Lion’s mane has been used in Eastern, specifically Chinese, medicine for hundreds of years. Packed with health benefiting compounds and chemicals - ‘hericium erinaceus’ (the scientific name) is used as a powerful antioxidant and nervous system repair worker. The large, white, shaggy, long-haired mushroom (which somewhat resembles a lion’s mane) also has a stimulating nerve growth factor (NGF) on the brain. Meaning this medicinal powerhouse plant medicine can be used to support growth and survival of new neurons.
Lion’s mane also supports a healthy, functioning immune system and stimulates digestion. Though it is known to be especially proactive withneuronal health benefits. These benefits are also connected to supporting overall brain health, cognitive functioning, and can help to regulate mood and stress levels.
Though human clinical studies are still largely being trialed and investigated,animal and anecdotal studieshave shown promising results for lion’s mane mushrooms to be used to treat more serious illnesses such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, anxiety, depression and high cholesterol, inflammatory-related issues.
The studies which have been conducted however, have shown it is possible lion’s mane can help aid cognitive impairment.One study in particulardemonstrated the mushroom working against the placebo effect, showing a significant improvement in cognitive tests given to 30 adults suffering from cognitive deficits over a 16 week period.
Whilst chaga is best for immunity health, and reishi the go-to for calming and anxiety relief, lion’s mane is the most popular medicinal mushroom for focus and preventing memory loss.
So, you’re intrigued, perhaps you’ve even sampled and purchased the products available to you, and now you’re wondering ‘how much lion’s mane should I take?’ This article will dive a little deeper into dosages and best practices for consuming the mushroom as a supplement.
How Much Lion's Mane Should I Take Daily?
When considering, ‘how much lion’s mane should I take’, it’s important to know your personal dosage will depend largely on your age, health, size, sensitivity and also - your reasons for wanting to try lion’s mane in the first place. The more severe the issue you are trying to treat, the more lion’s mane you may need for it to make a noticeable difference.
To give you a rough idea, for general improved immunity and cognitive functioning, a typical lion’s mane dosage is roughly 1000mg per day. Much like other supplements, always consumed alongside a good meal. This also helps to eradicate any feelings of potential nausea. Lion’s mane can be taken up to three times per day, though it is not recommended to exceed this limit. Daily dosages of 250mg to 750mg have also been shown to be effective. We recommend mixing one scoop of lion’s mane powdered mix into your tea or coffee, once a day for a two week period. Be aware of how you feel after two weeks, and you can always increase your dosage to one-two scoops per day.
When is the best time to take Lion's Mane mushroom?
Due to the connection between lion’s mane and improved cognitive functioning, it is best to think of your lion’s mane supplement as an energy boost in productivity - similar to the reasons why you might enjoy your morning cup of coffee. It helps you feel energised, more alert and focussed. We suggest mixing your powder or elixir anytime from morning until early afternoon for best results.
We also recommend taking lion’s mane on a consistent basis. Much like using any other herbal supplement, or other medicinal mushroom mix, the health benefiting effects will take a little bit of time to build up in your system. In most cases, medicinal mushrooms will take around two weeks before you may start noticing a difference.
If you’re thinking about, ‘how much lion’s mane should I take’, It’s just as important to consider the length of time you want to commit to taking it for. You could even keep a journal to see how it is making a difference, and become more aware of the subtle changes you might notice.
Which is the best way to take lion's mane powder?
Although lion’s mane is generally well tolerated, with very few side effects noted, it is advised to avoid it if you are pregnant, due to lack of studies in this area. If you suffer from allergies, asthma or you are at least two weeks away from surgery, it may also be best to consult your doctor first, before consuming any lion’s mane products.
In Chinese medicine, the mushrooms can be consumed and enjoyed raw, cooked, dried or soaked in water - usually to be consumed as a tea. We recommend adding one scoop of powderedLion’s Mane Mixinto your favourite mug and mixing with hot water, before adding in your morning tea or coffee. It is also possible to add this mix into a breakfast smoothie or lunchtime soup, if you wanted to create some variation. The same concept can be applied with aLion’s Mane Elixir Stick,which are designed to be a little more ‘on the go’ - great for travelling, or busy mornings.
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FAQs
To give you a rough idea, for general improved immunity and cognitive functioning, a typical lion's mane dosage is roughly 1000mg per day. Much like other supplements, always consumed alongside a good meal. This also helps to eradicate any feelings of potential nausea.
