Written by Kyle Ustach | BScEcon
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
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The use of lion’s mane dates back centuries in Eastern culture, particularly in China. The ancient Chinese were some of the first to consume lion's mane and understand its powerful antioxidant properties. Lion’s Mane is a powerful mushroom that can be found on the tree trunks of dying oak, walnut, birch, and maple trees. Its name comes from the appearance of long, shaggy spines that resemble a lion’s mane.
Lion’s mane mushroom extract has been used for several health purposes such as digestion, sleep aid, to stimulate nerve growth, and improve energy levels. Like other medicinal mushrooms, it contains the antioxidant beta glucans, which has numerous health benefits. It also contains naturally occurring active compounds, such as Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which helps brain and cognitive function.
In this article, we will help you identify the 7 best lion’s mane supplements on the market.
7 Best Lion's Mane Supplements
- Overall Best: Host Defense Lion's Mane
- Best Budget: Horbäach Lion's Mane
- Best Powder: BulkSupplements Lions Mane
- Best Gummy: PerpetuaLife Shrooms
- Best Liquid: Mary Ruth's Lion's Mane
- Best Coffee: Four Sigmatic Think Coffee
- Best High Potency: Toniiq Lion's Mane
SFS Pick
Host Defense
Budget Pick
Horbaach
Powder Pick
BulkSupplements
1. Overall Best Lion's Mane Supplement: Host Defense Lion's Mane
Host Defense Lion’s Mane is the best overall lion’s mane mushroom supplement, specialized for memory and nerve support. This product focuses on clearing brain fog and boosting memory with the mushroom’s mycelium. It also provides cerebral and nervous system support as it contains an important Nerve Growth Factor.
Host Defense is brought to you by renowned mycology expert Paul Stamets. They use sustainably cultivated, certified organic mushrooms that are grown in the United States. These Lion’s Mane capsules contain 1 gram per serving plus 550mg polysaccharides.
Pros
- Vegetarian capsules
- Organic and non-GMO
- Freeze-dried and activated for continued support
Cons
- Two capsules per serving
Sustainably cultivated, certified organic and U.S. grown mushrooms from the forest, to our farm, to you...
2. Best Budget Lion's Mane Supplement: Horbäach Lion's Mane
Horbaäch is a company that has produced industry-leading vitamins and supplements for over 40 years. Horbaäch Lion's Mane is packed with a high concentration of lion’s mane, which contributes to it being the best budget product.
One serving delivers 4200 mg of lion’s mane. It also contains BioPerine, a black pepper extract that helps with optimal absorption and bioavailability.
Pros
- Vegetarian capsules
- Superior formula contains 4200 mg per serving
- Free of gluten, lactose, soy, wheat, and yeast
Cons
- Sometimes out of stock
Provides the equivalent of 4,200 mg of Lion's Mane per serving. Made with BioPerine for optimal absorption and bioavailability...
3. Best Powder Lion's Mane Supplement: BulkSupplements Lions Mane
Bulk Supplements is a company that specializes in producing bulk quantities of high quality supplements. BulkSupplements lion's mane mushroom is rich in antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as the potential to enhance cognitive functioning.
One serving of this lion’s mane mushroom extract is approximately 500 mg, or ⅕ teaspoon of lion’s mane powder. Each bag contains 200 servings of the best lion’s mane powder available.
Pros
- Comes in powder and capsule form
- Gluten-free
- No soy, dairy, yeast, sugar, or other additives
Cons
- US shipping only
BulkSupplements lion's mane extract provides 500mg per 1/5 teaspoon that you can mix into your...
4. Best Gummy Lion's Mane Supplement: PerpetuaLife Shrooms
PerpetualLife Shrooms is a mushroom supplement that contains lion’s mane and nine other premium mushrooms. This lion's mane mushroom product combines mycelium and fruiting bodies of various mushrooms that have different active compounds, and therefore different benefits. Some of these include energy, liver support, and healthy brain function.
This product contains 60 gummies and each serving of two gummies contains 250 mg of lion's mane, as well as 250 mg of each of the other mushrooms.
