Are lion's mane mushrooms healthy? Why yes, they are. Lion's mane has so many health benefits that it's hard to count them all. That's why we include it in our granola. Hericium erinaceus packs a slew of amazing bioactive compounds that affect everything from neurogenesis to depression.
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What are lion's mane mushrooms?
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How much lion's mane mushroom is in Forij granola?
Let's take a look at this bizarre-looking fungus and the latest scientific research about its effects and benefits.
Hericium erinaceus, otherwise known as lion's mane, bearded tooth, the monkey head mushroom, or pom pom mushroom, is an edible and adaptogenic mushroom. It's native to Europe, Asia, and North America, prefers cooler climates, and is considered to be among the healthiest mushrooms in the world.
In the wild, lion’s mane is most commonly found in wooded areas during the summer and fall.
Lion's mane usually feeds on dead trees, making it saprotrophic. However, it can also be found on certain living trees, where it lives as a parasite.
If tromping through the woods isn’t your thing, you can grow lion’s mane mushrooms yourself.
Or, you can buy lion’s mane online or from a local market that carries them; just do your research on lion’s mane sellers in your city.
There's plenty of research on the medicinal properties of Hericium erinaceus, and the results are promising.
“Recent evidence demonstrates that [Hericium erinaceus] is helpful to various diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, immunoregulatory, and many types of cancer.” (Jiang, et. al.)
Here are some of the potential health benefits of the lion’s mane mushroom:
From an evidence based perspective, these medicinal fungi have incredible potential and should be investigated further.
Hericium erinaceus has been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Still, modern society only recently began to appreciate the various lion’s mane mushroom benefits. These culinary and adaptogenic mushrooms are an incredible source of antioxidants and can aid in the protection of various internal organs.
So why is lion’s mane one of the hottest health topics in 2023? It seems to be a cognitive health powerhouse–among other health benefits!
A few of the bioactive compounds in lion’s mane. Science is still trying to understand all the health benefits of them. Source: Nature, 2012
The fungus’s cognitive health benefits are compelling. It’s important to note that, while much lion’s mane clinical research has been done on laboratory animals, it looks extremely promising for neuronal health and mental function.
Two different types of compounds in lion’s mane—diterpenoids and erinacines—“easily cross the blood-brain barrier, and have been found to have neurotrophic and...neuroprotective effects,” according to a recent study on the neurological activity of lion’s mane.
Studies correlate improved cognitive functions and stronger neuronal cells with lion’s mane ingestion. So, just how far do the mushroom’s brain boosting benefits extend?
Clinical trials also show that lion's mane may be beneficial for progressive illnesses, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s, in addition to improving overall memory and cognitive health. To learn more about the many effects of this fungus on the brain, check out our detailed post on lion’s mane brain benefits.
Research on Hericium erinaceus and nerve growth is still scarce, but some recent studies appear to confirm this amazing benefit. According to a study published by the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, they do so by stimulating the production of nerve growth factors:
“Hericenones and erinacines isolated from the medicinal mushroom Hericium erinaceus can induce NGF synthesis in nerve cells.”
A 2023 study done by researchers at the University of Queensland Brain Institute found that "the lion’s mane mushroom had a significant impact on the growth of brain cells and improved memory formation," validating that these mushrooms magnify memory by boosting nerve growth.
Though there is no research on the neurogenesis potential of lion’s mane in humans, available animal and cell research is promising.
The SciShow YouTube channel summarizes the current state of research about lion’s mane and its neurological benefits in this video. Give it a watch!
For even more of a deep dive, read our guide to lion’s mane and neurogenesis.
In addition to lion's mane mushrooms slowing down the progression of dementia and alleviating the effects of a stroke, they have promising benefits on overall neurological health and nerve regeneration.
A 2011 study investigated the impact of Hericium erinaceus on nerve injury recovery. Results suggest that daily intake of this fungus could stimulate the regeneration of injured nerves.
Another in vitro experiment examined whether the mushrooms could influence the process of myelination (myelin production). Myelin is a layer that forms around nerves and protects them, which is why its production is integral for nerve health. Lion's mane extract promotes the normal development of brain cells and myelin.
