I’m Not a Nutritionist, But Here’s Why I Take Lion’s Mane
Let’s get one thing out of the way—I’m not a nutritionist or dietitian. I’m just someone who has spent a lot of time learning about brain health and recovery, and along the way, I’ve found some things that seem to help. One of those is Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus).
I won’t make wild claims, but I will share what I’ve learned about this fascinating fungus and why many people—myself included—incorporate it into their routine.
Lion’s Mane has been gaining attention for its potential cognitive and nerve-regenerating benefits. Some studies suggest it may support:
Memory and focus – Research indicates it might help with cognitive function, particularly in aging brains.
Nerve growth – It contains compounds that may stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), which could aid brain repair and regeneration.
Mood and anxiety – Some users report feeling calmer or more balanced when taking it regularly.
For someone like me, who has been on a journey of brain recovery, anything that might support neuroplasticity and healing is worth a closer look.
Lion’s Mane comes in several forms, and choosing the right one depends on your preference and lifestyle:
Capsules or Tablets – A convenient way to get a controlled dose.
Powder – Can be mixed into smoothies, coffee, or tea.
Extracts/Tinctures – Liquid extracts (alcohol or water-based) may be more bioavailable.
Fresh or Dried Mushrooms – If you enjoy cooking, you can sauté them like regular mushrooms.
Personally, I find that tinctures and powders work best for me because they absorb quickly and can be easily added to my routine.
With the growing popularity of Lion’s Mane, there’s also a lot of low-quality or fake products on the market. Here’s what to watch out for:
Look for “fruiting body” vs. “mycelium on grain.” The fruiting body is the actual mushroom, where most beneficial compounds are found. Mycelium-based products often contain fillers with less active ingredients.
Check extraction methods. Dual extraction (alcohol and water) is best for pulling out all beneficial compounds.
Avoid unnecessary additives. High-quality supplements shouldn’t have fillers, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
Verify third-party testing. Reputable brands test for potency and contaminants like heavy metals.
While Lion’s Mane isn’t a magic cure, it’s one of the tools I’ve found helpful on my path to recovery and brain health. If you’re curious, do your research, check for quality, and maybe try a small amount to see how your body responds.
Again, I’m not a nutritionist—just someone who values brain health and is always looking for ways to feel and function better.
Have you tried Lion’s Mane? I’d love to hear about your experience!