researchers advise that there are currently no guidelines to ensure these products are safe and effective.
SummaryAlthough fresh lion’s mane mushrooms may provide the most health benefits, they can also be taken as a supplement in forms like tablets or capsules.
Safety and side effects
No studies involving humans have examined the side effects of lion’s mane mushroom or its extract, but they appear to be very safe.
No adverse effects have been seen in rats, even at doses as high as 2.3 grams per pound (5 grams per kg) of body weight per day for 1 month or lower dosages for 3 months (60, 61, 62).
However, anyone who is allergic or sensitive to mushrooms should avoid lion’s mane since it’s a mushroom species.
There have been documented cases of people experiencing difficulty breathing or skin rashes after exposure to lion’s mane mushrooms, likely related to allergies (63, 64).
SummaryAnimal studies suggest that lion’s mane mushroom and its extracts are very safe, even at high doses. However, allergic reactions in humans have been reported, so anyone with a known mushroom allergy should avoid it.
The bottom line
Lion’s mane mushroom and its extract have been shown to have various health benefits.
Research has found that lion’s mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help repair nerve damage.
It’s also been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting abilities and to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers, and diabetes in animals.
While the current research is promising, more studies involving humans are needed to develop practical health applications for lion’s mane mushrooms.
health benefits and side effects
What are lion's mane mushrooms?
Lion's mane mushrooms, also known as "hou tou gu" or "yamabushitake", are large white hairy mushrooms that resemble a lion's mane as they grow.
They are used in both culinary and medicinal applications in Asian countries such as China, India, Japan and Korea.
Lion's mane mushrooms can be eaten raw, boiled, dried or brewed as a tea. Their extracts are often used in over-the-counter health supplements.
Many describe their taste as "seafood", often comparing it to crab or lobster.
Lion's mane mushrooms contain biologically active substances that have a beneficial effect on the body, especially on the brain, heart and intestines.
Here are 9 health benefits of lion's mane mushrooms and their extracts.
1. Lion's mane mushrooms may protect against dementia.
The brain's ability to grow and form new connections typically declines with age, which may explain why mental functioning declines in many older adults.
Studies have shown that lion's mane mushrooms contain two specific compounds that can stimulate the growth of brain cells: hericenones and erinacins.
In addition, animal studies have shown that lion's mane may help protect against Alzheimer's disease, a degenerative brain disease that causes progressive memory loss.
Lion's mane mushroom and its extracts have been shown to reduce symptoms of memory loss in mice and also prevent neuronal damage caused by beta-amyloid plaques that build up in the brain during Alzheimer's disease.
Although no studies have analyzed whether lion's mane is beneficial for Alzheimer's disease in humans, it appears to improve mental functioning.
A study in older adults with mild cognitive impairment found that eating 3 grams of minced lion's mane mushroom daily for four months significantly improved mental functioning, but these benefits disappeared when supplementation was discontinued.
Lion's mane mushroom's ability to promote nerve growth and protect the brain from damage associated with Alzheimer's may explain some of its beneficial effects on brain health.
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However, it is important to note that most of the research has been done on animals or in test tubes. Therefore, more human studies are needed.
Summary: Lion's mane mushrooms contain compounds that stimulate the growth of brain cells and protect them from damage caused by Alzheimer's disease. However, more human studies are needed.
2. Lion's mane mushroom helps relieve mild symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Up to a third of people living in developed countries experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.
While there are many causes of anxiety and depression, chronic inflammation can be one of the main factors.
A new animal study shows that lion's mane mushroom extract has an anti-inflammatory effect that can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in mice.
Other animal studies have shown that lion's mane extract may also help regenerate brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for processing memories and emotional responses.
Researchers believe that improved hippocampal function may explain the reduction in anxiety and depressive behavior in mice treated with these extracts.
While these animal studies are promising, there are very few human studies.
One small study in menopausal women found that eating lion's mane mushroom biscuits daily for one month helped reduce self-reported feelings of irritability and anxiety.
