Lion’s Mane Mushroom for Cognition

A 2009 study found that 1000mg of Lion’s mane mushroom taken 3x daily significantly improved cognitive scores in adults 50-80 years old compared to placebo over 16 weeks. This effect may not last or may diminish after stopping Lion’s mane mushroom. Compounds in Lion’s mane mushroom have been shown to stimulate nerve growth and repair. No adverse effects were seen but lion’s mane mushroom may cause digestive or other side effects.

Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2009 Mar;23(3):367-72. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2634. PMID: 18844328.

Contato AG, Conte-Junior CA. Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus): A Neuroprotective Fungus with Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antimicrobial Potential-A Narrative Review. Nutrients. 2025 Apr 9;17(8):1307. doi: 10.3390/nu17081307. PMID: 40284172; PMCID: PMC12030463.