We could all use an extra boost for our mental clarity and physical well-being. And natural remedies can be a wonderful way to invest in your health and feel your best. A mushroom known as lion’s mane is one popular solution that has been utilized for hundreds of years.
If you’ve been curious about experiencing the beneficial compounds of this adaptogen for yourself, the first thing you need to learn is how to take lion’s mane.
There’s more than one way to take lion’s mane. Read on to learn the most effective, convenient, and safe methods for reaping the benefits of this medicinal mushroom.
What is Lion’s Mane?
Lion’s mane is the colloquial name of a mushroom species officially known as Hericium erinaceus. These powerful fungi can be found growing in different areas around the globe, but they are most heavily associated with Eastern medicine historically. In fact, they are a staple of traditional Chinese medicine.
The unique properties of lion’s mane mushrooms stem from the natural bioactive compounds found in the fungus.[1]
What are the Benefits of Lion’s Mane?
Lion’s mane has enjoyed long-lasting popularity all these years for good reason: research suggests that an edible lion’s mane supplement benefits the brain, the body, and the mind. The mushroom has been reported to produce positive effects for humans in not one, but three key ways.
#1 Cognitive Function
Lion’s mane is quite the catchy nickname, but this edible fungus is sometimes called the “smart mushroom.” This is because the ingredient is believed to support brain health and function.
Researchers have discovered special compounds in these mushrooms that may stimulate the growth of brain cells. Studies completed on animal test subjects have even suggested that lion’s mane could be an effective treatment against degenerative brain disease and memory loss.[2]
#2 Physical Health
Studies have found that lion’s mane may:[3]
- Reduce inflammation
- Promote gut health
- Bolster the immune system
The nutrients in these mushrooms, such as thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin, are known to have antioxidant properties. People who regularly ingest lion’s mane may be able to enjoy improved blood pressure and blood sugar, healthy aging, and benefits to the kidneys and liver.[4]
#3 Stress Reduction
One study reported that Hericium erinaceus could be a potential alternative medicine for aiding in depression treatment.[5]
Yet, another study sought to determine if lion’s mane could be an effective combatant against anxiety. In this instance, women were given cookies containing lion’s mane daily for about a month. Other participants received placebo cookies. The results showed that the people who had ingested lion’s mane tended to report lower levels of irritation and anxiety.[6]
Although the sample size for this research was small, these findings show promising and exciting potential for the future of lion’s mane.
How To Consume Lion’s Mane
There are multiple ways to take lion’s mane. Traditionally, the mushroom is enjoyed:
- As a dried mushroom powder
- Cooked thoroughly
- Soaked to make mushroom extract for tea or soup
- Completely raw
Alternatively, you can take lion’s mane by drinking a relaxing yet invigorating tonic or consuming a quick and easy capsule.
Taking Lion’s Mane as a Tonic
Our feel free tonic is a lab-tested herbal supplement that was formulated with the goal of giving you a mental and physical boost. To get a proper dose of lion’s mane, consume one serving of our kava tonic: which is half a bottle. We recommend drinking no more than one full bottle in a single day.
We’ve packed all the powerful health benefits that lion’s mane has to offer into one convenient beverage that also contains:
- Kava root
- Kola nut
- Rhodiola
These ingredients were selected specifically because they are known to promote stress relief, stimulate mental clarity, and increase energy levels. With a bit of a natural boost, this tonic provides the perfect pick-me-up without subjecting you to a typical caffeine crash afterward.
How to Take Lion’s Mane Safely
Lion’s mane is completely safe for human consumption, but it should not be taken in excess or from unknown sources.
Some people who have ingested this ingredient experience side effects such as rashes and impaired breathing, but these symptoms are likely a result of allergies. If you are allergic to mushroom species, you may experience a reaction to lion’s mane.
It is also important not to consume excessive alcohol in conjunction with these supplements. If you experience any serious health conditions, it may be best to consult with a healthcare professional before ingesting a new substance.
See related: How Long Does Lion's Mane Stay in Your System?
Experience the Benefits of Lion’s Mane with Botanic Tonics
If you love investing in your bodily wellness with remedies straight from Mother Earth, the lion’s mane mushroom could be your new favorite ingredient.
Our tonics make it easy to get a daily dose or occasional pick-me-up from healthy and natural ingredients.
Browse our selection of plant-based kava capsules which are free of gluten, nuts, alcohol, and dairy. Feel your best, hone your focus, and give your brain a boost courtesy of the revered medicinal mushroom lion’s mane.
Sources:
- Forbes. Health Benefits Of Lion’s Mane. https://www.forbes.com/health/body/health-benefits-of-lions-mane/
- Healthline. 9 Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Plus Side Effects). https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lions-mane-mushroom
- MedicalNewsToday. What are the benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323400
- Institute for Natural Medicine. The Amazing Health Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushrooms. https://naturemed.org/the-amazing-health-benefits-of-lions-mane-mushrooms/
- National Library of Medicine. Therapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorder. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6982118/
- J-Stage. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/biomedres/31/4/31_4_231/_article
About The Author
Jamal Bouie is an accomplished professional with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry from Lemoyne-Owen College in Memphis. Currently, he is pursuing his PhD in Biomedicine at Salus University. Jamal has worked in several industries; he began his career in pharmaceutical manufacturing and transitioned to the cannabis industry, where he specialized in analytical testing and manufacturing, playing a vital role in ensuring product safety and compliance. Now, Jamal has turned his attention to the dietary supplement field, combining his scientific acumen with his passion for health and wellness.
