Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is an incredibly potent medicinal mushroom, and sits at the top of the pile with the other heavy hitters like the clinker polypore, the spirit plant , Cordyceps sinensis and yun zhi.
Exploding in popularity recently due to it's powerful 'nootropic' brain-enhancing and cognitive-boosting properties, Hericium erinaceus is now potentially the most widely-known natural nootropic available.
Having been used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for thousands of years, its profile has received a massive boost lately as more clinical studies uncover its benefits, and a wide-range of high-level athletes (e.g. Ben Greenfield), 'biohackers' (e.g. Dave Asprey), CEO's (e.g. Tom Bilyeu) and celebrities (e.g. Joe Rogan) adopt it to help improve their performance and productivity.
As the demand for medicinal mushrooms have increased, so has the number of companies that now sell it - leading to a flood of products that are poor-quality with low-potency and questionable sourcing.
What Is Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium Erinaceus)?
Lion's Mane, also known as hou tou gu or yamabushitake, is a fascinating and powerful medicinal mushroom found growing wild on decaying timber throughout Asia, Europe and North America.
While now being popular for focus and concentration, the effects of Lion's Mane are wide-ranging with the indicated benefits including:
- Supports a robust immune system
- Helps regenerate the brain and nerve growth
- Improves cognitive function and nervous system support
- Aid's with blood cholesterol regulation
- Helps alleviate stress, depression and anxiety
- Reduces inflammation
- Assists with gastrointestinal problems
Its also one of the most interesting mushrooms to look at, with its unique appearance lending itself to many different names and comparisons. Named in modern times due to its unique resemblance to a Lion's Mane, it's traditional Latin name translates to 'hedgehog mushroom' with many also touting its close resemblance to ocean coral.
Lion's Mane mushroom has been used in Traditional Chinese & Japanese Medicine for thousands of years, primarily for boosting and improving the brain and nervous system function as well as supporting good digestion and treating gastric ulcers.
In the last few years, it has seen another increase in popularity due to its potent 'nootropic' properties - namely, its ability to increase focus and concentration.
Beyond a noticeable cognitive boost though, Lion's Mane is also famous for a number of other health benefits with the most notable and highly researched being immune system support, nervous system support and mood regulation.
To top it all off - Lion's Mane is also considered a 'gourmet edible' and highly sought after culinary item! If you can source yourself a whole fruiting body, they are described as having a firm and chewy texture with a taste reminiscent of seafood.
Is It Better To Take Lion's Mane Mushroom Powder, Capsules Or Liquid Extracts?
As you can expect from a product so popular, there are a lot of different choices as to how you can take it. But which is best? Well, it's actually just personal preference! The most important thing to look for when buying any medicinal mushrooms is high-quality products with no 'fillers', once you've found a great product that you can trust then it's up to you to decide what best works for you.
Whether you want something quick and easy, 100% pure or to save a couple dollars, each different product comes with it's own pros and cons.
All of these statistics are based on our favourite Lion's Mane Mushroom products, which you can read about in more detail below.
Powder
Pros
- Can be stirred into a hot drink, mixed into your protein shakes, or even into your favourite bolognaise recipe. Have fun experimenting with different drinks and food to see what works for you.
- 100% pure mushroom extract
Cons
- Not as quick and easy as other types of product
Capsules
Pros
- Easier to take than powder as it doesn't need to be mixed into anything
Cons
- On average, work out slightly more expensive per portion (although we are literally talking a couple cents per capsule!)
- Not 100% pure mushroom extract, contains brown rice and Pullulan (an extra-cellular polysaccharide)
Liquid Extracts
Pros
- As with capsules, it's easier to take than powder as it doesn't need to be mixed into anything (although Life Cykel do recommend mixing their extract into a drink for best results)
- On average works out the cheapest of all the options (again though, only a few cents per portion)
Cons
- Not 100% pure mushroom extract, 30% organic alcohol
Who Are The Best Producers Of Lion's Mane Mushroom?
As the popularity of Lion's Mane has exploded, so has the number of suppliers and producers. As with all medicinal mushrooms though, for every high-quality extract on the market, there are 10 you shouldn't touch with a 10-foot pole!
It's important to be well informed when purchasing Lion's Mane as many extracts are not only low-potency and packed with 'filler', but also grown and harvested in an unethical manner from potentially contaminated areas.
Below I'll run through my favourite suppliers for Lion's Mane mushroom, available no matter where you are in the world.
All of these extracts are independently tested for potency and contamination and all companies are completely transparent with their growing, sourcing and harvesting processes.