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Summary: Research shows that lion's mane mushrooms can help relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, but more human research is needed to better understand the relationship.
3. Lion's mane mushrooms can speed up recovery after injuries to the nervous system.
The nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord and other nerves that run throughout the body. These components work together to send and transmit signals that control almost every bodily function.
Injuries to the brain or spinal cord can be very severe. They often cause paralysis or loss of mental function and can take a long time to heal.
However, studies have shown that Lion's Mane Mushroom Extract can help speed recovery from these injuries by stimulating nerve cell growth and repair.
Lion's mane mushroom extract has been shown to reduce recovery time by 23-41% when administered to rats with nerve injury.
Lion's mane extract may also help reduce the severity of brain damage after a stroke.
In one study, high doses of lion's mane mushroom extract in rats immediately after a stroke helped reduce inflammation and reduce the size of a brain injury caused by a stroke by 44%.
Although these results are promising, no human studies have been conducted to determine if lion's mane has the same therapeutic effect on nervous system injuries.
Summary: Studies in rats have shown that lion's mane extract can speed up recovery from nerve injury, but human studies are lacking.
4. Mushrooms "Lion's mane" protect against ulcers of the digestive tract.
Ulcers can form anywhere in the digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
Gastric ulcers are often caused by two main factors: an overgrowth of a bacteria called H. pylori and damage to the stomach lining, often due to long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
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Lion's mane extract may protect against stomach ulcers by inhibiting the growth of H. pylori and protecting the stomach lining from damage.
Several studies have shown that lion's mane extract can prevent the growth of H. pylori in vitro, but no studies have tested whether they have the same effects in the stomach.
In addition, an animal study showed that lion's mane extract was more effective in preventing alcohol-induced stomach ulcers than conventional acid-lowering drugs, and without any negative side effects.
Lion's mane extract may also reduce inflammation and prevent tissue damage in other areas of the intestine. They can help treat inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
One study in people with ulcerative colitis found that taking a mushroom supplement containing 14% lion's mane extract significantly reduced symptoms and improved quality of life after three weeks.
However, when the same study was repeated in patients with Crohn's disease, the benefit was no better than placebo.
It is important to note that the herbal supplement used in these studies included several types of mushrooms, so it is difficult to draw any conclusions about the effects of lion's mane specifically.
Overall, research suggests that lion's mane extract may help suppress the development of ulcers, but more human studies are needed.
Summary: Lion's mane extract has been shown to protect against stomach and intestinal ulcers in rodents, but human studies are inconsistent.
5. Lion's mane mushrooms reduce the risk of heart disease.
Major risk factors for heart disease include obesity, high triglyceride levels, high levels of oxidized cholesterol, and an increased tendency to form blood clots.
Studies show that lion's mane extract may affect some of these factors and reduce the risk of heart disease.
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Studies in rats and mice showed that lion's mane mushroom extract improves fat metabolism and lowers triglycerides.
One study in rats fed a high fat diet and given daily doses of lion's mane extract showed a 27% reduction in triglycerides and a 42% reduction in weight after 28 days.
Since obesity and high triglycerides are considered risk factors for heart disease, this is one of the ways that lion's mane mushrooms promote heart health.
Test-tube studies have also shown that lion's mane extract may help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream.
Oxidized cholesterol molecules tend to attach to artery walls, causing them to harden and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Therefore, reducing oxidation is good for heart health.
What's more, lion's mane mushrooms contain a compound called hericenon B, which can slow blood clotting and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Lion's mane mushrooms appear to be beneficial for the heart and blood vessels in many ways, but human studies are needed to confirm this.
Summary: Animal and test-tube studies indicate that lion's mane extract may reduce the risk of heart disease in several ways, but human studies are needed to confirm these results.
6. Lion's Mane Mushrooms help with diabetes symptoms.
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when the body loses the ability to control blood sugar levels. As a result, the levels are constantly rising.
Chronically high blood sugar eventually causes complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage in the arms and legs, and vision loss.
Lion's mane mushroom may be useful for diabetes by improving blood sugar control and reducing some of these side effects.
