Nootropic
Lion's Mane Mushroom
Also known as: Hericium erinaceus, Yamabushitake, Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus), Bearded tooth mushroom
Brain-supporting mushroom that also has immune-modulating and gut-healing properties through nerve growth factor stimulation.
Primary uses
- Cognitive function
- Memory
- Nerve regeneration
- Neuroprotection
- Cognitive support
- Gut health
- Immune modulation
How it works
- Stimulates NGF synthesis
- Promotes neurogenesis
- Supports myelin production
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500-3000 mg daily
- Timing
- Any time; may take weeks for effects
- With food
- Optional
- Duration
- 8+ weeks for cognitive benefits
- Special populations
- Cognitive decline, students
Forms
- Fruiting body extract
- Mycelium on grain
- Dual extract
- Fresh/culinary
Safety
Common side effects
- Mild GI upset
- Itchy skin (rare)
Contraindications
- Mushroom allergy
Products containing Lion's Mane Mushroom
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Lion's Mane Mushroom on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
See all products →Evidence notes
Unique NGF-stimulating properties
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Cited research for Lion's Mane Mushroom
Clinical studies referenced across Formulate guides that mention lion's mane mushroom. Each links to the full study page with PubMed source + the guides that cite it.
- Nagano M, Shimizu K, Kondo R, et al. (2010)Biomedical Research
Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake
- Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, et al. (2009)Phytotherapy Research
Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial
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