Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Overview
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) mushroom contains hericenones and erinacines that stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). A 2025 systematic review of 26 studies found improvements in cognitive function (MMSE +1.17 points). Active compounds differ between fruiting body (hericenones) and mycelium (erinacines). Generally well tolerated. Emerging evidence for neuroprotection; most trials are small. Quality varies significantly between fruiting body and mycelium-based products.
Dosage
1000 mg · Morning · Take with food
Key Interactions
14 verified interactions found
Both enhance cholinergic signaling; Lion''s Mane through NGF-mediated neuroprotection
Monitor for excessive cholinergic effects; can be combined under medical supervision
View details →Ashwagandha reduces stress-induced cognitive impairment; Lion's Mane promotes NGF synthesis for neuroprotection. Complementary nootropic mechanisms.
Combine for cognitive and stress resilience support. No timing restrictions.
View details →Lion's Mane promotes nerve growth factor; Alpha-GPC provides choline for acetylcholine synthesis. Together they support both neurogenesis and neurotransmitter production.
Combine for nootropic stack. Alpha-GPC morning, Lion's Mane any time.
View details →Ginkgo supports cerebral microcirculation; Lion's Mane promotes NGF for neurogenesis. Complementary: blood flow delivery + neuronal growth support.
Combine for brain health. No timing constraints.
View details →Lion's Mane stimulates NGF synthesis for neuronal growth; Bacopa enhances synaptic communication via bacoside-mediated serotonin and acetylcholine modulation. Complementary cognitive mechanisms.
Combine for comprehensive cognitive support. Both can be taken with meals.
View details →Scientific Sources
- PubChem CID:15658905 (Hericenone C)
- Benefits, side effects, and uses of Hericium erinaceus as a supplement: a systematic revie... (Front Nutr, 2025)
- pubmed_ncbi_api
- pubmed_ncbi_api
- Neuroprotective herbs incl. Ashwagandha + Lion Mane (2021)
- OTC supplements for memory — nootropic combinations (2023)
- Nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function (2021)
- Hericium + choline nootropic review (2019)
- Hericium erinaceus NGF neuroprotection (2025)
- Lion Mane nerve growth factor (2013)
- Ginkgo + hericium cognitive study (2025)
- Nootropic herbs cognitive enhancers review — LM + Bacopa (2023)
- NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) used for?
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) mushroom contains hericenones and erinacines that stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).
What is the recommended dosage for Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)?
1000 mg. Morning. Take with food.
Does Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) interact with other supplements?
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) has 14 verified interactions. Top: Acetylcarnitine, Ashwagandha (KSM-66).
When is the best time to take Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)?
Morning. Take with food.
Is Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) safe to combine with other supplements?
Always check interactions before combining supplements. Use VitalStack to verify your full stack for free.
Check how Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) fits your full stack
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Check Your Stack →Not medical advice. VitalStack is not a medical device. For personalized health recommendations, consult a healthcare provider.