Lion’s Mane: The Complete Guide

Lion’s Mane: The Complete Guide

Lion's Mane mushroom, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, is more than just a funky-looking fungus. It’s a powerful functional mushroom known for its cognitive, digestive, and overall health benefits. Used in traditional medicine for centuries, it’s now gaining popularity in the wellness world for its scientifically backed potential to support brain health, boost focus, and enhance immunity.


In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Lion's Mane: its benefits, history, how to take it, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What is Lion's Mane?


This functional mushroom is a white, shaggy fungus that resembles the cascading mane of a lion, hence its name. Found growing on hardwood trees in forests across Asia, Europe, and North America, this mushroom has been part of traditional medicine for centuries.


Lion's Mane is rich in bioactive compounds, particularly hericenones and erinacines, which help stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) (1). This is a protein vital for the growth, repair, and maintenance of brain cells. In simpler terms: Lion's Mane could be like a daily brain workout, minus the mental sweat. 


Lion’s Mane can be eaten fresh in stir-fries, taken as a supplement, or brewed in tea. It's an ancient ally with modern-day benefits.


Learn more about Lion’s Mane and its benefits for brain health. 

The History of Lion’s Mane


Long before brain-boosting apps were a thing, Lion's Mane was used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. Buddhist monks reportedly consumed Lion's Mane tea to improve focus and mental clarity during meditation, valuing its mind-sharpening properties.


For centuries, it was foraged in the wild across Asia and Europe, often featured in traditional tonics, soups, and teas. Today, modern scientific research has validated many of the traditional uses of Lion's Mane, confirming its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and immune-supporting properties (2).

The Benefits of Lion's Mane


Lion's Mane offers a wide range of health benefits that support the mind, body, and beyond. Here’s how this functional mushroom can contribute to your wellbeing:

1. Improved Memory


Lion's Mane is celebrated for its potential to enhance memory and cognitive function. Its active compounds help stimulate the production of NGF, which is a protein vital for repairing and regenerating neurons. Studies suggest that regular consumption may improve memory, especially in older adults or individuals at risk of neurodegenerative conditions (3).

2. Increased Focus


We like to think of DIRTEA Lion's Mane as a morning shower for your brain. By promoting NGF production, it supports mental clarity, focus, and sustained attention - perfect for students, professionals, or anyone looking for that extra increase in productivity. Add it to your coffee, smoothie, or simply mix with hot water to give your mind the fresh start it deserves. We’ll roar for that.

3. Better Digestion


Lion's Mane can promote a healthy gut microbiome and support digestive health. Since gut health is closely linked to immunity and mental wellbeing, Lion's Mane is a great option (4).


The wellness world can’t get enough of gut health. If you’re part of that movement, reach for our DIRTEA Lion's Mane - your gut will thank you.


If you want to learn more about the benefits of Lion's Mane, our guide explores why this mushroom is often called the ‘smart mushroom.’ 

4. Can Help With Weight Loss


While not a magic weight-loss supplement, Lion's Mane may support weight management indirectly (5). This is because it helps regulate blood sugar and improves digestion, which can contribute to better metabolism and appetite control. 


Combined with a balanced diet and active lifestyle, it’s a smart addition to your wellness routine.


5. Immunity Boost


Packed with antioxidants and polysaccharides, Lion's Mane strengthens the immune system by promoting gut health. A balanced gut microbiome is your first line of defense against infections, making Lion's Mane a powerful year-round immune supporter.


3 Ways To Easily Include Lion’s Mane in Your Daily Routine


Including Lion's Mane into your daily routine is simple and versatile, offering various ways to boost your health. Here are some ways you can effortlessly include Lion’s Mane into your lifestyle. 


  1. Add it to your meals: Sauté it like seafood in stir-fries or add it to soups for a flavourful, nutritious boost.

  2. Take supplements: Choose from capsules, gummies, or tinctures for a convenient daily dose.

  3. Mix it into your tea and coffee: Infuse your teas, coffees, shakes and smoothies with Lion's Mane for enhanced cognitive support. 


To get the best out of Lion's Mane, consistency is key. Aim for 500 mg to 3,000 mg daily, depending on the form. Morning is ideal, especially if you’re looking for focus and mental clarity to power through your day. 


Our DIRTEA Coffee Super Blend contains 1,000mg of Lion’s Mane per serving, so you can effortlessly get in some of your daily dose from your morning coffee. Or why not add Lion's Mane to your matcha? Our matcha latte with Lion's Mane recipe is the perfect brain-boosting treat.

