Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Lion’s mane mushroom is a unique and striking adaptogen with a soft, cascading appearance reminiscent of a lion’s mane. Its subtle, earthy umami flavour carries hints of miso’s savoury depth with a touch of saltiness, making it a versatile and nourishing ingredient.
Revered for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, Lion’s Mane is celebrated for its ability to support cognitive function, memory, and focus. Known as "nature’s brain food," it is rich in bioactive compounds, such as hericenones and erinacines, which have been linked to neuroprotection and the stimulation of nerve growth factor (NGF).
Beyond its brain-boosting potential, Lion’s Mane is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich, and known to support a healthy immune system. Studies have also suggested its role in reducing anxiety and promoting mental clarity, making it an ally for both the body and mind.
Lion’s Mane is an beautiful reminder of the connection between what we consume and how we feel, an adaptogen that not only nurtures the brain but also inspires moments of focus, balance, and calm in our busy lives.
Our mind rituals
Incorporating Lion’s Mane into mindful rituals that centre around the mind is a beautiful ritual. Whether stirred into a comforting warm drink, or enjoyed as a midday snack, it’s the perfect companion for moments of focus and introspection.
Our favourite ritual to enjoy Lion’s Mane is while unwinding or journaling, if you are feeling extra indulgent you could listen to our specially curated playlist for the Mind designed to inspire calm, creativity, and flow.
From the grounding taste to the mindful benefits, Lion’s Mane invites you to pause, savour, and connect with yourself.
Extra reading- scientific studies:
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In a 2009 study in Japan, Mori et al. found that participants who took 250mg of Lion's Mane mushroom three times a day for 4 weeks showed improved cognitive function compared to a control group. This aligns with their 2008 study suggesting that Lion's Mane mushroom may support the secretion of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) protein 2, which is crucial for nerve cell growth and cognitive function.
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In a study by Chen et al. in 2017, they explored a fungal protein called HEP3 from Lions Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) and its impact on gut health.
The research found that HEP3 could help our immune system by reducing inflammation in activated immune cells.
Importantly, HEP3 also supported a healthy gut by influencing the types of bacteria living there, which, in turn, activated immune cells and improved the gut's defenses.
This suggests that HEP3, found in Lions mane mushrooms, could be beneficial for gut health and immune support.
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In a study by Vigna et al. 2019, Lions mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) showed evidence supporting the reduction of anxiety within a placebo group of 77 participants. Click link to view study.
A further study by Nagano et al. 2010, showed the consumption of lions mane mushroom which were infused in cookies in a placebo group with infused cookies, also saw a reduction in anxiety over a period of 4 weeks. Click link to read study.
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A study by Yin et al, 2018, suggests that the lion's mane mushroom, could be beneficial in fighting stomach infections.
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A study by Samberkar et al 2015, looked at two special mushrooms, Hericium erinaceus and Lignosus rhinocerotis, known for helping nerves grow. The goal was to see if these mushrooms could help chick embryo brain, spinal cord, and retinal cells grow more than a substance called BDNF. Both mushroom extracts were successful in making cells grow, showing that they might be useful for brain and nerve health.
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Vigra et al. 2019 study showed the consumption of lion’s mane mushroom in a controlled group over an 8-week period, supported the improvement of sleep among participants.
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A study by Vigra et al, 2019, showed the consumption of Lion’s mane on a placebo group over 8 weeks, reduced individuals’ feelings of depression.
Further, a study by Nagano et al. 2010, showed the consumption of lions mane mushrooms in a placebo group who consumed lions mane infused cookies, also saw a reduction in depression over a period of 4 weeks.
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Asian countries have long used Lions mane mushroom in culinary, due to its rich bioactive compounds.