How much Lion's Mane should I take daily? ›
For instance, when taken as an oral supplement, it is recommended to take between 500-1000 mg daily for optimal benefits. However, for those looking to consume Lion's Mane to treat neurological conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, higher doses of up to 3000mg per day may be required for maximum benefit.
Is it better to take lion's mane in the morning or at night? ›
Lion's mane mushroom brain benefits
This is why thebest time to take lion's mane mushroom is traditionally considered to be in the morning to early afternoon - to give the mushrooms a chance to work with brain function throughout the day, while you are awake.
How long do you have to take Lion's Mane to see benefits? ›
The amount of time it takes for Lion's Mane to start working varies from person to person, but most people begin to feel benefits after a few weeks of regular use. However, for the best results, it is advised that you take a regular Lion's Mane supplement for at least 2 to 3 months.
What is the most effective way to take Lion's Mane? ›
Take Lion's Mane Dietary Supplements Capsules
For best results, take lion's mane capsules with a meal. It will help you absorb the nutrients better. A capsule will provide easy dosing. But supplements are not FDA regulated, so you risk getting a product that's not as pure and potent as advertised.
Can you take too much lion's mane? ›
Lion's mane can be taken up to three times per day, though it is not recommended to exceed this limit. Daily dosages of 250mg to 750mg have also been shown to be effective. We recommend mixing one scoop of lion's mane powdered mix into your tea or coffee, once a day for a two week period.
How does lion's mane make you feel? ›
Consuming lion's mane mushrooms will not get you high but they might make you feel slightly different at first; whether that be improvements to your mood, reduced symptoms of mild anxiety or even clearing up any brain fog to help improve concentration.
Who should not take lion's mane? ›
Auto-immune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), pemphigus vulgaris (a skin condition), and others: Lion's mane mushroom might cause the immune system to become more active, and this could increase the symptoms of auto-immune diseases.
Can I take Lion's Mane with coffee? ›
It can also help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to a variety of health problems. In conclusion, Lion's Mane mushrooms and coffee are a perfect combination for anyone looking to boost their brain function, improve their memory, and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee.
Does lion's mane affect sleep? ›
While some people find that Lion's Mane makes them sleepy, this specific mushroom helps boost cognitive function. Reishi is another mushroom that is perfect for relaxation and is better for sleep. However, taking Lion's Mane in the morning is the perfect way to jump-start your brain in the morning.
Both are valuable, depending on your wellness needs and choices. In conclusion, Ashwagandha excels at managing stress and boosting one's well-being. Lion's Mane, meanwhile, is favored for its cognitive boost and brain health support.
Is Lions Mane like Adderall? ›
Infact, according to The Guardian, lion's mane mushroom has been proved to be a great ingredient for improving cognitive performance among older adults. One of the major factors in using lion's mane mushroom compared to adderall is due to its nature of being easily abused.
Does Lion's Mane help with brain fog? ›
Lion's mane is often referred to as “the smart mushroom” because of its ability to improve memory, focus, and clarity. This mushroom's potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties increase blood flow to the brain, leading to improved cognitive performance and a reduction of brain fog.
What is the best brand of lion mane? ›
Top 3 Best Lion's Mane Supplements
- Real Mushrooms Lions Mane Mushroom Cognition Capsules.
- Double Wood Supplements Lions Mane Supplement Mushroom Capsules.
- Horbäach Lions Mane Mushroom Extract.
Universal guidelines haven't been set for lion's mane dosage. Taking up to 1 gram orally every day for up to 16 weeks may be safe and well-tolerated. It's best to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to come up with your ideal dosage.
How long does lion's mane last in your system? ›
Generally, Lion's Mane can stay in your system for up to 24 hours. However, it is important to note that this is an average and that the time can vary depending on the individual.
What is lion's mane 2000mg good for? ›
LIONS MANE BENEFITS - Studies have shown Lion's Mane to be a powerful nootropic, helping with focus, clarity, aiding memory and overall cognitive performance.
How much lion mane for ADHD? ›
As there are few studies on Lion's Mane, there is not much information on how much an individual should take based on their age, health, mental health, goals and more. As a rough guide, some clinical trials have used a dosage of around 3 grams per day in adults when looking at its cognitive effects.
Does lion's mane make you sleepy? ›
Regarding the question of whether Lion's Mane can make you sleepy, the answer is generally no. Lion's Mane does not contain sedatives or depressants that induce sleepiness.
Does Lion's Mane help with anxiety? ›
Lion's mane might reduce anxiety and depression
Early research suggests that lion's mane may improve anxiety and depression symptoms. A small 2019 study found that lion's mane reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in participants who were overweight or obese.