These are the ones I confidently cycle between as they all offer subtle differences - check them out below:
| Click Here To Check The Latest Prices With SuperFeast | Click Here To Check The Latest Prices With Life Cykel | Click Here To Check The Latest Prices With Teelixir | Click Here To Check The Latest Prices With Host Defense (on Amazon) |
1.) SuperFeast:
Key Features & Benefits:
- Enhanced Brain Function: Aids in improving concentration, learning, memory, and overall mental agility.
- Authentic Source: Grown in the shade on mature oak tree chips and sun-dried for optimal potency.
- Full-Spectrum Extraction: Traditional extraction methods ensure a comprehensive range of medicinal compounds.
What Sets It Apart:
SuperFeast Lion's Mane Extract is sourced Dì Dào from China's renowned Zhejiang and Heilongjiang regions, aiming for authenticity TCM practice and top potency. The product is designed to enhance brain cell communication, offering potential improvements in concentration and memory.
With a commitment to holistic health, SuperFeast focuses on the medicinal value of the entire herb, avoiding synthetic isolations or manipulations. Rigorous and transparent testing in both China and Australia guarantees the product's quality and safety.
What I Think About It:
I've personally used and worked with SuperFeast for a number of years now and their dedication to customer service, product quality, and business ethics is very impressive. They are undoubtedly one of Australia's best producers - if you want to know more about this particular extract, read our full review of SuperFeast Lion's Mane Mushroom.
- Customer Service - with some of the best customer service I've experienced from any online retailer, SuperFeast has become quite well-known for having a brilliant buyer experience. Postage is quick, the team is super-friendly and every order comes with a personal hand-written note!
- Sourcing Standards - SuperFeast goes to extremes to uphold the Di Tao philosophy, meaning all products are sourced wild or wild-crafted in their home regions. In alignment with their 'Earth First' policy, SuperFeast's Lion's Mane is 'semi-wild' and cultivated on oak wood chips in its natural environment to reduce the rapid depletion of it in the wild!
- Complete Transparency - As a 100% family-owned business, SuperFeast put it all on the table. From internal and independent pesticide, heavy metal & microbiological testing through to regular audits and supplier visits, they are always working to operate to the highest standard. You can view all these practices in detail here.
- Uniquely Processed for Super High-Potency -SuperFeast's Lion's Mane powder is extracted in a 10:1 ratio, meaning that 10kg of mushroom is processed down to 1kg of powder. Processing is done in a 3 stage high-pressure single water extraction with respect to the individual temperature and extraction time limits of the herb. All of this results in maximum potency and bioavailability.
- Shipping? - Worldwide
If you'd like to see the 'why and how' behind SuperFeast's Lion's Mane Mushroom sourcing - hit play below!
2.) Life Cykel:
Key Features & Benefits:
- Optimal Mental State: Ideal for tasks demanding deep concentration or creativity.
- High Bioavailability: Premium broad-spectrum, double-liquid extract ensures optimal absorption.
- Enriched with Native Fruits: Infused with the nutrient-rich Kakadu Plum, a powerhouse of natural vitamin C.
What Sets It Apart:
Life Cykel's Lion's Mane extract is their top-selling product and is much loved by their customer base. Crafted using a unique dual extraction technique, it targets the full spectrum of the mushrooms benefits - however, it should be noted that Life Cykel opts to use Hericium coralloides which is a different species to the classic Lion's Mane that most producers use. a wide range of beneficial compounds.
The liquid infusion is super easy to take and also includes extracts of Australian Kakadu Plum which provides a slight boost of natural nutrients and a great flavour. Some users have reported improvements in 'brain fog' and overall cognitive function after just two weeks of use.
What I Think About It:
Founded in 2015, Life Cykel has fast become renowned as 'mushroom innovators' that create super high-quality extracts and unique eco-products. With locations in both Australia and the United States, they are a fascinating company with very high standards, great products, and excellent principles.
- Circular Economics - One of the driving principles of Life Cykel is to work within a 'circular economy' - meaning they look to recycle resources & reduce wastage as much as possible. Life Cykel recovers massive amounts of discarded coffee grounds as the substrate for many of their mushrooms, preventing it from going to landfill.
- Available As A Liquid Extract - Life Cykel is one of very few companies producing a Lion's Mane liquid extracts. It's Non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free & considerably potent - made via a double extraction method (water & alcohol) in a 1:2 ratio (1kg mushroom gives 2L of extract). Many people find this easier to take than a powder extract as you can simply drop it under your tongue and get on with your day without having to stir it into something.
- Australian-Grown Lions Mane - Life Cykel is again, one of very few companies to produce their extracts from organic Lion's Mane grown here in Australia. Where SuperFeast chooses to source according to Traditional Chinese Medicine Di Tao principles, Life Cykel prefers to go with Australian-grown & made. Both are valid in my eyes and as for which one you prefer - that's up to you!
