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3 Underestimated Benefits of Lion's Mane Mushroom

 

The health benefits of lion's mane

Last updated: June 2026
This guide is regularly reviewed with new insights on lion's mane.

Nature gives us many powerful resources, and lion's mane is certainly one of them. Mushrooms like lion's mane are neither plants nor animals, but their own unique life form that humans have valued for hundreds of years. Lion's mane is a fascinating mushroom that comes in handy when you need to concentrate, study or come up with new ideas. It is also associated in research with the nervous system and mood. This blog is part of our medicinal mushroom series; the overview is in the 5 best medicinal mushrooms.

1. Lion's Mane and Your Focus

Lion's mane for focus and brain power

Lion's mane is a natural nootropic, or 'brain food'. Research, mainly in animals, suggests that lion's mane can support cognitive function, especially memory, thanks to an increased production of NGF (nerve growth factor), a protein that promotes the growth and health of nerve cells. Scientists are also studying the herb in relation to memory and healthy ageing. Many users report feeling more focused, motivated and less restless with a good lion's mane at the right dosage. Do you need to study, work, brainstorm or concentrate? Then lion's mane is worth a try.

2. Lion's Mane and the Nervous System

Lion's mane and the nervous system

Human studies are still scarce, but animal research suggests lion's mane could support the regeneration of nerve cells. In one study, rats with nerve damage that received daily lion's mane extract recovered faster than rats without. Other research looks at the role of lion's mane in myelin, the insulating layer around nerve cells that is important for their proper function. It is a promising field of research, but the findings come mostly from animal models; we therefore present lion's mane as an interesting supporter, not as a treatment.

3. Lion's Mane and Your Mood

Lion's mane and mood

Research suggests lion's mane may support mild mood complaints. In one study, light feelings of low mood and tension decreased in participants who used lion's mane for several weeks, and in a 2015 animal study, mice showed less low-mood behaviour after lion's mane extract. Researchers suspect this relates to its anti-inflammatory properties. More research is needed, but because lion's mane causes few side effects, it is an accessible option for many to try. With persistent low mood or anxiety, it remains important to seek professional help.

Is Lion's Mane Psychedelic?

No, lion's mane has no psychoactive properties and gives no trip or 'high'. You can simply continue your day after taking it: driving, working, studying.

When to Take Lion's Mane?

You can take lion's mane in the morning and during the day. Some people prefer not to take it in the evening, as they then fall asleep a little less easily. Lion's mane comes as capsules and as a liquid extract; follow the dosage on the label.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lion's Mane

What is lion's mane good for?

Lion's mane is a natural nootropic, loved for focus and concentration. It is also associated in research with the nervous system and mood. It is a supplement for support, not a medicine.

Does lion's mane help with studying or work?

Many users report more focus and motivation. It is therefore popular at times when you need to concentrate, such as studying, working or brainstorming.

Does lion's mane get you high?

No. Lion's mane contains no psychoactive compounds and is not psychedelic. You can simply continue your daily activities.

When is the best time to take lion's mane?

Morning or during the day suits best, as some people fall asleep a little less easily in the evening. Otherwise follow the dosage on your product's label.

In what form do I buy lion's mane?

As capsules or as a liquid extract you easily dose into a drink. Browse the range in our medicinal mushrooms category.

Does lion's mane have side effects?

Lion's mane is generally well tolerated with few side effects. Do you take medication, are you pregnant or do you have complaints? Then consult a doctor first.

Why Next Level Smart?

  • Lion's mane as capsules and extract — choose the form that suits you
  • Carefully selected — aimed at good potency and purity
  • Part of a wide mushroom range — easy to combine
  • Active since 2010 as a Dutch smart shop, shipping from the Netherlands

Curious about lion's mane? Browse our medicinal mushrooms and try it in a brainpower smoothie. The full overview is in the 5 best medicinal mushrooms.

Last updated: June 2026 | Next Level Smart

 
Annie Verkade is a writer at Next Level Smartshop with a background in philology. She writes about natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals, sleep support, and plant-based products. Her work also explores altered states of consciousness - both with and without psychedelics - as well as topics like astrology and lunar cycles, translating insights into clear, accessible content. She’s especially interested in how simple rituals and environment can shift how we feel (sometimes more than we expect). Outside of work, she enjoys photography, reading, bouldering, and travelling. Favourite products: Sagrada Madre incense, Mulungu, Sleep Tincture
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