The newest research on lion's mane and Alzheimer's disease is very promising. For example, a study published in 2022 concluded that “Hericium erinaceus has therapeutic potential and may facilitate memory enhancement in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.”
A 2016 study explored the neuroprotective effects of lion's mane on induced Alzheimer's disease in mice. Hericium erinaceus drastically improved the neurological health of test subjects. Treated mice needed less time than a placebo group to successfully finish various cognitive tests, such as a water maze.
Another Chinese double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial looked at the effects of the lion's mane mycelium on Alzheimer's and mild cognitive impairment. The mycelium, found in the fruiting body of the mushroom, was demonstrated to “possess anti-dementia activity in mouse model[s] of Alzheimer's disease and people with mild cognitive impairment.”
In short, lion’s mane mushroom seems to aid in neurogenesis and to fight against diseases of neurological decline such as Alzheimer’s. To learn more about the amazing benefits this mushroom can provide for Alzheimer’s patients, read our article on lion’s mane and Alzheimer’s disease.
Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects dopamine-producing neurons. Since lion's mane has demonstrated nerve regeneration properties, it may alleviate the symptoms of this disease.
A study on the effects of lion’s mane on traumatic nerve injury and nerve degeneration found that “Hericium erinaceus…may be important in redox stress response mechanisms and neuroprotection, preventing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease.”
Another study, published in 2020, examined whether lion's mane mushrooms could slow down the neurodegenerative process of Parkinson's disease. Researchers concluded that erinacine, a compound derived from Hericium erinaceus, reduces neurotoxicity in the MPTP Parkinson's model.
Although more research is needed, it's safe to say that lion's mane mushrooms may help slow the progression of Parkinson's disease, especially if combined with traditional medication and an overall healthy lifestyle.
According to a 2015 scientific article, Hericium erinaceus may aid in stroke prevention. The mushroom fruit bodies and mycelia are full of bioactive compounds that seem to have cardioprotective and antihypertensive properties.
In addition to helping lower the probability of having a stroke, lion’s mane also has protective properties that aid in recovery after a stroke.
A 2014 study investigated the “nerve-growth properties of Hericium erinaceus mycelium”; specifically whether lion's mane mycelium can (1) protect against ischemic stroke and (2) assist in nerve regeneration after a stroke.
The answer appears to be yes on both counts.
The findings confirmed that Hericium erinaceus helps reduce the extent of brain injury caused by stroke-restricted blood flow to areas of the brain.
The study also indicated that Hericium erinaceus mycelium has “nerve-growth properties” for post-stroke recovery. Said neural regeneration properties also “include the prevention of ischemic injury to neurons,” which occurs during a stroke.
Platelet buildup in blood vessels causes blood clots, which can cause problems in your lungs, brain, and extremities. Luckily, lion’s mane seems to aid in cardiovascular health, and even prevent atherosclerosis and heart disease.
“Hericium erinaceus was found to be the most potent in vitro inhibitor of both LDL oxidation and HMG Co-A reductase activity, having therapeutic potential for the prevention of oxidative stress-mediated vascular diseases.”—Mohammad Azizur Rahman
A 2010 study found that hericenone B, a compound found in lion's mane, worked to lessen platelet aggregation. This indicates that lion’s mane could be useful for those at high risk of thrombosis (blood clots that can block veins and arteries).
Hericium erinaceus can also aid in fat metabolism. In another 2010 study, researchers administered lion's mane to mice on a high-fat diet for 28 days. Without any changes in diet, body fat percentage and levels of triacylglycerol (a type of fat found in the blood) decreased.
Another study came to a similar conclusion. Lion's mane decreased levels of low-density, bad cholesterol (LDL), and increased levels of high-density, good cholesterol (HDL) in rats.
Nearly one in five Americans lives with some form of mental health issue, most commonly anxiety or depression. Whether you're struggling with mental health problems yourself, want to reap the spiritual benefits of lion's mane, or just want to achieve more mental clarity and focus, research suggests lion's mane can help you in your quest.
