Lion’s Mane FAQ

 

Does Lion’s Mane Mushroom Get You High?

No, in fact, there shouldn’t be a very noticeable immediate effect at all. At most, you should feel a mild boost to energy and well-being, but nothing that approaches feeling “high.”

How Much Lion’s Mane Powder Should I Take?

One to three grams of lions mane a day.  If taking more than a gram a day, the dose should probably be divided, though this is more to ease digestion than anything else.

What Are The Side Effects Of Lion’s Mane Mushroom?

Lion’s mane tends to have very few side effects, though as noted, allergic reactions can happen in rare cases.

Where Can I Buy Lion’s Mane?

It’s available on the internet and brick and mortar herb stores, and in the future we will be offering a selection of our favorite lion’s mane products here.

How Much Lion’s Mane Is Too Much?

Overdose hasn’t been documented, and is unlikely since the effects are more long-term.

Does Lion’s Mane Mushroom Interact With Medications?

This hasn’t been documented. Lion’s mane could interact with medications that increase neurogenesis or are meant to treat dementia, such as dihexa. There’s also a slight chance that it could interact with medications for depression or anxiety– if you’re taking anything like that, talk to a doctor first, and start at a very low dosage, like 300-500 mg a day, working up over the course of weeks.  

What Does Lion’s Mane Do To The Brain?

It mainly increases mRNA expression of nerve growth factor leading to increased neurogenesis. It’s unclear yet whether this affects some parts of the brain more than others.  

What Does Lion’s Mane Mushroom Look Like?

A white mushroom made up of many strands, almost like a sea anemone. The fruiting body of lion’s mane can grow between 5-40 centimeters in size. Powdered lion’s mane is usually light brown.

Is Lion’s Mane Mushroom Legal?

Yes, it is entirely legal both to sell and consume and to pick in the wild. 

Is Lion’s Mane Safe During Pregnancy?

This has never been studied.  Due to its impact on nerve growth factor, which is already heightened during fetal development, we advise avoiding lion’s mane during pregnancy.

What Is Lion’s Mane Used For?

Staving off dementia, reducing anxiety and depression, immune support, and for a mild energy boost. Note that the immune support usage is not currently supported by research– other mushrooms support immune health, and lion’s mane is sometimes conflated with them.  

How Long Does It Take For Lion’s Mane To Work?

In studies, effects become clear usually after about 4 weeks.  This can depend on dosage and individual response to lion’s mane.

What Does Lion’s Mane Mushroom Taste Like?

When fresh, lion’s mane mushroom tastes seafood-ish, like crab or lobster. Dried lion’s mane tastes earthy, without the lobster flavour.

What Are The Benefits Of Lion’s Mane?

Increased neurogenesis, increased cognitive function, and reduced anxiety and depression. 

Where Does Lion’s Mane Grow?

Lion’s mane grows in forested areas throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. It grows on dead trees, so it’s often found in areas used for logging and in old-growth forests.