- Extensively Tested - Life Cykel has extensively tested their Lion's Mane extract with full results available for mycotoxins, pesticide & heavy metals. Transparent testing is an important factor when considering any medicinal mushroom products.
- Shipping? - Worldwide
3.) Teelixir:
Key Features & Benefits:
- Brain-Boosting Properties: Dual extraction captures cognitive-enhancing compounds.
- Pure and Organic: Wild cultivated in China's Heilongjiang province, ensuring purity and potency.
- Eco-Conscious Packaging: 100% recyclable and plastic-free, emphasizing a commitment to the environment.
What Sets It Apart:
Teelixir's Lion's Mane Mushroom extract is sourced Di Tao from the mountains of China and undergoes a meticulous dual extraction process, capturing both water-soluble beta-D-glucans and alcohol-soluble diterpenoids. This ensures users receive the full spectrum of benefits, from immune support to enhanced cognitive function.
The brand's commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly packaging, and the consistent high-grade product has garnered loyal users who vouch for its positive effects on cognition and mood.
What I Think About It:
With the driving mission of sourcing, developing and providing a complete range of medicinal mushrooms and tonic elixirs to address health from the ground up, Teelixir has fast become one of Australia's most respected and well-reviewed Australian producers.
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'Teelixir Gold Standard' for heavy metals - This is the internal benchmark regarding heavy metals that all of their products must meet to be included in the Teelixir range. For products and ingredients to meet that standard they must undergo strict 3rd party testing.
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Complete Transparency - On top of their internal 'Gold Standard', Teelixir is also incredibly diligent regarding the sourcing standards and production processes for all of their products. They are completely transparent with all methods with their procedures easily found on their website here.
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Di Tao Sourcing - All Teelixir mushrooms and herbs are sourced according to the Traditional Chinese Medicine 'Di Tao' principles. This refers to harvesting them from their natural growing regions and environments for maximum potency and effectiveness.
4.) Host Defense:
Key Features & Benefits:
- Enhanced Mental Performance: Designed to sharpen mental clarity, memory retention, and focus.
- Certified Excellence: Organic, non-GMO, vegan, and free from gluten.
- USA Grown: Ensures the highest quality and potency.
What Sets It Apart:
Founded by the renowned mycologist Paul Stamets, Host Defense has over 40 years of expertise in mycology and mushroom research.
Host Defense's Lion's Mane Capsules are widely loved and highly reviewed. Grown and developed in the USA, these tried and tested mushroom supplements are a testament to quality and efficacy. The brand's commitment to scientific validation ensures that each supplement is of the highest standard.
What I Think About It:
Host Defense is one of the most reputable and experienced medicinal mushroom producers in the world.
- Capsules - Host Defense Lion's Mane comes as vegetarian-friendly capsules, making it easy to take without needing to stir it into food or drink like you do an extract powder.
- Mycelium & Fruiting Bodies - Many suppliers tend to only use the 'fruiting body' of the mushroom in their extracts, whereas Host Defense chooses to use both the fruiting body and mycelium. Research from Paul Stamets suggests that the mycelium is essentially the 'immune system of the mushroom' and contains many of the beneficial compounds. This is a point of contention in the medicinal mushroom world with scientists and fungi-experts weighing in on both sides of the debate.
- Leading The Way - Paul Stamets is widely recognised as one of the global pioneers of the medicinal mushroom movement and a key researcher in understanding how they work. With over 40 years experience, a host of published books and numerous industry awards, he's what you'd call a true 'mushroom celebrity' - having been featured on the TED stage, Joe Rogan podcast and appointed as a character in the Star Trek: Discovery series!
- All 'In-House' - All Host Defense mushrooms are certified organic and sustainably grown on their own farm in Washington State, USA. This is done to maintain a consistent organic standard free from all contaminants.
- Shipping? - Worldwide
This should give you all the options you need to find the right Lion's Mane extract for you. All of these extracts show some subtle differences but are all potent, ethical, safe and of excellent quality.
| Click Here To Check The Latest Prices With SuperFeast | Click Here To Check The Latest Prices With Life Cykel | Click Here To Check The Latest Prices With Teelixir | Click Here To Check The Latest Prices With Host Defense (on Amazon) |
5. Real Mushrooms Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom Capsules
Key Features & Benefits:
- Capsules: Easy and quick to take at any time
- Certified Purity: Organic, gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan.
- Guaranteed Potency: Contains a high concentration of Beta-glucans.