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Several animal studies have shown that Lion's Mane can cause significant reductions in blood sugar levels in both normal and diabetic mice, even at daily doses of just 2.
7 mg per pound (6 mg per kg) of body weight.
One way lion's mane lowers blood sugar levels is by blocking the activity of the alpha-glucosidase enzyme, which breaks down carbohydrates in the small intestine.
When this enzyme is blocked, the body cannot digest and absorb carbohydrates as efficiently, resulting in low blood sugar levels.
In addition to lowering blood sugar levels, lion's mane extract may reduce diabetic nerve pain in the hands and feet.
In mice with diabetic nerve damage, six weeks of daily lion fungus extract significantly reduced pain, lowered blood sugar, and even increased antioxidant levels.
Lion's mane mushroom shows potential as a therapeutic supplement for diabetes, but more research is needed to determine exactly how it can be used in humans.
Summary: lion's mane mushroom may help lower blood sugar and reduce nerve pain in diabetic mice, but more research is needed to determine if it might be a good therapeutic option in humans.
7. Lion's mane mushrooms may help fight cancer.
Cancer occurs when DNA becomes damaged and causes uncontrolled cell division and replication.
Several studies show that lion's mane mushroom fights cancer thanks to several unique compounds.
When lion's mane extract is mixed with human cancer cells in vitro, it causes the cancer cells to die faster. This has been demonstrated in several types of cancer cells, including cancer cells in the liver, colon, stomach, and blood.
However, at least one study failed to replicate these results, so more research is needed.
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Lion's mane extract not only kills cancer cells, but also slows down the spread of cancer.
One study in mice with colon cancer found that taking lion's mane extract reduced the spread of cancer to the lungs by 69%.
Another study showed that lion's mane extract was more effective than traditional cancer drugs in slowing down tumor growth in mice and also had fewer side effects.
However, the anti-cancer effects of lion's mane mushroom have never been tested in humans, so more research is needed.
Summary: Animal and test tube studies show that lion's mane extract can kill cancer cells and slow the spread of tumors, but human studies are still needed.
8. Lion's mane mushrooms reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are thought to underlie many of today's diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders.
Research shows that lion's mane mushrooms contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that may help reduce the effects of these diseases.
One study examining the antioxidant capacity of 14 different mushroom species found lion's mane to have the fourth highest antioxidant activity and recommended it as a good dietary source of antioxidants.
Several animal studies have shown that lion's mane extract reduces markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in rodents and may be particularly beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, liver damage and stroke.
Lion's mane mushrooms may also help reduce some of the health risks associated with obesity, as they have been shown to reduce inflammation produced by adipose tissue.
More research is needed to determine potential health benefits in humans, but laboratory and animal studies are promising.
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Summary: Lion's Mane Mushroom contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce the effects of chronic disease.
9. Lion's mane mushroom strengthens the immune system.
A strong immune system protects the body from bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing pathogens.
On the other hand, a weak immune system puts the body at a higher risk of developing infectious diseases.
Animal studies show that lion's mane mushroom can boost immunity by boosting the activity of the intestinal immune system, which protects the body from pathogens that enter the intestines through the mouth or nose.
These effects may in part be due to beneficial changes in gut bacteria that stimulate the immune system.
One study even showed that daily intake of lion's mane extract nearly quadrupled the lifespan of mice injected with lethal doses of salmonella bacteria.
The immunostimulating effect of lion's mane mushrooms is very promising, but this area of research is still developing.
Summary: Lion's mane mushrooms have been shown to have immunostimulatory effects in rodents, but more research is needed.
Lion's mane mushroom safety and side effects
No human studies have examined the side effects of lion's mane mushroom or its extract, but they appear to be very safe.
No side effects were observed in rats even at doses up to 2.3 grams per pound (5 grams per kg) of body weight per day for one month or lower doses for three months.
However, anyone who is allergic or sensitive to mushrooms should avoid lion's mane as it is a type of mushroom.
