Lion's mane (ericium erinaceus)
Synopsis
Lion’s Mane is a white, shaggy mushroom that resembles a lion’s mane as it grows. Native to North America, Europe, and Asia, it has become one of the most celebrated medicinal mushrooms in modern integrative medicine due to its nootropic, neuroprotective, and digestive health benefits. Lion’s Mane contains unique compounds not found in other fungi—namely hericenones (from the fruiting body) and erinacines (from the mycelium)—both of which stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein crucial for the survival and regeneration of neurons.
Modern research supports its use in promoting cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity, making it a popular natural supplement for brain health, aging support, and even mood balance. Preliminary studies suggest that Lion’s Mane may help improve symptoms of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), reduce anxiety and depression, and protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Beyond its effects on the brain, Lion’s Mane has shown promise for supporting gut health (particularly in repairing mucosal linings), modulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and aiding in nerve recovery after injury. It is typically consumed as a hot-water extract, dual extract (with alcohol), powder, or capsule, derived from either the fruiting body, the mycelium, or both.
Historical Use:
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Japanese herbalism, Lion’s Mane has been used for centuries, primarily for its effects on the digestive system and overall vitality. In TCM, it is classified as a tonic for the “five internal organs,” especially the spleen, liver, and stomach. It was historically prescribed for treating gastric ulcers, chronic gastritis, and general debility, often prepared as a decoction or added to soups and porridges.
Buddhist monks in Japan, particularly those following the Yamabushi tradition (mountain ascetics), are believed to have consumed Lion’s Mane to enhance focus and spiritual clarity during meditation—earning the mushroom the nickname “monk’s mushroom.”
Though not as mythologized as Lingzhi (Reishi), Lion’s Mane was still regarded as a nourishing, restorative mushroom in East Asian folk medicine, sometimes reserved for scholars or elders due to its perceived effects on wisdom and longevity.
Its Western recognition is relatively recent, with most scientific studies on NGF stimulation and cognitive benefits emerging in the 21st century. Today, Lion’s Mane stands at the forefront of natural nootropic and neurological wellness supplements, combining ancient reverence with strong modern scientific interest.
Uses: Health Conditions
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Mental Illness (Scientific)
Mood Swings (Scientific)
Multiple Sclerosis (Scientific)
Muscle Tone (lack of) (Neither)
Myasthenia Gravis (Neither)
Narcolepsy (Neither)
Nerve Damage (Scientific)
Nervous Exhaustion (Scientific)
Nervousness (Scientific)
Neuralgia and Neuritis (Scientific)
Neurosis (Neither)
Nightmares (Neither)
Numbness (Scientific)
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (Neither)
Paralysis (Scientific)
Parkinson's Disease (Scientific)
Peripheral Neuropathy (Scientific)
Pets (supplements for) (Scientific)
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Anxiety Disorders (Scientific)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Concentration (poor) (Scientific)
Confusion (Scientific)
Depression (Scientific)
Dementia (Scientific)
Fatigue (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Scientific)
Stress (Traditional)
Tremors (Neither)
Worry (Scientific)
Body Systems
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Adrenal Medulla (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Parasympathetic Nervous System (Traditional)
Sympathetic Nervous System (Traditional)
Acetylcholine (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Nerves (Traditional)
Serotonin (Traditional)
Senses (Traditional)