DIRTEA Lion's Mane


We partner with top-tier mushroom farmers and use dual-extraction methods to get the most out of every Lion's Mane mushroom. The result? A potent powder that blends easily into your coffee, tea, or smoothie - no clumps, just calm, clean focus.


Ready to experience the benefits? Shop our Lion's Mane in powder form or Lion's Mane gummies.

Lion's Mane Summary


It’s more than just a mushroom - it’s a natural nootropic with powerful benefits for brain health, digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to improve focus, boost memory, or support your gut, incorporating Lion's Mane into your daily routine can make a meaningful difference.

H2: Lion's Mane FAQs

What does Lion's Mane taste like?

Lion's Mane has a mild, slightly earthy flavour with a subtle umami taste, often compared to seafood like crab or lobster when cooked. Its texture is often described as meaty and tender, making it the perfect addition to a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to soups.

Can I take Lion's Mane every day?

Yes, you can safely take Lion's Mane every day. In fact, daily consumption is recommended to experience its full range of benefits. Regular use can help support cognitive function, improve focus, and boost memory over time. Like most functional mushrooms, the effects of Lion's Mane build up with consistent use. 


How long does it take for Lion's Mane to work?

The effects can vary from person to person, but many people start noticing improvements in focus, mental clarity, and cognitive function within 2–4 weeks of regular use.

 

Are there any negative side effects when taking Lion's Mane?

Lion's Mane is usually well-tolerated by most people, but like with anything, it can cause some mild side effects in rare cases. Some people might experience slight digestive discomfort, like bloating or an upset stomach, or even an allergic reaction. If you experience any unusual symptoms, then stop using it and consult with a healthcare provider.


Who should not take Lion's Mane?

If you’re allergic to mushrooms, pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication, consult a healthcare professional before use.

 

What is the best way to consume Lion's Mane?

For convenience and maximum potency, try adding our Lion's Mane powder to your daily coffee, tea, or smoothie. It blends easily into hot or cold drinks, and if you're looking for something a bit different, our Lion's Mane matcha latte recipe. Whether you prefer it in a warm drink or a refreshing smoothie, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Lion's Mane throughout the day.

What happens when you start taking Lion's Mane?

When you start taking Lion's Mane, you may notice improvements in mental clarity, better focus, and an enhanced mood. Its natural compounds work to support brain health, helping you feel more sharp and alert. With regular use, you might also experience increased cognitive function and memory support over time. It's a great addition to your routine for boosting brain power. 


References 


  1. Li, I.-C., Lee, L.-Y., Tzeng, T.-T., Chen, W.-P., Chen, Y.-P., Shiao, Y.-J. and Chen, C.-C., 2018. Neurohealth properties of Hericium erinaceus mycelia enriched with erinacines. Behavioural Neurology, 2018, Article ID 5802634. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5987239/ 

  2. 2. Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K., Azumi, Y. and Tuchida, T., 2008. Erinacine A induces nerve growth factor synthesis in astrocytes. Biomedical Research, 29(6), pp.519–525. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10650066/

  3.  Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation, 2016. Lion's Mane Mushroom. Cognitive Vitality Reports. Available at: https://www.alzdiscovery.org/uploads/cognitive_vitality_media/Lions-Mane-Cognitive-Vitality-For-Researchers.pdf 

  4. Czerwony, K.A., 2024. 5 Lion's Mane Mushroom Benefits. Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/lions-mane-mushrooms-benefits 

  5. Eastlake, D., 2025. Lion's Mane set to shake-up weight-loss world. FoodNavigator, 20 January. Available at: https://www.foodnavigator.com/Article/2025/01/20/lions-mane-linked-to-weight-loss/ 

  6. Rahman, M.A., Abdullah, N. and Aminudin, N., 2014. Inhibitory effect on in vitro LDL oxidation and HMG Co-A reductase activity of the liquid-liquid partitioned fractions of Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Persoon (Lion's Mane mushroom). BioMed Research International, 2014, Article ID 828149. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4052699/ 

  7. Blagodatski, A., Yatsunskaya, M., Mikhailova, V., Tiasto, V., Kagansky, A., and Katanaev, V.L., 2018. Medicinal mushrooms as an attractive new source of natural compounds for future cancer therapy. Oncotarget, 9(49), pp.29259–29274. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6044372/

 

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