Pros
- 10 types of mushrooms
- Vegan, gluten free, organic and non-GMO
- Comes in gummy form
Cons
- Potential mushroom allergies
- Some people prefer pure Lion’s mane products
Harness the source of one of natures most powerful, and magical creations: Mushrooms. Don't settle for just 1 or 2 mushrooms when you can get 10 all in 1 product...
5. Best Liquid Lion's Mane Supplement: Mary Ruth's Lion's Mane
Mary Ruth’s Lion’s Mane is a liquid tincture product made from organic lion’s mane mushrooms. Mary Ruth’s is a California company that takes pride in using the healthiest non-GMO, plant-based, and vegan ingredients.
This lion's mane product highlights the neuroprotective, nootropic, and nervine benefits of lion’s mane. This tincture bottle is one fluid ounce and contains a two month supply.
Pros
- Comes in liquid form
- Vegan certified organic and non-GMO
- Subscribe-and-save option
Cons
- Does not have exact dosage in mg
Mary Ruth's Lion's Mane is USDA organic, non-GMO, vegan, no synthetic or artificial colors, made in a GMP Facility...
6. Best Lion's Mane Coffee Supplement: Four Sigmatic Think Coffee
Four Sigmatic developed organic mushroom ground coffee that contains lion’s mane, chaga, and mushroom powder. Chaga is one of several types of medicinal mushrooms that are high in antioxidants. This dark roast, immune-boosting coffee will help improve focus and immune support.
Four Sigmatic prides itself on their delicious coffee flavor, free of any mushroom taste. Simply mix this with hot water and you have a 250 mg serving of lion’s mane, combined with the caffeine of the coffee for a delicious punch of energy.
Pros
- Certified organic, vegan and gluten-free
- 100% arabica coffee beans contains 50 mg of caffeine per serving
- Contains chaga, which is loaded with antioxidants and immune-boosting properties
Cons
- Coffee isn't for everyone
- Not as convenient as capsules
Coffee plus Lion’s Mane and Chaga equals a deliciously balanced brew for brain and body. All of the things you love about coffee, none of the things you don’t...
7. Best High Potency Lion's Mane Supplement: Toniiq Lion's Mane
Toniiq Lion’s Mane uses the highest-quality mushroom powder and a patented extraction process to deliver a concentrated dose of 1800 mg of lion’s mane and 540 mg of polysaccharides per dose. These polysaccharides are made from pure full-spectrum fruiting bodies that are loaded with additional health benefits.
Each bottle contains 120 veggie capsules, or 40 day supply, of this 10x concentrated dose.
Pros
- Made from pure full-spectrum fruiting body
- Contains high levels of healthy polysaccharides
- Third-party lab tested and USDA certified organic
Cons
- Some complain of the potent smell
- High potency may lead to higher chance of side effects, such as headache
Toniiq Lions Mane mushroom supplement contains 1800mg of some of the highest quality Lion’s Mane mushroom powder – grown and cultivated using a patented extraction process...
What are Lion's Mane Mushrooms?
Lion’s mane mushrooms are wild mushrooms that have a wide range of health benefits. They can be found growing on the trunks of dead or injured trees, as well as fallen logs. Unlike most normal mushrooms, lion’s mane grows high in the air and hangs from the mushroom cap, resembling a lion’s mane.
It contains powerful antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties. Other health benefits include improved mental clarity, maintained glucose levels, aid in digestion, stimulated nerve growth, and they contain beneficial gut bacteria. These mushrooms are sometimes called “the smart mushroom” for their powerful effect on cognitive performance.
Benefits of Lion's Mane:
Lion’s mane has a wide variety of uses and numerous health benefits, dating back to traditional Chinese medicine.
One of the most significant benefits is its effect on brain and nervous system. It can stimulate nerve growth by promoting neuron development. Some of the other common benefits include improved immune system, heightened mental clarity, improved focus, stress reducing properties, and beneficial gut bacteria among others.
