Lion's mane

Hericium erinaceus

Also known as: Lion's mane mushroom, Yamabushitake

Botanical / Herbal

Content by: OpenSupplement Editorial Team | Medical review: pending | Last updated: April 13, 2026

Evidence ★★★☆☆3/5

Best for

Cognition

Typical dose500-3000 mg/day (fruiting body extract)

SafetyNo significant concerns

Onset4–8 weeks

Cost$15-30/mo

References3 studies cited

TL;DR

Medicinal mushroom known for stimulating 'Nerve Growth Factor' (NGF)
Moderate evidence for improving cognitive function and reducing anxiety
Moderate evidence for nerve regeneration and gut health
Safe and edible mushroom with a long history in Asian medicine
Cost: ~$15-30/month
Best for: Brain fog, neuropathy, mild cognitive impairment

What it is

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) contains two unique groups of compounds: hericenones and erinacines. These molecules can cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate the production of NGF, which is effectively 'miracle-gro' for your neurons. It helps the brain repair itself and form new connections.

What the research says

Cognitive declineRelevance: Moderate

Evidence

3/5

Onset speed

2/5

Typical dose: 500-3000 mg/day (fruiting body extract)

Lion's Mane is the 'brain-builder.' Evidence. A 2009 study in Japan showed that elderly adults with MCI who took Lion's Mane for 16 weeks scored significantly higher on cognitive tests than the placebo group. Interestingly, their scores dropped back down after they stopped taking it, suggesting it needs to be part of a long-term routine. ^[1]^[2]^[3]

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Lion's mane on Amazon

$15-30/mo (estimated)

See on Amazon →

Safety

Very safe. As an edible mushroom, it has low toxicity. People with mushroom allergies should avoid it. Rare reports of skin itching (likely due to NGF stimulation).

Interactions

None significant.

Dosing

Standard Dose: 500-1,000 mg of a 'dual extract' (alcohol and water) daily. Form: Look for products that specify they are made from 'fruiting bodies' rather than 'mycelium on grain' for maximum potency.

Cost

Moderate. $15-30 per month.

The bottom line

Lion's Mane is a unique neuro-regenerative tool. It's the best choice for anyone looking to physically 'upgrade' their brain's ability to heal and grow.

References

Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, et al. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2009;23(3):367-372.
RCTCognitive declinePubMed →
Lai PL, Naidu M, Sabaratnam V, et al. Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2013;15(6):539-554.
MechanisticCognitive declinePubMed →
Brandalise F, Cesaroni V, Gregori A, et al. Dietary supplementation of Hericium erinaceus increases mossy fiber-CA3 hippocampal neurotransmission and recognition memory in wild-type mice. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017;2017:3864340.
MechanisticCognitive declinePubMed →

Sources for this page include published meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and NIH dietary supplement fact sheets. All claims reflect the evidence as of early 2026.

This is not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.