Lion's Mane for Cognition
Lion's Mane mushroom (500-3000mg/day) stimulates NGF production and has shown cognitive improvements in mild cognitive impairment trials. Active compounds: hericenones and erinacines.
Dosage & Timing
Evidence Strength
3/5 — ModerateModerate evidence. Mori et al. (2009) RCT in mild cognitive impairment showed significant improvement. NGF stimulation well-demonstrated in vitro and animal models. More large-scale human trials needed.
Overview
Supplement with Lion's Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) at 500-3000mg daily. Lion's Mane contains hericenones and erinacines — compounds that stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis. Clinical trials show improvements in mild cognitive impairment, and preclinical evidence demonstrates neurogenesis and myelination support.
How To Do It
Choose quality extract
Look for dual-extracted (water + alcohol) fruiting body extracts standardized to beta-glucans and hericenones. Avoid mycelium-on-grain products.
Start at 500mg
Begin with 500mg daily for 1 week, then increase to 1000-3000mg based on tolerance.
Take in the morning
Take with breakfast. Some people report mild stimulation, so morning dosing is preferred.
Assess after 8 weeks
Cognitive benefits may take 4-8 weeks to manifest. Track focus, memory, and verbal fluency.
The Evidence
Each claim is linked to its source study. Confidence reflects the study design — systematic reviews and RCTs rank highest.
Improving effects of Hericium erinaceus on mild cognitive impairment↗
Lion's mane supplementation improved cognitive scores in adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Primary Literature
Who Popularized This
Interactions & Warnings
Contraindications
- ⚠Mushroom allergies
- ⚠Bleeding disorders (may have mild antiplatelet effects)
- ⚠Upcoming surgery (discontinue 2 weeks prior)
Interactions
- •May potentiate anticoagulant medications
- •Can be combined with other nootropics (alpha-GPC, creatine)
Measurable Outcomes
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