There have been reports of people experiencing difficulty breathing or skin rashes after exposure to lion's mane mushrooms, likely related to allergies.
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Summary: Animal studies show that lion's mane mushroom and its extracts are very safe, even at high doses. However, allergic reactions have been reported in humans, so anyone with a known allergy to mushrooms should avoid it.
Summary
Lion's mane mushroom and its extract have been shown to offer a range of health benefits.
Studies have shown that lion's mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help repair nerve damage.
It also has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting abilities and has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes in animals.
While current research is promising, more human studies are needed to develop practical health applications for lion's mane mushroom.
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9 Health Benefits of Lion's Mane Mushroom (plus side effects) - Drink-Drink
Lion's Mane Mushrooms, also known as hou tou gu or Yamabushitake large, hairy, white mushrooms growth resembling a lion's mane.
They are used in both culinary and medicinal applications in Asian countries such as China, India, Japan and Korea.1).
Lion's mane mushrooms can be eaten raw, boiled, dried or made into a tea. Their extracts are often used in over-the-counter dietary supplements.
Many describe their taste as "seafood", often comparing it to crab or lobster (2).
Lion's mane contains biologically active substances that have a beneficial effect on the body, especially on the brain, heart and intestines.
Here are 9 health benefits of lion's mane mushrooms and their extracts.
1. May protect against dementia
The brain's ability to grow and form new connections typically declines with age, which may explain the decline in mental performance in many older people.
3).
Research has shown that lion's mane mushrooms contain two specific compounds that can stimulate the growth of brain cells: hercenones and erinacins (4).
In addition, animal studies have shown that lion's mane may help protect against Alzheimer's disease, a degenerative brain disease that causes progressive memory loss.
In fact, lion's mane mushroom and its extracts reduce symptoms of memory loss in mice and also prevent neuronal damage caused by beta-amyloid plaques that accumulate in the brain during Alzheimer's disease.5, 6, 7, 8).
Although no studies have analyzed whether lion's mane mushroom is beneficial for Alzheimer's disease in humans, it appears to improve mental performance.
A study in older adults with mild cognitive impairment found that eating 3 grams of powdered lion's mane mushroom daily for four months significantly improved mental performance, but these benefits disappeared when the supplement was discontinued (9).
Lion's mane mushroom's ability to promote nerve growth and protect the brain from Alzheimer's disease-related damage may explain some of its beneficial effects on brain health.
However, it is important to note that most of the studies have been done in animals or in test tubes. Therefore, more research in humans is needed.
Conclusion
Lion's mane contains compounds that stimulate the growth of brain cells and protect them from damage caused by Alzheimer's disease. However, more human studies are needed.
2. Helps relieve mild symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Up to one third of people living in developed countries experience symptoms of anxiety and depression.10).
While there are many causes of anxiety and depression, chronic inflammation can be a major factor.
A new animal study found that lion's mane mushroom extract has anti-inflammatory effects that may reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in mice.11, 12).
Other animal studies have shown that lion's mane extract may also help with brain cell regeneration and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for processing memories and emotional responses.
13,14).
Researchers believe that improved hippocampal function may explain the reduction in anxiety and depressive behavior in mice treated with these extracts.
While these animal studies are promising, there are very few human studies.
One small study in menopausal women found that eating biscuits containing lion's mane mushrooms daily for one month helped reduce self-reported feelings of irritation and anxiety.15).
Conclusion
Research suggests that lion's mane mushrooms may help relieve mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, but more human studies are needed to better understand the relationship.
3. May speed up recovery from nerve injury.
The nervous system consists of the brain, spinal cord, and other nerves that run throughout the body. These components work together to send and transmit signals that control nearly every bodily function.
Injuries to the brain or spinal cord can be devastating.
They often cause paralysis or loss of mental function and can take a long time to heal.
However, studies have shown that lion's mane extract may help speed recovery from such injuries by stimulating nerve cell growth and repair.16, 17, 18).
In fact, lion's mane mushroom extract has been shown to reduce recovery time by 23-41% when administered to rats with neurological damage.19).
