The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of lion’s mane make it the ideal mushroom for people with frequent migraines and other types of headaches. Here are the benefits of taking lion’s mane mushrooms for migraines:

Article Jumplinks:

What are the benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms?

What are the negative effects of lion’s mane?

Can lion’s mane alleviate migraines?

Does lion’s mane help brain fog?

How to take lion’s mane mushrooms for migraines?

What is the best dosage of lion’s mane for migraines?

How much lion’s mane is in Forij granola?

What Is Lion’s Mane?

The lion’s mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is an adaptogenic mushroom native to North America, northern Asia, and northern Europe. This mushroom has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is considered one of the healthiest mushrooms you can eat.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Benefits

Research on the lion’s mane mushroom benefits indicates this fungus has the potential to promote nerve cell growth through the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) proteins and repair nerve cells. It appears to reduce inflammation, improve heart health, lower blood sugar levels, improve focus and memory, and reduce anxiety and depression. 

Some of the potential health benefits of lion’s mane include:

• reduces mild symptoms of depression and anxiety
• provides antioxidant activities
• improves cognitive functions by stimulating nerve growth factor proteins
• has a protective effect against nerve cells and improves brain health
• lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease and blood clots
• promotes the growth of nerve cells and nerve regeneration, which is beneficial for nervous system injuries
• reduces the risk of sleep disorders
• aids in weight management and weight loss
• prevents memory loss and protects against mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease
• lowers blood sugars, which is quite beneficial to those with diabetes
• encourages apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells, and has the potential to fight cancer
• improves digestive health and protects against irritable bowel disease and stomach ulcers
• reduces inflammation in the body
• boosts immunity and improves the immune system
• has neuroprotective properties and reduces nerve damage in neurodegenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease

Lion’s Mane Side Effects

Although no human studies have examined the side effects of lion's mane yet, centuries of use and anecdotal evidence suggest that this mushroom is completely safe to consume.

However, you may experience an adverse effect in the form of digestive issues if you consume too much lion’s mane at once. Therefore, it's best to start slow and talk to a healthcare professional if you notice any digestive discomfort.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom for Migraines

Several studies suggest that lion’s mane can alleviate pain, with the protective effects of lion’s mane against nerve pain being particularly impressive.

And, while there is not a lot of research on the effects of lion’s mane on migraines, a recent study seems to confirm these pain-relieving properties may also apply to this type of cluster headache. Here’s how lion’s mane can be beneficial for people with frequent migraines.

Lion’s Mane Studies on Migraines

Lion’s mane is one of the best natural supplements for migraines thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and the benefits it can have on blood vessels.

A 2020 study compared the effects of migraine medications with natural anti-migraine alternatives, including lion’s mane. Results show that this mushroom can be just as effective as migraine medication, with fewer side effects.

Lion’s Mane and Brain Fog

Brain fog typically accompanies migraines. Both anecdotal and research-based evidence seems to suggest that lion’s mane can reduce brain fog and improve mental clarity. Lion’s mane supplements have been reported to be effective in treating brain fog caused by depression, Lyme's disease, and migraines after only a few weeks of regular use.

A 2018 animal study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food looked at the effects of the Hericium erinaceus dietary supplementation on symptoms of brain fog. Results suggest that the medicinal mushroom improved these symptoms by promoting brain cell growth and regeneration in the brain of an adult mouse. 

Do Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Cause Headaches?

Lion’s mane mushrooms are unlikely to cause a headache. However, some users have reported experiencing symptoms of a mild headache the first few times they used high doses of this mushroom. Once they lowered the dosage, the headache disappeared. 

What Cures Migraines Fast?

If you already have a migraine coming on, buckle up—and take fast action to reduce the intensity and duration of the event. 

Different migraine sufferers respond differently to migraine medications; here are some of the most common medication types.

• Triptans—work for some migraineurs
• Over the counter painkillers such as Advil, Tylenol
• Opioids—these have high abuse potential and should be used as a last resource
• CGRP (peptide) inhibitors—these are targeted pain blockers
• Antiemetics—to help with the nausea and vomiting a migraine can bring on

While medication is often the fastest route to migraine relief, there are some ways to alleviate headaches without a drug. 

For example, drinking caffeine as soon as you notice symptoms of a migraine may reduce its severity. Additionally, applying hot or cold compresses on your head and neck and turning off the lights can aid in curing your migraine.

And, for some people, lion’s mane may help. Are you one of the set for whom lion’s mane can reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of migraines? You’ll have to try this mushroom to find out.

What Mushroom Is Good for Migraines?

In addition to lion’s mane, the best mushrooms for migraines are reishi mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, and cordyceps mushrooms. Combining these mushrooms with lion’s mane can aid in migraine relief and reduce the frequency of migraines.

What Herb Gets Rid of Migraines?

While no herb can get rid of a migraine entirely, some herbs can help alleviate symptoms of this condition. For example, lavender, peppermint, feverfew, and butterbur can be incredibly beneficial in reducing the severity of migraines and other types of cluster headaches.

Interested in Taking Lion’s Mane Mushrooms for Migraines?