A few studies show promising results when it comes to using lion's mane for memory, overall brain health, clarity, and focus.
For example, an animal study published in 2017 looked at the effects of the mushroom on neuronal health and memory. The results show lion's mane significantly increased recognition memory, nerve growth, and neurotransmission in healthy mice.
A previously-mentioned study found that:
“In a behavior test on wild-type mice, oral supplementation with H. erinaceus induced a statistically significant improvement in spatial short-term and visual recognition memory.”
Another study examined the effects of medicinal mushrooms, Hericium erinaceus included, on aging brains. Although it was an in vitro study, the results indicate improvement in cognitive functions from daily lion’s mane consumption.
Lion's mane seems to reduce anxiety, as well as lessen the symptoms of many other mental health issues. A recent animal study found that “mice receiving H. erinaceus had…increased exploratory behavior toward novel objects,” which is indicative of lower levels of anxiety in these animals.
A 2010 study investigated the clinical effects of lion's mane on various symptoms of menopause, including anxiety. Half of the 30 women in the study were given cookies that contained the mushroom, while medical reviewers gave the other half a placebo.
After four weeks, the participants taking the mushroom reported better mental health. They scored lower than the placebo group on psychological tests that measure irritability and anxiety.
Another study looked at the effects of Hericium erinaceus extract on depression and anxiety. Results show that the mushroom extract reduces depressive and anxious behaviors by promoting the growth of new nerve cells in the hippocampus.
The research on lion's mane and depression shows promising results. A scientific article on the therapeutic potential of lion’s mane for depressive disorders found that:
“Based on the neurotrophic and neurogenic pathophysiology of depression, H. erinaceus may be a potential alternative medicine for the treatment of depression.”
This scientific article, published in 2020, took a critical look at the research linking lion's mane and depression. Although still at an early stage, this research demonstrates that lion's mane significantly relieves depressive episodes through monoaminergic regulation.
Erinacine, one of the bioactive compounds found in lion's mane, could be an active agent in the treatment of depressive disorders. A 2018 study showed that erinacine produces antidepressant effects by modulating certain pathways and blocking NF-kB signals in mice.
To learn more about how lion’s mane can help you reduce symptoms of depression, read our article on lion’s mane and depression.
There isn't a lot of research on lion's mane and ADHD, but the mushroom has demonstrated potential benefits for focus and memory. Given that ADHD involves compromised focus and memory, it's possible that lion's mane may benefit people living with this condition.
Many people with ADHD also use lion’s mane due to its ability to alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders that often accompany ADHD, such as anxiety and depression.
To learn more, read our article on the benefits of lion’s mane on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and also check out our Adderall and lion’s mane comparison.
Lion’s mane shows promise for promoting digestive health.
In a recent study, researchers demonstrated that “H. erinaceus extracts could promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria…which shows clinical potential in relieving irritable bowel disease by regulating gut microbiota and immune system.”
Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacteria that causes ulcers in the stomach and intestines. In some instances, these infections can even contribute to stomach cancer.
Several studies examined how Hericium erinaceus may inhibit Helicobacter pylori. One revealed that ethanol extracts from lion's mane hindered the production of these harmful gut bacteria.
An in vitro study from 2013 came to a similar conclusion. A medicinal mushroom supplement made of 14 mushroom species, including lion's mane, inhibited the growth of H. pylori in an isolated cell.
A randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of a mushroom extract on ulcerative colitis. The extract contained several mushrooms, including lion's mane.
The results concluded that the extract had beneficial effects on symptoms of ulcerative colitis. It was particularly useful in mild to moderate cases, and for those who used conventional medication in addition to the extract.
Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides possess various bioactive benefits, including anti-hyperglycemic properties. Essentially, these lion’s mane compounds can help lower blood sugar levels—quite useful for those with diabetes.
A 2013 study looked at the effects of a water-soluble extract of lion's mane in rats with diabetes. After 28 days on the medicinal mushrooms, blood glucose levels in the subject rats lowered significantly.
