Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
- Effective dose
- 1000–3000 mg
- Evidence
- 2/5· Emerging
Last updated June 1, 2026
What it is
Lion's mane is an edible medicinal mushroom whose fruiting body and mycelium contain compounds called hericenones and erinacines. These are studied for their potential to stimulate nerve growth factor and support brain cell health, the proposed basis for its cognitive claims.
Benefits
Small trials suggest possible cognitive benefit, including improved scores on dementia scales in older adults with mild cognitive impairment using about 3 g/day of dried powder over 16 weeks. Results in healthy adults are inconsistent and may be limited to specific tasks.
When to take it
Typically taken daily with food; cognitive trials dosed it across the day over several weeks to months.
Side effects
Generally well tolerated; mild digestive upset is occasionally reported, and allergic reactions are possible in people sensitive to mushrooms.
Sources
Products containing Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
No products in our database contain this ingredient yet.