What Sets It Apart:
Real Mushrooms' Lion's Mane capsules are a premium product, hot water extracted from 100% Lion's Mane mushrooms, and thoroughly tested to ensure you get all the beneficial compounds.
The product is gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan and with a guaranteed potency of over 30% Beta-glucans. Unlike many alternatives, this extract contains no grains, starch, or fillers. A number of users have reported improvements in cognitive functions, tremors, and overall well-being, making it a favourite for both humans and even pets.
6. Double Wood Supplements Lion's Mane Mushroom
Key Features & Benefits:
- Comprehensive Formula: Includes every part of the mushroom for all-encompassing benefits.
- USA Origin: Cultivated and produced in the USA for top-tier quality and consistency.
- Trustworthy Manufacturing: Produced in facilities adhering to strict cGMP guidelines.
What Sets It Apart:
Double Wood's Lion's Mane Mushroom supplement is a great option due to its commitment to quality and consistency. Grown and manufactured in the USA, these capsules include all parts of the mushroom, ensuring that all active ingredients are retained.
The inclusion of 'the whole mushroom' is a fact that divides the Lion's Mane-loving community - some like only the fruiting body, some like only the mycelium and some like a mix of both - this will be up to you!
The brand prides itself on sourcing only the highest quality raw materials and maintaining consistency from batch to batch. Users have reported improvements in cognitive abilities, reduced brain fog, and enhanced focus, making it a go-to choice for many seeking the benefits of Lion's Mane.
How We Selected The Lion's Mane Supplement Brands
The rise in Lion's Mane supplements has been undeniable, leading to an array of choices for consumers. With so many new brands popping up in the market, determining the top contenders required rigorous research and a keen understanding of what users truly need. Here's how we chose our recommended brands:
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Quality of Ingredients: We gave priority to supplements that boasted pure, authentic ingredients. Organic, non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free attributes were particularly appealing. The absence of unnecessary fillers was also a significant factor.
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Extraction Techniques: The efficacy of a supplement often hinges on its extraction process. We leaned towards products that employed traditional or dual extraction, ensuring a rich array of beneficial compounds.
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Potency and Bioavailability: A high concentration of beneficial compounds, especially Beta-glucans, was essential. Furthermore, how well our body can absorb these compounds—known as bioavailability—was a crucial consideration.
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User Feedback: Authentic user reviews provided invaluable insights. We paid close attention to testimonials highlighting improvements in cognitive functions and overall well-being.
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Sustainability Considerations: In an era where sustainability is paramount, we appreciated brands that emphasized eco-friendly practices, especially in packaging.
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Manufacturing Excellence: Brands that adhered to stringent manufacturing standards, ensuring consistency and safety, were high on our list.
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Third-Party Verifications: We held in high regard brands that underwent rigorous third-party testing. This external validation ensures that the product's quality matches its claims.
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Expertise in Mycology: A deep-rooted understanding of fungi and their myriad benefits can significantly influence product quality. We favoured brands backed by substantial expertise in the realm of mycology.
A lot of brands really don't meet the mark when it comes to medicinal mushrooms, and while the products in this list may differ in certain ways and take different approaches - these are the ones that tick the boxes for us.
Why Take Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplements?
Lion's Mane mushrooms can pack a punch when it comes to cognitive benefits. Many studies are revealing that they can be a game-changer for overall brain health. They have been used for thousands of years in ancient medicine to help enhance mental clarity, boost memory, and improve focus.
The unique compounds found in these mushrooms have been indicated to help support the growth and function of nerve cells, underscoring the benefits of Lions Mane in the fight against cognitive decline. There's also a mood-lifting side to Lion's Mane, hinting at its potential as a natural mood enhancer.
Beyond brain boosts, these supplements fortify the immune system, offering a rounded approach to well-being. In today's fast-paced world, a sharper, resilient mind is invaluable and Lion's Mane might just be a great go-to supplement to get that mental lift.
Side Effects of Lion's Mane Mushroom
Lion's Mane mushroom, while celebrated for its cognitive and health benefits, might not be for everyone. Like all supplements, it's essential to be aware of potential side effects:
- Allergic Reactions: Some individuals might experience skin rashes or respiratory discomfort after consuming Lion's Mane.
- Stomach Upset: Digestive issues, including gas, bloating, or diarrhea, have been reported by a few users.
- Dizziness: A handful of people have noted feeling lightheaded after taking the supplement.
- Anxiety: Some users have reported experiencing increased symptoms of anxiety after consuming Lion's Mane. It's best to monitor any changes in mood or mental health while taking the supplement and start slow with the dosage.
- Drug Interactions: If you're on medication, especially anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before adding Lion's Mane to your regimen.
