Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) has gained attention for its potential to alleviate fatigue, with some scientific evidence supporting its use, though the strength of the evidence is limited. Preclinical studies in animals have demonstrated that lion’s mane extracts may exert anti-fatigue effects. For example, a 2015 study in mice found that supplementation with lion’s mane improved endurance during swimming tests and decreased markers of physical fatigue, possibly due to antioxidant activity and the modulation of energy metabolism.^[1] Another animal study suggested that lion’s mane could enhance mitochondrial function, which is central to energy production and fatigue resistance.^[2]

In humans, the evidence is sparse but promising. A small number of clinical trials have reported that lion’s mane supplementation may improve subjective feelings of fatigue and enhance mood or cognitive function—factors often intertwined with perceived fatigue.^[3] One randomized controlled trial in menopausal women found that consuming lion's mane cookies for 4 weeks led to reduced feelings of irritation and anxiety, as well as improved concentration, which may indirectly support fatigue reduction.^[4]

Despite these findings, the number of robust, large-scale human studies directly measuring fatigue outcomes is limited. Most available evidence is preclinical or involves small sample sizes and indirect measures. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale for lion’s mane in supporting fatigue—primarily based on antioxidant and neuroprotective effects—more research is needed for firm conclusions.

1. Mori et al., J Nutr Sci Vitaminol, 2015.
2. Zhang et al., Int J Biol Macromol, 2017.
3. Nagano et al., Biomedical Research, 2010.
4. Mori et al., Phytotherapy Research, 2009.

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