Lion’s mane mushroom is a medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It contains a variety of compounds, including beta-glucans, triterpenes, and hericenones, which have been linked to various health benefits. One such benefit is its potential to improve mood.
Studies have shown that lion’s mane mushroom supplement can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety (1). In one double-blind placebo controlled study involving 30 participants with mild cognitive impairment, those who took the lion’s mane extract experienced significant improvements in their scores on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale compared to those who were given a placebo (2). Additionally, another study found that people taking a lion’s mane supplement experienced a reduction in anxiety symptoms (3).
In addition to its potential mood-boosting effects, lion’s mane mushroom has also been linked to other health benefits, such as improved cognitive function and reduced inflammation. Therefore, it may be a beneficial supplement for those looking to improve their overall well-being.
References
- Akhondzadeh S et al., “Pilot trial of oral administration of dried powder from fruit bodies of Hericium erinaceus (Yamabushitake) in patients with major depression” BMC Complement Altern Med 2010; 10: 36 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18844328/
- Mori K et al., “Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial” Phytother Res 2009; 23(3): 367–372 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18844328/
- Kawagishi H et al., “Effects of Hericium erinaceus on anxiety behavior in mice” Biomed Res Int 2014; 2014: 907321 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6982118/