This may be a bold statement, but finding the best Lion’s Mane supplements may just change your life. Known for its ability to improve focus, reduce stress and help with everything from memory to your immune system, this mushroom could be a worthy addition to your health and wellness routine.
I, for one, first discovered the healing and strengthening powers of functional mushrooms while I was away travelling in New Zealand. The brand Mother Made (a New Zealand-founded brand) stood out to me when I was experiencing lots of stress and anxiety, and after investing in some supplements from them, I definitely felt that fade a little in my daily life.
Lion’s Mane (hericium erinaceus) is the current mushroom I am most interested in, and I have been keen to find offerings that are high quality. While the scientific research is still in its infancy overall, experts and initial reports suggest it could really help with cognitive function and improve focus, making it a brilliant option for your morning routine. Whether it’s a powder or liquid to mix in with your AM coffee or capsules to take with your first glass of water, there are a myriad of ways to enjoy this medicinal mushroom.
Having consulted with dieticians and nutritionists, I’ve put together a round-up of all the best Lion’s Mane supplements out there, tailored to every budget and preference. Here’s everything you need to know.
SKIP TO: How we tested Lion’s Mane supplements | What is Lion’s Mane and what are the benefits? | Are there any side effects of taking Lion’s Mane supplements? | Who should and who shouldn’t take Lion’s Mane?
Meet the experts:
- Lena Bakovic, Registered Dietitian
- Stephanie Smith, women’s health Nutritionist on behalf of women’s health platform Agora Health
How we tested the best Lion’s Mane supplements
Over the years, the GLAMOUR team has trialled countless Lion’s Mane supplements featured in this edit. We’ve tested the formulations over a minimum period of weeks, and rated the product on everything from taste and value for money to efficacy and dietary requirements. We also looked into whether they had extra factors like being gluten free, vegan and free from fillers or preservatives.
DISCLAIMER: This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Lion’s Mane supplements are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle or balanced diet. We strongly recommend that you speak to your doctor, nutritionist, dietitian or other healthcare professionals to ensure that you’re getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs.
FAQs on Lion’s Mane supplements:
What is Lion’s Mane and what are the benefits?
Most importantly, you should know that, “Lion’s Mane is a type of medicinal mushroom,” begins Smith. She adds: “these are mushrooms/fungi with purported pharmaceutical benefits.” Another word for this type of mushroom is ‘functional,’ which Bakovic says have taken off in recent years: “Their popularity has grown due in large to the mushrooms’ purported adaptogenic properties,” she explains. “Adaptogens, which have been a constituent of Eastern Medicine for many years, are thought to help with counteracting the effects of stress on our bodies.”
Indeed, stress management is thought to be one of the health benefits of this mushroom, along with a number of others, including brain health and the immune system. “In Chinese medicine, Lion’s Mane is thought of as a good all-rounder, with benefits for the whole body. However, Lion’s Mane has been particularly associated with brain and cognitive benefits, such as improved memory, focus and concentration as well as nervous system support.”
The scientific research behind Lion’s Mane suggests it could help with stress and focus/speed in completing tasks, but there is still work to be done on a larger scale.
Are there any side effects of taking Lion’s Mane supplements?
Side effects are generally rare with Lion’s Mane supplements, as they seem to be “well-tolerated” by most who can instead simply enjoy their potential benefits, according to Bakovic. “The side effects that have been reported are related to digestive upset, potentially allergic reactions, and skin rashes.”
As mentioned, when starting with Lion’s Mane, it’s worth chatting to a medical professional first, particularly if you take other medications or supplements. In particular, says Smith, “you should also be mindful of taking any other medicinal mushrooms with Lion’s Mane to ensure you are staying in the safe daily dose.”
Who should and who shouldn’t take Lion’s Mane?
Smith stresses that, “as with all supplements there is not always a need to take them,” while Bakovic adds: “before taking any supplement, it is recommended to discuss it first and foremost with a healthcare provider/physician to ensure that there are no potential dangers or drug/nutrient interactions.”
“However,” says Smith, “If people are looking for help with focus, concentration, nervous system support or would like to supplement specifically for brain and cognitive health then Lion’s Mane could be something of interest.” Both younger and older adults may benefit from Lion’s Mane, especially if these things mentioned by Smith are a concern to you.
In terms of who should avoid it, Bakovic notes that, “due to the limited amount of research supporting the benefits of these mushrooms at this time, and especially during pregnancy, it is advisable that pregnant women should avoid taking Lion’s Mane mushrooms or supplements.” This also applies to breastfeeding or those trying to get pregnant, says Smith, who also adds that you should stay away if you have any kind of mushroom allergy, too.