Lion's Mane Mushroom Benefits: Enhance Memory, Focus, and Mood Naturally
If you’re exploring ways to support your mental clarity, memory, and long-term brain health, there’s a good chance you’ve come across Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus). This shaggy, snow-white mushroom has been used in East Asian wellness practices for centuries—but modern science is now validating some of the cognitive and emotional benefits that traditional healers long suspected.
In this article, we’ll dive into what human clinical studies have revealed about Lion’s Mane mushroom, how it may support your cognitive function and mood, and why some people are stacking it with niacin (Vitamin B3) for potential synergistic effects.
What is Lion’s Mane Mushroom?
Lion’s Mane mushroom is instantly recognizable in nature by its cascading, icicle-like spines that resemble the mane of a lion. But it’s what’s inside that makes it truly special. This mushroom contains two classes of bioactive compounds—hericenones and erinacines—which are known to stimulate the production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the body.
NGF is a critical protein that helps your brain develop and maintain healthy neurons. Think of it like fertilizer for your nervous system—it supports the growth, survival, and repair of nerve cells, which are essential for clear thinking, learning, and memory. The NGF protein was originally discovered by Rita Levi-Montalcini in the 1950s who was awarded a Nobel Peace prize for her breakthrough discovery in neuroscience.
When taken consistently, Lion’s Mane may provide natural, gentle support for brain function without the harsh effects of stimulants of mainstream solutions.*
How Lion’s Mane Supports Memory and Mental Clarity
Human Clinical Trials on Cognitive Function
One of the most well-known human studies on Lion’s Mane was published in the journal Phytotherapy Research in 2009. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, researchers studied 30 older adults (ages 50–80) diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI)—considered a precursor to Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. [J Intern Med. 2018; Petersen et al.]
Participants were split into two groups: one group took 3 grams of Lion’s Mane powder daily for 16 weeks, while the other received a placebo. By the end of the study, the Lion’s Mane group showed statistically significant improvements in cognitive function compared to placebo. However, when supplementation stopped, cognitive scores began to decline again—suggesting that continuous use may be key to maintaining benefits.*
Ultimately, the study suggested that "continuous intake of foods which promote NGF synthesis may be one of the effective ways to prevent or alleviate Alzheimer's disease." [Phytotherapy Res. 2009; Mori et al.]
Early Research in Healthy Adults
Emerging evidence suggests that Lion’s Mane may not only help older adults but also benefit healthy individuals looking to optimize cognitive performance. A small study published in 2023 evaluated mental processing speed in healthy young adults who took Lion’s Mane supplements over a short period. Results indicated quicker reaction times and enhanced mental clarity compared to placebo. [J Clin Med. 2023; Saitsu et al.]
While larger trials are still needed, these findings suggest that Lion’s Mane may have a role in supporting brain health across the lifespan.*
Lion’s Mane and Neuroplasticity: How It Works
A key reason Lion’s Mane is gaining so much attention is its potential effect on neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to grow, adapt, and form new neural connections like in the image above from Rita Levi-Montalcini (UMass Amherst Library).
Here’s what’s happening under the hood:
- Hericenones and erinacines found in the mushroom’s fruiting body and mycelium stimulate NGF production.*
- NGF then encourages the growth of new neurons and the repair of damaged nerve cells.
- Over time, this may help maintain healthy brain function, enhance learning and memory, and slow age-related cognitive decline.*
Think of it like strengthening the wiring in your brain—creating stronger, faster, and more resilient neural connections.
While much of this mechanism is based on preclinical studies, the human trials mentioned earlier support the real-world cognitive benefits observed in participants.
Lion’s Mane for Mood and Emotional Well-Being
Beyond memory and mental clarity, Lion’s Mane may also have mood-regulating properties. In today’s world, where stress, anxiety, and emotional fatigue are common, natural solutions for emotional balance are in high demand.
If you're interested in Lion's Mane capsules a try, they have 1,000mg of Lion's Mane extract and B3 vitamin per serving. Learn more here!