Here are a few studies that support some of these claimed health benefits of lion's mane extract.
1. Decrease Fatigue
One of the benefits of lion’s mane that is attractive to users is its ability to decrease fatigue. Fatigue can often lead to brain fog and other unwanted adverse effects, so taking lion's mane is one way to combat this.
One study tested this theory by dividing mice into four groups of various dosages. One group was a control, then there were low-dose, moderate-dose, and high-dose of lion’s mane. All of the mice performed a swimming test until exhaustion and then were tested for various parameters related to fatigue, including lactic acid. In conclusion, they found that lion’s mane supplementation resulted in significant decreased fatigue by decreasing blood lactic acid, serum urea nitrogen, and other fatigue-causing biochemicals.1
2. Reduce Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is one of the most common underlying conditions in adults and it can lead to a series of health problems. Lion’s mane mushroom supplements have powerful antioxidant compounds, such as beta glucans and other polypeptides, that can reduce inflammation. Reducing inflammation is vital to building a stronger immune system.
One study tested this suggested benefit by experimenting on mice with ulcerative colitis. Twenty mice were exposed to dextran sulfan sodium, which induced acute intestinal inflammation. The scientists then orally administered lion’s mane mushroom supplement to some of the mice. The mice that were treated with the mushroom extract improved significantly compared to the ones that were not. The lion’s mane was able to suppress the production of inflammatory mediators and suppress oxidative stress.2
3. Increase Focus
The ability of lion’s mane to increase focus is connected to its ability to stimulate growth of brain cells and nerve growth factors. Studies have shown that lion’s mane stimulates Nerve Growth Factor, which is vital to cognitive performance. This also contributes to overall brain health.
One study in older adults tested this theory by administering 3 grams of lion’s mane mushroom extract powder daily for four months to test subjects. They were able to measure results using a cognitive function scale based on the Revised Hasegawa Dementia Scale (HDS-R). The results showed that mushroom supplementation significantly improved focus and mental functioning. It also declined significantly once the lion’s mane mushroom extract was stopped.3
4. Boost Energy
This product’s ability to boost energy relates to the same properties that help decrease fatigue. As you know by now, this mushroom is loaded with antioxidants that prevent oxidative damage. By reducing oxidative stress, we are thereby reducing fatigue, which would provide a boost of energy.
Another way lion’s mane helps boost energy is by the effect it has on blood sugar levels. With Thanksgiving just passing, it's likely several people can relate to the feeling of a “crash” following a large meal of carbohydrates. Studies have shown that lion's mane lowers blood sugar levels by blocking the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which is responsible for breaking down carbs in the small intestine. By blocking this enzyme, the body is unable to digest the carbs, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. This prevents such “crashes” and provides a much needed energy boost.4
Side Effects of Lion's Mane
There's a lack of human studies on the side effects of lion’s mane, however it appears to be harmless. The only noted side effects appear in people who are allergic or sensitive to mushrooms. In extreme cases, people with allergies may experience itchy skin, rashes, or difficulty breathing.
One study was conducted on mice to determine possible toxic effects of the extract from the fruiting bodies of lion’s mane. The study examined the effects at three different doses and concluded there were no adverse side effects on behavior, body weight, hematology, clinical biochemistry, and relative organ weights.5
What to look for when buying Lion's Mane Supplements:
With so many different brands and forms of lion’s mane supplements on the market, there are a few things you should look for when choosing the product for you. Look for the items below when you are looking for the best lion's mane supplements.
1. Ingredients
The main ingredient should be Hericum Erinaceus, or Lion’s Mane. These products come in either gelatin capsules, tablet form, gummy chews, liquid, powdered form, or in coffee. Products such as gummies and coffee will contain other ingredients that are typical for those items. You should look for options that contain a minimum of 500 mg per serving.
2. Testing/Transparency
Lion’s mane products should be third party lab tested to ensure quality and no contaminants. Look for the company to be stamped with cGMP, which is the Current Good Manufacturing Practices. Products that claim to be organic should be stamped USDA certified organic. Look for similar stampings for non-GMO, vegan, and contaminate-free mushroom extracts. The beta glucans in the mushrooms are the major source of the health benefits, so companies that disclose their beta glucans content are at the top of the list.
