Lion’s mane mushroom tea comes in various forms. One popular option is powder that can be added directly into hot water for consumption or another beverage.

Edwards-Maschotta suggests seeking out a lion’s mane supplement made from its fruiting body rather than its mycelium for optimal brain health benefits. Supplements made from fruiting bodies contain higher concentrations of hericenones and erinaceans associated with beneficial properties that aid brain health, she states.

Brain health

Modern tea blends often incorporate adaptogens – ingredients which help lower stress-related hormones or support healthy blood pressure and heart rates – into their blends, such as reishi, chaga or maitake mushrooms. But new research indicates two lesser-known herbs may also boost mood and cognitive function: Guayusa and Lion’s Mane may provide significant additional support.

Both Ilex guayusa and Hericium erinaceus have been demonstrated to contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, however little is known about their impact on humans. Researchers conducted tests designed to measure participants’ reaction time, mental processing speed and cognitive control as part of this research project. Participants were randomly assigned either a placebo or extract of Guayusa with Lion’s Mane for ingestion, with identical tests administered both 60 minutes and 120 minutes post-ingestion. Both supplements were found to increase mental clarity, concentration, productivity, stress tolerance tolerance and subjective ratings of happiness; although Guayusa had more of an impactful result at 120 minutes than 60.

Studies conducted on lion’s mane have also demonstrated its effectiveness at helping restore neuron integrity and stimulate nerve growth factor production, thus providing protection from neurodegeneration. [5] However, these are preclinical results; larger-scale clinical trials have yet to take place.

Tea with mushrooms may not be appropriate for everyone; as with any dietary supplement, it should not be taken by those allergic to mushrooms or taking antidepressant or blood thinning drugs. It’s wise to consult a healthcare professional prior to beginning any new dietary or herbal supplements.

Depression

Lion’s mane mushrooms may help boost serotonin and dopamine levels, providing relief from depression symptoms. More human trials must be completed to verify these effects.

Lion’s mane has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce osteoarthritis pain and slow its progression by inhibiting production of inflammatory compounds in cartilage and synovial fluid. Furthermore, its use may prevent cholesterol oxidation and lower triglycerides for prevention of plaque buildup in arteries; in addition, its constituent isoindolones such as hericenone B can prevent blood clot formation while decreasing bleeding risk.

Lion’s mane mushrooms contain neuroprotective compounds called hericenones and erinacines that support brain health, stimulating nerve regeneration, and can even help prevent Alzheimer’s disease by improving memory and reducing oxidative damage to the brain. Furthermore, this mushroom may help alleviate menopausal symptoms like anxiety and mood swings by supporting a healthy nervous system. Supplements made from Lion’s mane are generally well tolerated; however those allergic to mushrooms should avoid taking supplements of any sort while people with diabetes should seek medical advice as it could interact with medications that affect blood sugar control thus increasing risk of hypoglycemia.

Digestive health

Lion’s mane mushroom offers many digestive health benefits, including protecting your stomach lining and keeping gut bacteria happy. Studies have also indicated it can reduce oxidative stress that damages stomach linings, potentially helping with ulcers or ulcers altogether. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties may help address digestive issues like constipation.

Studies have also demonstrated its cancer-fighting properties; Hericium erinaceus can slow or kill cancer cells in test tubes and mice. Furthermore, this herb may help lower blood sugar levels for those living with diabetes as well as enhance cholesterol levels by helping the liver regulate lipid metabolism processes.

if you’re experiencing mild cognitive impairment, lion’s mane mushroom tea or capsules could be the perfect remedy. Packed with compounds that encourage your brain to produce Nerve Growth Factor – helping neurons grow healthy – this could result in improved focus and memory as well as staving off neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Studies have also demonstrated its beneficial properties to combat depression and alleviate anxiety, possibly because it helps calm the nervous system while stimulating new cell growth in areas associated with mood. Unfortunately, most research on this subject has been conducted with animal models; more human trials need to take place first.

Lion’s mane mushrooms are one of the few adaptogenic mushrooms available for consumption as a whole food product, and can be found at supermarkets or local produce stores. You can eat these delicate bites raw or cooked and their delicate flavour resembles seafood in some ways; or steep them into hot water to make an enjoyable tea!

Lion’s mane is available as a supplement in capsule or powder form, making it easy to add it to smoothies, coffee, tea, oatmeal or oatmeal dishes. To test how your body reacts best it’s recommended starting off slowly before gradually increasing your dosage; pregnant or breastfeeding mothers should refrain from taking lion’s mane as this could trigger allergic reactions in those affected.