Lion's mane extract may also help reduce the severity of brain damage after a stroke.
In one study, high doses of lion's mane mushroom extract given to rats immediately after a stroke helped reduce inflammation and reduce the size of stroke-related brain damage by 44% (20).
Although these results are promising, there have been no studies in humans to determine if lion's mane would have the same therapeutic effect on nerve injuries.
Conclusion
Studies in rats have shown that lion's mane extract can speed up recovery time from nerve injury, but human studies are lacking.
4. Protects against ulcers in the digestive tract
Ulcers can form anywhere in the digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
Gastric ulcers are often caused by two main factors: an overgrowth of bacteria called H. pylori, and damage to the gastric mucosa, which is often associated with long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (21).
Lion's mane extract may protect against the development of gastric ulcers by inhibiting the growth of H. pylori, and protecting the gastric mucosa from damage (2, 22).
Several studies have shown that lion's mane extract can prevent the growth of H. pylori, in vitro, but no study has tested whether they have the same effect in the stomach (23, 24).
In addition, an animal study showed that lion's mane extract was more effective in preventing alcohol-induced stomach ulcers than traditional acid-reducing drugs and did not have any negative side effects.
25).
Lion's mane extract may also reduce inflammation and prevent tissue damage in other areas of the intestine. In fact, they may help treat inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease (26, 27, 28).
One study in people with ulcerative colitis found that taking a mushroom supplement containing 14% lion's mane extract significantly reduced symptoms and improved quality of life after three weeks.29).
However, when the same study was repeated in patients with Crohn's disease, the benefit was no better than placebo.30).
It is important to note that the herbal supplement used in these studies included several types of mushrooms, so it is difficult to draw any conclusions about the effect of lion's mane specifically.
Overall, research suggests that lion's mane extract may help prevent ulcers, but more human studies are needed.
Conclusion
Lion's mane extract has been shown to protect against gastric and intestinal ulcers in rodents, but human studies are inconsistent.
5. Reduces the risk of heart disease
Major risk factors for heart disease include obesity, high triglycerides, high oxidized cholesterol, and an increased tendency to form blood clots.
Studies show that lion's mane extract may affect some of these factors and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Studies in rats and mice have shown that lion's mane extract improves fat metabolism and lowers triglycerides.31).
In one study in rats fed a high-fat diet and given daily doses of lion's mane extract, a 27% reduction in triglycerides and a 42% reduction in weight gain after 28 days were observed.32).
Since obesity and high triglycerides are considered risk factors for heart disease, this is one of the ways that lion's mane mushrooms promote heart health.
Test-tube studies have also shown that lion's mane extract may help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream.33).
Oxidized cholesterol molecules tend to attach to the walls of arteries, causing them to harden and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Therefore, reducing oxidation is good for heart health.
What's more, lion's mane mushrooms contain a compound called hericenon B, which can slow blood clotting and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.34).
Lion's mane appears to benefit the heart and blood vessels in many ways, but human studies are needed to confirm this.
Conclusion
Animal and test tube studies indicate that lion's mane extract may reduce the risk of heart disease in several ways, but human studies are needed to confirm these results.
6. Helps manage the symptoms of diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that occurs when the body loses its ability to control blood sugar levels. As a result, levels are constantly elevated.
Chronically high blood sugar eventually causes complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage in the arms and legs, and vision loss.
Lion's mane may be useful for diabetes by improving blood sugar control and reducing some of these side effects.
Several animal studies have shown that lion's mane can cause significant reductions in blood sugar levels in both normal and diabetic mice, even at a daily dosage of only 2.7 mg per pound (6 mg per kg) of body weight.35 , 36).
One way lion's mane lowers blood sugar levels is by blocking the activity of the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which breaks down carbohydrates in the small intestine.37).
When this enzyme is blocked, the body cannot digest and absorb carbohydrates as efficiently, resulting in low blood sugar levels.
In addition to lowering blood sugar levels, lion's mane extract may reduce diabetic nerve pain in the hands and feet.
