All about Lion’s Mane

Sometimes nature’s power comes in an unexpected form. Such as a mushroom that looks like a lion’s mane. We’re talking about Lion’s Mane, also known as the bearded tooth mushroom or Hericium erinaceus. This remarkable mushroom has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. And in recent years, its popularity as a supplement has also been growing in the Netherlands. In this blog, you’ll read everything about how Lion’s Mane works, and what to look out for if you want to buy a Lion’s Mane supplement. 

What is Lion’s Mane and where does it come from? 

Lion’s Mane is an edible mushroom that mainly grows on deciduous trees such as beech and oak in North America, Europe and Asia. It’s instantly recognisable by its long, hanging spines that resemble a lion’s mane – hence the name. 

This mushroom not only has a striking appearance, but also a unique flavour – a bit like lobster or prawns. In the kitchen, it’s therefore sometimes used as a plant-based alternative to seafood. 

But it’s the traditional use that makes Lion’s Mane truly special. In various Asian cultures, this parasitic fungus – meaning it lives on other organisms, such as trees – has been used for centuries as a natural remedy.

How do you use Lion’s Mane? 

How you use Lion’s Mane really does make a difference. It’s not just about what you take, but also how. Here we explain what’s helpful.

How to get started 

• How much should you take? Start with a low dose, for example 500 mg per day. You can gradually build this up to around 1,000 to 3,000 mg per day depending on your needs.
• When should you take it? Many people take Lion’s Mane in the morning or early afternoon.
• Spread it throughout the day: for example 2 or 3 times, so the effect is more evenly distributed.
• Take it with food – this is gentler on your stomach.

Please note: everyone is different. Start low and increase slowly. 

Is Lion’s Mane safe? 

In general, Lion’s Mane is well tolerated. There are, however, a few points to keep in mind: 

• Stomach upset: in rare cases, at higher doses or on an empty stomach
• Allergies: people with a mushroom allergy may be sensitive
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding: always consult your treating doctor if you want to use a new supplement
• Use of medication: such as blood thinners – always consult your treating doctor if you want to use new supplements alongside your medication. 

Always listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, pause use and discuss it with one of our health coaches or your treating doctor. 

Buying Lion’s Mane? Here’s what to look out for 

Want to add Lion’s Mane to your routine? Then quality is key. When choosing a supplement, look out for the following: 

• Does it clearly state which part of the mushroom has been used? (Fruiting body and/or mycelium)
• Are there any unnecessary additives such as fillers or artificial flavourings? If not: great!
• Is it an organic or sustainably cultivated mushroom?
• Brand transparency: choose a producer that is open about origin and ingredients 

 That way, you can be sure you’re choosing a product that suits you and does what it promises. 

Good to know 

Lion’s Mane is a remarkable natural product with a rich history and plenty of potential. What’s more, Lion’s Mane has been part of traditional healing practices for centuries and is valued and used worldwide – in the kitchen and as a supplement. Please note: this article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice.

Sources 

• PubMed. (2021). Lion’s Mane and NGF stimulation. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33800983/
• Examine.com. (n.d.). Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus).
• Naturecan. (2023). What is Lion’s Mane and what are its potential benefits?
• Daba, A. & Ezeronye, O. (2003). Polysaccharides from Hericium erinaceus and immunomodulation. African Journal of Biotechnology, 2(12), 672–678.