In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) lion’s mane is used to soothe the delicate mucous membranes of the digestive lining when ‘heat in the stomach’ leads to gastritis, heartburn, reflux, and other digestive problems. It is also prescribed for ‘liver stagnation’ conditions, such as irritability, depression, stress-related disorders, and PMT. Lion’s mane calms the ‘Shen’ spirit, soothes the mind, and helps to regulate energy (also known as ‘Qi’). In TCM, lion’s mane is often paired with reishi and shiitake for gastrointestinal complaints. 

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Because it is so revered for its cognitive benefits and said to have been prized by Buddhist monks, it is also referred to as the ‘Mountain Priest’ mushroom.

This ‘nature’s nutrient for the neurons’ contains two bioactive compounds, the aromatic hericenones (isolated from the fruiting body) and another plant terpenoid, erinacine (isolated from the mycelium). These compounds are small enough to pass through the blood-brain barrier and stimulate NGF. This is a crucial factor that makes lion’s mane a potentially exciting subject for medical research into degenerative neurological conditions such as dementia.

A recent review from 2018 concluded that of even greater interest than whole H. erinaceus extract, is H. erinaceus mycelium enriched with erinacines, which has shown a promising therapeutic role in preclinical studies of degenerative neurological conditions and even depression.

The fruiting body of the mushroom contains important polysaccharides such as beta glucans which have been studied for their immunological activity.

Adults take 1-2 servings 1-3 times a day with or without food.

If you have purchased the powder, serving size is 1-2 servings (1/2 to 1 tsp.) 1-3 times a day.

Add the powder to smoothies, soups, and other recipes . As the mushroom is heat stable without losing potency, you can also try baking with it.

Take early in the day or add to tea or coffee during the afternoon dip for a cognitive boost when energy is flagging.