Another study looked at the protective effects of Hericium erinaceus on neuropathic pain caused by diabetes. Levels of pain improved in rats after taking a lion's mane supplement for six weeks.
To learn more about taking lion’s mane as a diabetic, take a look at our article on the benefits of Hericium erinaceus on diabetes.
Many medicinal mushrooms exhibit incredible anti-tumor potential, including lion's mane. A previously mentioned study cites that“four different polysaccharides isolated from the H. erinaceus sporocarp show antitumor activity: xylans, glucoxylans, heteroxyloglucans, and galactoxyloglucans.”
Cerebrosides found in lion's mane fruiting bodies could also be beneficial for cancer patients. A recent study assessed how cerebroside E, a compound found in lion’s mane, can aid in cancer treatment. The compound was shown to slow down the growth of new cancer cells by inhibiting the formation of new blood vessels that would supply the cancer cells with blood.
Hericium erinaceus also contains phytochemicals (bioactive compounds) that may have therapeutic potential against certain types of cancer, including leukemia and breast cancer.
Lion's mane may also possess antimetastatic activity, especially for lung cancer metastasis. A 2013 study found that the mushroom strongly elicited cancer cell death by inhibiting metastasis of cancer cells.
If we were to list every study on the benefits of lion’s mane on various types of cancer, we’d be here all day. To learn more, read our detailed review of lion’s mane cancer benefits.
An animal study investigated the effects of lion's mane polysaccharides on immune health in mice. Results suggest that Hericium erinaceus improves immune function by enhancing both cell and humoral immunity.
The medicinal fungus can also aid in the regulation of the gut microbiome. A 2017 study revealed that a protein isolated from lion's mane acted as a probiotic and was beneficial for metabolism, in general. Given that the gut plays a major role in the immune system, a healthy gut microbiome is crucial for optimal immune health.
Another study looked at the potential antibacterial effects of Hericium erinaceus in mice. The results suggest that the lion's mane mushroom extract activated innate immune cells, thus helping the body fight bacterial infections.
Hericium erinaceus also appears to aid in battling fungal infections, a common issue people with poor immune systems face, according to a 2022 study on lion’s mane and Candida albicans. This study found that lion’s mane “reduced the damage of C. albicans to the visceral tissue of infected mice and improved the survival rate of mice.”
Antioxidant properties and the ability to fight inflammation are among the many benefits of lion's mane mushrooms. A 2014 study found that water-soluble oligosaccharides found in Hericium erinaceus had incredible antioxidant activity. Another study, published in 2022, examined the antiinflammatory potential of four compounds found in lion’s mane:
“The four typical aromatic compounds were evaluated for their inhibition effects on the secretion of TNF-α, IL-6 and NO, three major proinflammatory mediators, in the macrophage RAW 264.7 model. Two of them showed moderate inhibitory effects indicating their potential anti-inflammatory activity, which may provide the basis for the traditional medical use of H. erincacus.”
A 2015 study examined lion's mane mushroom’s ability to reduce inflammation in mice with acute alcohol poisoning. The mice that were taking lion's mane supplements had significantly less severe liver damage than their control counterparts.
“The hepatic histopathological observations showed that [Hericium erinaceus] had a relatively significant role in mice model, which had alcoholic liver damage…(200 mg/kg BW) supplementation could restrain the hepatic damage caused by acute alcohol exposure.”
The lion's mane mushroom contains polysaccharides that can also lessen oxidative stress. A 2012 study found increased antioxidant enzymes in mice after just 15 days of ingesting lion's mane.
To learn more about the anti-inflammatory properties of lion’s mane, take a look at our article on Hericium erinaceus and inflammation.
Growing mushrooms yourself can be a fun and rewarding hobby if you’re prepared to devote significant time and resources to it.
If you’re going to attempt growing lion’s mane mushrooms, make sure you’ve got the right sort of facilities in your home or apartment.
You’ll need a cool, damp, dark space. Basements work well, though you can also set up a small mushroom growing operation in a cabinet or a closet.