In mice with diabetic nerve damage, six weeks of daily lion fungus extract significantly reduced pain, lowered blood sugar, and even increased antioxidant levels.38).
Lion's mane mushroom shows potential as a therapeutic supplement for diabetes, but more research is needed to determine exactly how it can be used in humans.
Conclusion
Lion's mane may help lower blood sugar and reduce diabetic nerve pain in mice, but more research is needed to determine if it might be a good therapeutic option in humans.
7. May help fight cancer
Cancer occurs when DNA becomes damaged and causes cells to divide and multiply out of control.
Some research suggests that lion's mane mushroom has cancer-fighting abilities thanks to several unique compounds (39, 40).
In fact, when lion's mane extract is mixed with human cancer cells in vitro, it causes the cancer cells to die faster. This has been demonstrated in several types of cancer cells, including cancer cells of the liver, colon, stomach, and blood.41, 42, 43).
However, at least one study failed to replicate these results, so more research is needed.44).
In addition to killing cancer cells, lion's mane extract also slows down the spread of cancer.
One study in mice with colon cancer found that taking lion's mane extract reduced the spread of cancer to the lungs by 69% (45).
Another study showed that lion's mane extract was more effective than conventional cancer drugs in slowing tumor growth in mice, in addition to having fewer side effects.42).
However, the anti-cancer effects of lion's mane mushroom have never been tested in humans, so more research is needed.
Conclusion
Animal and test tube studies show that lion's mane extract can kill cancer cells and slow the spread of tumors, but human studies are still needed.
8. Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are believed to underlie many modern diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.46).
Research shows that lion's mane mushrooms contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that may help reduce the impact of these diseases (47).
In fact, one study examining the antioxidant capacity of 14 different mushroom species found lion's mane to be the fourth highest antioxidant activity and recommended it as a good dietary source of antioxidants. 48).
Several animal studies have shown that lion's mane extract reduces markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in rodents and may be particularly beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, liver damage, and stroke.20, 26, 49, 50).
Lion's mane may also help reduce some of the health risks associated with obesity, as they have been shown to reduce inflammation caused by adipose tissue.51).
More research is needed to determine potential human health benefits, but laboratory and animal studies are promising.
Conclusion
Lion's mane contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce the effects of chronic disease.
9. Boosts the immune system
A strong immune system protects the body from bacteria, viruses and other disease-causing pathogens.
On the other hand, a weak immune system puts the body at a higher risk of developing infectious diseases.
Animal studies show that lion's mane mushroom can boost immunity by boosting the activity of the gut immune system, which protects the body from pathogens entering the gut through the mouth or nose.52).
These effects may be due in part to beneficial changes in gut bacteria that stimulate the immune system.53).
One study even showed that daily intake of lion's mane extract nearly quadrupled the lifespan of mice injected with lethal doses of salmonella bacteria (54).
The immunostimulatory effects of lion's mane mushrooms are very promising, but this area of research is still developing.
Conclusion
Lion's mane mushrooms have been shown to have immunostimulatory effects in rodents, but more research is needed.
Safety and side effects
No human studies have examined the side effects of lion's mane mushroom or its extract, but they appear to be very safe.
No side effects have been observed in rats even at doses as high as 2. 3 grams per pound (5 grams per kg) of body weight per day for one month or lower doses for three months.55, 56, 57).
However, anyone with allergies or sensitivities to mushrooms should avoid lion's mane as it is a type of mushroom.
Cases have been documented of people experiencing difficulty breathing or skin rashes after exposure to lion's mane mushrooms, which is likely related to allergies.58,59).
Conclusion
Animal studies show that lion's mane mushroom and its extracts are very safe even at high doses. However, allergic reactions have been reported in humans, so anyone with a known allergy to mushrooms should avoid it.
Conclusions
Lion's mane mushroom and its extract have been shown to have many health benefits.
Studies have shown that Lion's Mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help repair nerve damage.
It also has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting properties and has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes in animals.