If you are interested in taking lion’s mane mushrooms for migraines, you’re in the right place. Our medicinal mushroom granola is chock-full of a high-quality lion’s mane extract and other organic, gluten-free, and vegan ingredients.

It comes in three flavors, each equally delicious, so you can get your daily dose of lion’s mane even if you hate the taste of mushrooms. What a way to start the day.

Lion’s Mane Dose for Migraines

If you are prone to migraines, we suggest starting with a low dose of lion’s mane and working your way up. Start with around 250 mg per day, and gradually increase the dosage to around 2000 mg, or until you start to notice the beneficial effects of this fungus.

How Much Lion’s Mane Is in Forij Granola?

Forij granola uses high-quality lion's mane mushroom extracts made from whole medicinal mushrooms. Our dual extraction method extracts both water-soluble beta-glucans as well as alcohol-soluble triterpenes. Our decoction process breaks down indigestible chitin cell walls of the mushroom to get much more of these compounds out than ordinary processes do.

One serving of our granola provides 250 mg of hyperconcentrated lion's mane mushroom extract, which is eight times more concentrated than regular lion’s mane supplements. Therefore, you get as much potency as you would if you were taking a 2000 mg lion’s mane mushroom powder, all in one bowl of granola.

FAQ on Lion’s Mane Mushrooms for Migraines

What does lion’s mane do to the brain?

Lion’s mane is one of the best mushrooms for brain health. According to research, lion’s mane mushroom extracts can aid in neuron health maintenance, prevent numerous neurodegenerative disorders, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and even reduce symptoms of attention disorders. These protective effects of lion’s mane for the brain make Hericium erinaceus the perfect mushroom for kids and adults alike.

Who should not take lion’s mane?

While this mushroom is safe for most people, there are some contraindications to consider when taking lion’s mane.

Risk factors associated with taking this mushroom are allergic reactions and a medical condition that requires you to take medication that may interact with lion’s mane (such as anticoagulants and diabetes medication).

If you notice any symptoms of a mushroom allergy, such as skin rashes and difficulty breathing, stop taking lion’s mane immediately and contact a medical professional.

Can I take lion’s mane everyday?

Yes, you can take lion’s mane every day. Taking lion’s mane mushrooms daily is not only completely safe but highly beneficial. Long-term benefits of lion’s mane—such as their ability to prevent breast cancer and reduce the progression of Alzheimer’s disease—become more pronounced the longer you use this mushroom.

Does lion’s mane affect hormones?

Lion’s mane mushrooms have the potential to affect the production of hormones by promoting the growth of nerve cells, particularly in the hypothalamus in the central nervous system. A known nootropic, Hericium erinaceus seems to stimulate neurogenesis.

Lion’s mane mushrooms contain active chemical compounds called hericenones and erinacines, in their fruiting bodies. These compounds promote the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factors. BDNF, in turn, regulates the production of hypothalamic hormones (growth hormone, vasopressin, adrenocorticotropic hormones, and more).

By stimulating BDNF through the activity of hericenone and erinacine compounds, these medicinal mushrooms may regulate the production of certain hormones. This warrants further research on the effects of Hericium erinaceus on hormones, especially in humans.

How do lion’s mane mushrooms make you feel?

Lion’s mane is known for alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, so you can expect your mood to improve if you take lion’s mane mushroom supplements. You’ll also likely feel more clear-headed and focused due to the beneficial properties of lion’s mane mushrooms on mental health and cognitive functions.

Does lion’s mane affect sleep?

Lion’s mane will not make you sleepy, but studies suggest that the anxiety-relieving effect of lion’s mane could help you fall asleep easier.

A double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the effects of lion’s mane on depression and anxiety in Japanese menopausal women shows that this adaptogenic mushroom could reduce symptoms of these mental health conditions.

Thus, if a mental health condition is affecting your sleep, taking lion’s mane could help you fall asleep and alleviate symptoms of insomnia.

Is lion’s mane addiction a risk when consuming this mushroom?

No, lion’s mane addiction is not a risk of consuming this mushroom. Hericium erinaceus does not contain psilocybin and does not make you high. Since it does not have psychoactive effects, there is no risk of addiction when taking lion’s mane.

Can you take lion’s mane with antidepressants?

Yes, you can take lion’s mane with antidepressants. While there are some lion’s mane drug interactions to be wary of, such as the interaction with anticoagulants which can slow down wound healing, this fungus does not interact with antidepressants.

What is the ideal lion’s mane dosage for neuropathy?

Lion’s mane seems to reduce neuropathic pain. To get this lion’s mane benefit, it's best to take about 500-1000 mg of Hericium erinaceus 1-3 times a day. Ideal doses of lion’s mane for neuropathy will differ from person to person, so you should experiment until you find the dosage that works for you.

Can I use lion’s mane to treat psoriatic arthritis?

Yes, you can use lion’s mane to treat psoriatic arthritis. Hericium erinaceus is great at reducing inflammation in the body, which makes it a great addition to your skin care routine if you have psoriasis or any illness associated with psoriasis, including psoriatic arthritis.

Forij Disclaimer

This article was written strictly for informational purposes. This website is not intended to inform about professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any kind. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For additional information, talk to a medical professional.