Human Research on Mood Support
A small human clinical trial published in Biomedical Research in 2010 studied 30 women who reported various health complaints, including feelings of anxiety and depression. Participants consumed Lion’s Mane-infused cookies daily for four weeks. Compared to the placebo group, the Lion’s Mane group reported lower levels of anxiety and irritation at the end of the study. [Biomed Res. 2010; Nagano et al.]
While this study had a small sample size, it’s one of the few human clinical trials that points to a potential mood-supportive effect.
How Lion’s Mane May Influence Mood
Researchers believe that Lion’s Mane may impact mood and emotional regulation through:
- NGF production: Supporting healthy brain function and emotional resilience.
- Reduced inflammation: Chronic inflammation has been linked to mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Lion’s Mane contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may support a balanced mood.
- Gut-brain axis interaction: Some emerging research suggests Lion’s Mane may help support gut health, which is increasingly recognized as a factor in mental health.
While more robust research is needed, the existing data offers a promising look at how this mushroom may gently support mental and emotional well-being.
Lion’s Mane and Cognitive Decline: Can It Protect the Aging Brain?
One of the most exciting areas of Lion’s Mane research is its potential to help protect against cognitive decline.
The MCI trial discussed earlier is the clearest example of this potential, showing improved cognitive scores in older adults taking Lion’s Mane over four months [Phytotherapy Res. 2009; Mori et al.].
Additionally, preclinical research shows that Lion’s Mane may protect neurons from oxidative stress and inflammation—two major contributors to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions. [Antioxidants. 2024; Wong et al.]
While human trials are still limited, the body of evidence points toward Lion’s Mane as a natural, low-risk option for those looking to support long-term brain health and resilience against age-related decline. [J Restor Med. 2014; Friedman et al.]
The Niacin Stack: Enhancing Lion’s Mane’s Effects?
In recent years, wellness enthusiasts and biohackers have popularized the idea of stacking Lion’s Mane with niacin (Vitamin B3). The theory behind this combination is rooted in blood flow and nutrient delivery.
Niacin is known to promote vasodilation, which increases circulation and improves nutrient delivery throughout the body—including the brain. When taken alongside Lion’s Mane, it’s thought that niacin may help carry Lion’s Mane’s bioactive compounds past the blood-brain barrier and improve their effectiveness.*
While there are currently no large-scale clinical trials evaluating this stack, many anecdotal reports suggest that the combination may provide an enhanced feeling of mental clarity, focus, and energy.
At the very least, niacin and Lion’s Mane both support brain health individually, and when taken together, they may work synergistically.* That's why we chose to combine the two in our Lion's Mane Mushroom Extract Capsules
Possible Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Lion’s Mane is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. However, some individuals may experience:
- Mild digestive upset (such as bloating or nausea)
- Skin irritation or allergic reactions (rare)
- Increased nerve sensitivity in high doses (anecdotal reports)
If you’re new to Lion’s Mane, it’s best to start with a low dose and observe how your body responds. And, as always, consult with a qualified healthcare provider—especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication.
The Bottom Line
Lion’s Mane mushroom is one of the most exciting natural tools available for supporting cognitive function, memory, neuroplasticity, and even mood. While more large-scale human studies are needed, early research in both older adults and healthy individuals points to real potential.*
If you’re interested in supporting your brain health naturally, Lion’s Mane is worth learning about—and potentially adding to your routine alongside other healthy lifestyle habits.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Do not delay medical treatment due to something you read on this blog. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any existing health conditions.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Happenstence products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
References
1. Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2009.
2. Saitsu Y, et al. Acute and chronic cognitive effects of Lion's Mane mushroom in healthy adults. J Clin Med. 2023.
3. Nagano M, et al. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. 2010.
4. Wong KH, et al. Neuroprotective effects of Hericium erinaceus against oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in preclinical models. Antioxidants. 2024.
5. Friedman M, et al. Neurological activity of Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus). J Restor Med. 2014.