You have three primary options when it comes to growing lion’s mane mushrooms yourself:
If you want to try it yourself, this handy tutorial shows you how to get started with a kit.
Still, fungi can be quite fickle, so don't get discouraged if you don't succeed the first time. Until you get the hang of it, you can find your supply of lion's mane at various farmers' markets, with the prices ranging from $8 to $38 per pound.
"Lion's mane mushroom" by cricketsblog is licensed under CC BY 2.0
There are plenty of ways to include lion's mane in your diet. Some of the most common include lion's mane mushroom capsules and lion’s mane mushroom powder or extract.
Alternatively, you can use dry mushrooms in recipes or opt for a fortified food that contains lion's mane. For example, Forij granola contains lion's mane mushroom extract and is extremely tasty as an added bonus!
Lion's mane mushroom powder is one of the most common ways to consume these fungi. You can put the powder in your smoothies, shakes, or simply mix it with water.
Mushroom powders allow you to reap all the lion's mane mushroom benefits. However, if you're not a fan of the earthy mushroom taste of lion's mane, you may want to find alternative ways to consume lion’s mane.
You can get a lion's mane mushroom supplement in many forms, with mushroom capsules being the most popular choice. You can take a lion’s mane capsule with your daily vitamins in the morning and reap the benefits of the mushroom all day. However, if you often forget to take your supplements, this option may not be the right choice for you.
If you're a fan of mushrooms, try a few mushroom recipes out yourself. There are plenty of lion's mane mushroom recipe options to choose from, so you can experiment until you find ones you like.
You can make lion's mane tea out of a powder supplement or buy a pre-made tea mix. If you're using a powder, pour a cup of boiling water over a teaspoon of it and let it steep for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, if you're using a pre-made mix, follow the instructions provided to you by the manufacturer.
Researchers suggest that lion's mane should be taken every day for at least two weeks if you want to reap its many benefits. And, is there a better way to get your daily dose of the fungus than a bowl of delicious cereal?
Forij offers healthy granola in three flavors: cinnamon, sunflower seed cacao, and vanilla almond. In one bowl of cereal, you'll get your daily dose of lion's mane mushroom.
Forij granola uses a high-quality lion's mane extract 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 extract, which is eight times more concentrated than a regular lion’s mane supplement. Therefore, you get as much lion's mane potency as you would if you were taking a 2000 mg mushroom powder supplement, all in one bowl of granola.
Yes, you can eat lion's mane mushrooms raw. However, you may not reap all of the benefits of lion's mane this way.
Since raw fungi are difficult to digest, your body may not absorb all of the nutrients.
If your gut has difficulty with uncooked vegetables, the mushroom may also give you gastrointestinal issues. If that happens, try taking lion's mane with food, preferably breakfast, to avoid gut problems. It’s better to take lion's mane mushrooms in the morning, as doing so will make you feel energized and focused throughout the day.
Research suggests that lion's mane mushrooms are safe to consume, even at high doses. Still, be cautious if you have a history of allergies, especially to other types of fungi, mold, or yeast. Read our full article on side effects of lion’s mane to learn more about this topic.
Lion's mane appears to interact with certain prescription drugs, such as blood clotting medication. Since Hericium erinaceus can slow down blood clotting, it may increase your chances of bleeding or bruising if you're on medication that also prevents blood clotting, such as aspirin.
You can't get addicted to lion's mane mushrooms. Lion's mane does not get you high and poses no risk of addiction, even if you consume it every day. If you stop using the mushrooms, you won't experience symptoms of withdrawal or other problems.
Although there is no definitive proof that this fungus can treat, cure, or prevent any disease on its own, there is plenty of research on the many health benefits of lion's mane. If you're interested in experiencing the full spectrum of benefits this mushroom can offer, you can't go wrong withForij Superfood Granola.
Forij granola is gluten-free, vegan, and full of mushroom nutrients. Who knew you could improve your focus, energy, and overall health just by eating delicious cereal?