3. Form
Lion’s mane supplement can come in capsule form, powder form, liquid tincture, gummies, and coffee. The form of lion’s mane supplement you choose should be based on your preferences. Capsules and gummies make for an easy, convenient way to take your supplements while others may enjoy the caffeinated boost from the coffee mixture.
4. Price
Considering there are a number of different types and sizes of lion’s mane products, you should base the price on a per mg basis. Some companies offer a subscribe-and-save option, which is a great way to conserve money. Buying in bulk quantities may be another way to potentially save money.
5. Reviews
While we try to point out the most common opinions on these supplements, we always suggest you do your own research as well and utilize online reviews. Reading reviews can help you identify which lion’s mane products are best for you, as well as determining any adverse effects.
Lion's Mane FAQs
What is Lion's Mane supplement good for?
Aside from promoting immune function, it is also great at improving brain function and mitigating negative symptoms of several diseases. For example, lion’s mane extract can treat neurodegenerative diseases by regenerating brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus. It is also great for dementia, nervous system injuries, ulcers, heart disease, diabetes, and even may help fight cancer.
What are the negative effects of Lion's Mane?
There are no negative effects of taking lion’s mane. As we stated previously, it is important to do your own research and contact a health practitioner regarding how much lion's mane you should take. If you have allergies or sensitivity to mushrooms, you should definitely avoid these products.
Can you take Lion's Mane every day?
Yes, it is recommended to take it every day. You should regularly use this product for optimal effectiveness and prolonged immune system support. Long term benefits become more pronounced the longer you use this mushroom. You should stop taking lion’s mane and consult with a medical professional if you start to experience unexpected side effects.
How does Lion's Mane make you feel?
Lion’s mane and other mushroom extracts have a number of effects on the central nervous system, as well as cognitive performance. It is said to help treat anxiety and depression, so it can elevate your mood if you suffer from these. It also improves energy, focus, alertness, and cognitive performance, so it can definitely impact the way you feel in a positive manner.
Summary
Lion’s mane mushroom supplements have been used for health purposes dating back to traditional Chinese medicine. These supplements are derived from mushroom extract and contain powerful antioxidants, such as beta glucans, and other beneficial compounds. It can be used to treat a wide variety of diseases and ailments, as well as to promote cognitive and neurological health and a stronger immune system. We hope this post helped you in finding the proper Lion’s mane product can lead to improved mood, energy, and overall quality of life.
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References
- LIU, JIANQING, et al. “Anti-Fatigue Activities of Polysaccharides Extracted from Hericium Erinaceus.” Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, vol. 9, no. 2, 16 Dec. 2014, pp. 483–487, 10.3892/etm.2014.2139.
- Qin, Mingming, et al. “Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ethanol Extract of Lion’s Mane Medicinal Mushroom, Hericium Erinaceus (Agaricomycetes), in Mice with Ulcerative Colitis.” International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, vol. 18, no. 3, 2016, pp. 227–234, 10.1615/intjmedmushrooms.v18.i3.50.
- Mori, Koichiro, et al. “Improving Effects of the Mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium Erinaceus) on Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.” Phytotherapy Research, vol. 23, no. 3, Mar. 2009, pp. 367–372, 10.1002/ptr.2634.
- He, Xirui, et al. “Structures, Biological Activities, and Industrial Applications of the Polysaccharides from Hericium Erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) Mushroom: A Review.” International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, vol. 97, Apr. 2017, pp. 228–237, 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.01.040.
- Lakshmanan, Hariprasath, et al. “Haematological, Biochemical and Histopathological Aspects of Hericium Erinaceus Ingestion in a Rodent Model: A Sub-Chronic Toxicological Assessment.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 194, 24 Dec. 2016, pp. 1051–1059,pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27816657/, 10.1016/j.jep.2016.10.084.
Kyle Ustach
Author