Getting to know: Lion's Mane Mushrooms

The Lion’s Mane mushrooms have some unique potential health benefits, based on some early stages of scientific studies. Keep in mind these benefits still need to be further confirmed.

One unique benefit is the mushroom may improve cognitive functioning, such as memory, concentration, learning and decision-making. A study in Japan discovered that a group of 15 people all aged between 50 to 80 years old saw improvements in their mild cognitive impairment when regularly taking tablets containing the Lion’s Mane. Including the mushroom in a diet may potentially help slow down the effects of diseases affecting the brain and the nervous system as well, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and dementia.

Although research is in the early stages, the mushroom may also be a complementary and alternative way to treat depression and anxiety. This means it may help some of the side effects as well, such as sleep quality. 

The Lion’s Mane may be effective on ulcers and inflammations as well, according to studies on subjects in Shanghai, China, who took the mushroom in tablet form. 

Fun fact: The shaggy mushroom draws many comparisons to animals and other objects. That’s why the Lion’s Mane mushroom is also called a Monkey’s Head and a Pom Pom. Even the Latin words ‘ericium’ and ‘erinaceus’ in the Lion’s Mane’s botanical name, Hericium erinaceus, both translate to ‘hedgehog’. 

Meal options: Try substituting crab with the Lion’s Mane in crab cakes. It has a similar texture when hand-shredded and goes along well with all the ingredients. Check out our recipe here.

The Lion’s Mane also goes as a delicious side dish when cut into half-inch slices and pan-fried in butter and garlic.

Disclaimer: Despite the references provided, the information on this page, specifically the Lion’s Mane’s potential health benefits, are for educational purposes only. 

Disclaimer #2: We do not recommend using the Lion’s Mane mushroom as a pom pom replacement, but no one’s stopping you!