Skip to content
Back to Cognitive Decline & Brain Aging

ingestible · for cognitive decline & brain aging

Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Mori 2009 Phytother Res (PMID 18844328) - double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT in 30 adults aged 50-80 with mild cognitive impairment; the Hericium erinaceus group showed significantly higher cognitive function scale scores vs placebo at weeks 8, 12, and 16 (p < 0.05 at all time points). Scores declined after discontinuation. A 2019 RCT by Saitsu (PMID 31413233) in older adults confirmed significant MMSE improvements over 12 weeks.$25-$50/month for a quality standardized extract

How to use

Take 500-1,000 mg of a standardized extract (containing hericenones and erinacines) twice daily. Full fruiting body extracts or dual-extraction (hot water + alcohol) products are preferred over mycelium-on-grain preparations. Allow 8-12 weeks to assess effect.

How it works

Lion's mane contains hericenones (from the fruiting body) and erinacines (from mycelium) that cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis. NGF is essential for the survival, maintenance, and regeneration of neurons - particularly cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain that are among the first affected in Alzheimer's disease. Animal models show reduced amyloid plaque formation.

Where to buy

Host Defense Lion's Mane (Paul Stamets), Real Mushrooms Lion's Mane Extract, Om Mushroom Lion's Mane, Fungi Perfecti - available at health food stores, iHerb, and Amazon. Verify that products list beta-glucan content (>25% indicates quality) and are not simply mycelium on grain.

Typical cost: $25-$50/month for a quality standardized extract

Safety notes

Generally very well tolerated. Rare reports of skin rash or itching - discontinue if allergic reaction occurs. Avoid if allergic to mushrooms. Weak theoretical antiplatelet effect - use caution with anticoagulants. Not approved to treat or prevent dementia. Evidence base remains small; the pivotal Mori 2009 trial had only 30 participants and cognitive gains reversed after stopping supplementation.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Mori 2009 - Phytother Res (PMID 18844328)

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.