These side effects are very rare, however, you should always chat with your doctor or qualified health practitioner before starting any new supplements.
What To Look For in Lion's Mane Supplements
We, at Bircher Bar, understand that choosing the best Lion's Mane supplement offers its own set of challenges. It's not always easy to spot the best from the bunch. Let's break it down to help you pick the right one.
Purity and Potency: The supplement should be free from harmful additives and check for any fillers or additives. The simpler the ingredient list, the better.
Contaminants Check: Ensure the supplement has been tested for heavy metals and other contaminants. Opt for brands that provide third-party lab results confirming the absence of harmful metal residues.
Brand Reputation: Choose a supplement from a reputable brand that values transparency and quality.
Dosage: Ensure the supplement provides a clear recommended dosage. This helps in gauging its potency.
Price: While price shouldn't be the only factor, it's important to ensure you're getting good value for your money.
Remember, the right supplement can offer a world of benefits, but it's also important to choose wisely.
Types of Lion's Mane Supplements
There are many different ways to take lion's mane mushroom extract and as long as you are choosing a good producer, the way you take it typically comes down to personal preference.
- Lion's Mane Mushroom Powder Supplements: This form is pretty versatile and can be mixed into drinks or foods.
- Lion's Mane Mushroom Capsules: Lion's mane capsules are definitely one of the most convenient options as all you need to take them is a glass of water.
- Lion's Mane Mushroom Gummies: This is the easiest and often tastiest way to take any supplement, however, you are going to be taking in a bit of sugar as well.
- Lion's Mane Tinctures: These liquid extracts can be dropped under the tongue or added to food and beverages. They often provide a rapid absorption rate and are again, very easy to use.
Recommended Dosage for Lion's Mane Supplements
While there isn't a universally standardized dosage, some factors, such as age and overall health, can influence the ideal amount for an individual.
For cognitive enhancement, some experts suggest a daily intake of 3 to 5 grams. In a study conducted in 2020, individuals aged 50 and above with mild symptoms of Alzheimer's disease displayed significant cognitive improvement after consuming three 350-mg Lion's Mane capsules daily for 49 weeks. Another study in 2019 found that taking three 400-mg capsules daily for 8 weeks helped alleviate depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders in participants who were overweight or had obesity.
Again though, there is no standardised dose - you should start out with the manufacturer's recommendation for the brand you ultimately choose.
FAQ:
Are Lion's Mane Mushrooms Psychedelic?
No, Lion's Mane Mushroom is not psychedelic and cannot get you 'high'. It does not contain any psychoactive properties or compounds (e.g. psilocybin)
Are Lion's Mane Mushrooms Edible?
Yes, Lion's mane mushrooms definitely are edible and can be eaten raw, cooked, dried or steeped as a tea. The flavour is most commonly described as 'seafood like'.
What Are The Side Effects of Lion's Mane Mushroom?
There are no known or recorded side effects of Lion's Mane Mushroom for humans. Even high-dose animal studies have shown no negative side effects.
What's Lion's Mane Mushroom Good For?
As we mentioned above, the health benefits of Lion's Mane Mushroom are wide-ranging and it truly is a powerhouse of a medicinal mushroom. To briefly summarise again, research indicates Lion's Mane may help with:
- Packed with anti-inflammatory & antioxidant properties
- Can help repair damaged nerves
- Helps relieve anxiety and depression symptoms
- Boosts brain function and cognitive ability
- May help protect against dementia
- Helps strengthen the immune system
- Has been shown to lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, ulcers and diabetes in animals such as dogs.
Does Lion's Mane interact with medications?
Lion's Mane may affect blood clotting and lower blood sugar levels. Those on diabetes or blood clotting medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.
When to take Lion's Mane?
For those looking to harness the cognitive benefits of Lion's Mane, it's advisable to consume it during the earlier parts of the day, in the morning or early afternoon. This is because of its potential invigorating effects which might disrupt sleep if taken too late.
Can I take Lion's Mane every day?
Yes, many people take Lion's Mane daily, especially for its potential cognitive benefits. However, remember to always stick with the recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional if you're considering long-term daily use.
That's A Wrap:
I hope you've gained some good recommendations from this article and feel more confident in deciding which Lion's Mane supplier is for you. Ultimately, I'd recommend trying a few over time and seeing if you can notice any subtle differences!
There is no way we'd be using and promoting any of these companies unless we'd tried, tested and loved their products - Go and get that focus!
(As always - Alternative treatments and supplements may have interactions with prescription medicines, so if you are suffering from any condition and are considering Lion's Mane to assist it - please check with your doctor and get professional medical advice. )
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