Are you familiar with the increasingly popular mushroom known as Lions Mane? It has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine owing to its mental clarity and zen promoting properties, so it’s no surprise that our love for this ancient mushroom has also mushroomed (no pun intended). 

Google has even noticed a rise in searches for Lions Mane over the last year, as an increasing number of people have been eager to learn more about its benefits! To help answer your burning Lions Mane questions, here are the answers to some of the most googled questions. 

What is Lions Mane?

Commonly known as the bearded tooth fungus and “pom pom” mushroom, Lions Mane is a really unique fungus- both in its shaggy appearance and its functional uses. It’s a cream-white coloured fungus that has long stringy dangling spines (resembling the mane of a lion), native to parts of Asia, Europe and North America, where they commonly grow on decaying hardwood trees. While the fungus is considered a culinary delicacy, it's been classified as a functional mushroom- a food that provides more than simple nutrition. 

What are some of the benefits of Lions Mane?

Lions Mane is rich in bioactive compounds, such as hericenones and erinacines, which are known for their cognitive health benefits. These important compounds are able to cross the blood-brain barrier to help stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), which helps maintain the growth and repair of brain cells. This allows us to process, transmit and learn new information effectively. 

Studies even suggest that they may help boost brain health by protecting against cognitive decline- it’s no wonder that Lions Mane is commonly called the mushroom of the mind or “smart mushroom”!

Aside from the fact that Lions Mane mushrooms are packed in hericenones, erinacines they are also rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and beta-glucans, which collectively work together to promote all-around wellbeing. 

In addition to the adaptogenic benefits, an increasing number of studies suggest that Lions Mane may be able to support the body’s ability to accommodate varying emotional and physical stressors, curb brain fog, improve digestive wellbeing, increase energy and immune function. 

Our Organic Lions Mane Mushroom Supplement provides you with 120 vegan capsules per bottle for a 4 month supply. Our capsules contain 1500mg equivalent of mushroom before extraction, meaning each high strength 12:1 capsule contains 125mg of Organic Lions Mane Extract, with an added 10mg dosage of Organic Black Pepper.

Let’s answer some of your burning questions about Lions Mane 👇

How can I use Lions Mane? 👀

You can eat Lions Mane raw, dried, cooked or even infused in hot water. Unfortunately, Lions Mane isn’t readily available at the supermarket, but an easy way to harness the benefits of this ancient mushroom is by including a Lions Mane supplement in your daily routine. 

When's the best time to take a Lions Mane Supplement?  ⏰

It’s best to take it first thing in the morning to help you prepare for the day ahead! 

Are there any health drawbacks? 🤔

So far, the research shows that Lions Mane mushrooms taken either whole or as an extract in supplement form is safe. But if you have any form of mushroom allergies, then it’s best to avoid consuming it to prevent any allergic reactions.

Lions Mane Mushroom Mocha  ☕

To experience Lion's Mane in a truly delightful way, why not try our recipe for a Lion's Mane Mushroom Mocha? It's the perfect way to start your day with a delicious pick-me-up that combines the potential cognitive benefits of Lion's Mane with the comforting warmth of a classic mocha.

Ingredients:

200ml boiling water

2 tbsp cocoa powder

2 tsp coconut sugar

½ cup of oat milk

½ tsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp instant coffee 

1 capsule Lions Mane Mushroom 

Method: 

1. Bring the water in a kettle to a near boil.

2. Open the Lions Mane capsule and pour the powder into your cup.

3. Add instant coffee and hot water into the cup and stir.

4. Mid oat milk, cocoa powder, coconut sugar and vanilla extract in a pot over medium-low heat until you have a gentle simmer. Stir until completely smooth.

5. Pour into your cup.

6. Top with some frothed milk or cream if desired.

7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Riya Lakhani-Kanji MSc ANutr is a registered nutritionist and health writer with a special interest in plant-based nutrition. She has completed a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Human Nutrition, and has developed a passion for writing about all things plant-based.