Lion's mane does not give you a high in the psychotropic sense. However, it can positively affect your brain function. Regular use of lion's mane can lead to a decrease in depression and anxiety symptoms. Additionally, the mushroom may make you feel more relaxed, as well as improve your focus and memory.
Like with any herbal supplement, it may take a while before you notice the improving effects of lion's mane mushrooms. You will need to use it regularly for at least two weeks before you notice a difference in your overall well-being. And, of course, the longer you use it, the more pronounced the benefits will be.
Yes, it is perfectly safe to take lion's mane mushrooms on a daily basis, even in high doses. However, if you're concerned about lion's mane contraindications or if you are allergic to certain fungi, mold, or yeast, make sure to talk to your healthcare professional if you notice any side effects.
Lion's mane mushrooms are among the healthiest foods you could possibly find on the planet. Hericium erinaceus was shown to improve digestion, alleviate symptoms of various mental health issues, and even prevent cancer. This mushroom is a great addition to your diet, but you can also give lion's mane to your children.
When it comes to mushrooms, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Medicinal mushrooms such as the maitake mushroom, hedgehog mushroom, lion's mane, turkey tail, and reishi mushrooms each have their own sets of benefits.
Therefore, we always suggest taking more than one medicinal fungus, as combining them can only lead to a fuller range of benefits, including neuronal health and more.
Yes, there are many sources for certified organic mushrooms, including lion’s mane. You can find them online, as well as in most major cities.
No, lion’s mane can’t get you high. Mushrooms that can cause a high contain a compound called psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic that can alter your state of mind.
As lion’s mane does not contain psilocybin or other psychoactive compounds, there is no risk of you getting high from consuming the fungus.
No, lion's mane is not a poisonous mushroom. You can eat as much of this fungus as your heart desires. Plus, due to its distinct appearance, it's unlikely you'll mistake Hericium erinaceus for any poisonous mushroom.
No, lion's mane doesn't appear to cause anxiety. On the contrary, lion's mane mushrooms seem to reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition to its ability to make you feel more relaxed and focused, lion's mane mushrooms may be able to improve anxiety-related symptoms of OCD, as well as sleep problems, a common symptom of anxiety disorders.
Lion’s mane is not psychedelic and won’t make you hallucinate. Therefore, it’s completely safe to take these medicinal mushrooms during your workday, as they won’t impair your cognitive abilities.
Yes, lion's mane can be a great source of energy. This fungus can give you a natural energy boost but won't cause a midday energy crash, unlike caffeinated beverages such as coffee and green tea.
While it may not cure them, lion's mane was shown to be quite effective at alleviating migraines. If you experience frequent migraines, you could try taking lion's mane to lessen their severity.
Yes, lion's mane mushrooms appear to be incredibly beneficial for people with arthritis. This mushroom can alleviate pain and inflammation related to this ailment.
Yes, lion's mane is good for the skin. For example, research shows that Hericium erinaceus can aid in acne treatment. And, even if you don't have acne, lion's mane can help your skin look glowy and supple.
Centuries of use and anecdotal evidence suggest that lion's mane is safe to take while pregnant. However, due to the lack of scientific research on the effects of lion's mane on breastfeeding and pregnancy, many women choose not to take this mushroom while pregnant and breastfeeding.
There is no ideal lion’s mane dosage that’s perfect for every person and all health conditions. It’s best to start with a low to medium dosage of around 500 mg and work your way up until you notice an improvement. For more information about taking lion’s mane for specific health issues, read our lion’s mane dosage guide.
Yes, athletes can benefit from taking lion’s mane mushrooms as a preworkout supplement. These mushrooms have energizing properties and can aid in muscle recovery, as well as help you create a mind-muscle connection thanks to their focus-enhancing properties.
To read more about these benefits, read our article on lion’s mane for athletes and one on the benefits of lion’s mane for bodybuilders.
The information provided in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or illness and should not be taken as medical advice. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Before adding lion’s mane to your health and wellness routine, talk to a health care professional about the potential benefits, side effects, and uses of this mushroom.
