I Finally Found The Best Lions Mane Supplements (2024)

With all the mushroom extracts, herbs, and fancy powders promising to unlock superhuman brain powers, it’s tough to know what’s legit. But if there’s one shroom that deserves the hype, it’s lion’s mane mushroom.

This functional fungus has been low-key, delivering cognitive benefits for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. Modern research is catching up and revealing the lion’s mane’s potent brain-boosting properties.

But how do you find the real deal with so many lion’s mane products on the market? We’re looking at Hericenones and Erinacine polysaccharides, as these compounds have been shown to stimulate nerve growth factors in the brain.

I’ve researched to uncover the best lion’s mane supplements that pack a punch.

• Best Lion’s Mane Supplement: Nootrum Lion’s Mane
• Best Lion’s Mane Powder: Real Mushrooms Lion’s Mane
• Best Lion’s Mane Gummy: Mushgooms
• Best All-In-One Capsules With Lion’s Mane: Nootrum Capsules
• Best Lion’s Mane Coffee: Four Sigmatic Think Mushroom Coffee
• Best Lion’s Mane Chocolate: Spacegood’s Rainbow Dust
• Best Lion’s Mane Tea: MUDWTR Matcha

Lion’s Mane Brand	Price	Price Per Serving
Nootrum Lion’s Mane	$32.99	$1.10
Real Mushrooms Lion’s Mane	$25.46 – $59.95	$0.34 – $0.50
Mushgooms	$29.00	$0.97
Nootrum Capsules	$49.99 – $174.99	$0.97 – $1.67
Four Sigmatic Think Mushroom Coffee	$16.00 – $72.00	$0.90 – $1.25
Spacegood’s Rainbow Dust	$51.00 – $156	$1.43 – $2.30
MUD WTR Matcha	$40.00	$1.33

Best Lion’s Mane Supplement

Nootrum Lion’s Mane

Pros

• 800mg per serving of organic lion’s mane mushroom extract.
• The extract contains both fruiting body and mycelium.
• Standardized to 40% polysaccharides (400mg) for optimal potency.
• Third-party tested for quality and purity.

Cons

• Only available from the Nootrum store.
• Some prefer liquid/powder extracts over capsules.
• We have limited extra nutrients beyond just the mushroom extract.

Lions Mane Brand	Price
Nootrum Lion’s Mane	$32.99 ($1.10 per serving)

Nootrum’s lion’s mane stands out from the crowd. Their lion’s mane capsules deliver a potent 800 mg dose per serving of organic lion’s mane mushroom extract from the fruiting body and mycelium.

This ensures you are getting the full array of beneficial compounds, such as hericenones and erinacines, that give lion’s mane its brain-boosting and neuroprotective properties.

Nootrum’s formula is impressive because it is standardized to contain 40% polysaccharides (400mg).

Polysaccharides are the key active constituents stimulating nerve growth factor production and neural regeneration.

Many subpar products on the market use lion’s mane mycelium grown on grain, which is significantly lower in these vital polysaccharides.

Nootrum also has its lion’s mane third-party tested for quality and purity like all their supplements.

If you’re looking for a premium lion’s mane extract that works as advertised, this is one of the best options available, thanks to Nootrum’s rigorous standards.

Best Lion’s Mane Powder

Real Mushrooms Lion’s Mane

Pros

• Hot water extracted from 100% whole lion’s mane mushrooms.
• It is certified organic and free of grains/fillers.
• Guaranteed ?30% beta-glucan content.
• Third-party tested and verified.
• It’s made in an NSF-certified facility in the USA.
• Gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan.

Cons

• The powdered form may be less convenient than capsules for some.
• No additional complementary mushroom extracts.
• Premium pricing compared to some brands.

Lions Mane Brand	Price (60 Servings)	Price (150 Servings)
Real Mushrooms Lion’s Mane	$29.95 ($0.50 per serving)	$59.95 ($0.34 per serving)

Their lion’s mane extract is made using a hot water extraction process from 100% certified organic whole lion’s mane mushroom fruiting bodies – no mycelium or grain is ever used. This helps ensure you’re getting the full array of beneficial compounds.

What sets Real Mushrooms apart is their transparency. They guarantee their lion’s mane powder contains at least 30% beta-glucans, the vital active polysaccharides responsible for the mane’s nootropic and immune benefits.

Many subpar products on the market use lion’s mane grown on grain instead, which is high in alpha-glucans.

With third-party lab verification and a product made in an NSF-certified facility, Real Mushrooms offers a truly potent and pure lion’s mane extract powder.

Their extract still contains all the non-water soluble components for maximum nutritional value.

Best Lion’s Mane Gummies

Mushgooms

Pros

• Combines lion’s mane with other functional mushrooms in one gummy.
• Uses concentrated mushroom extracts rather than just powders.
• Vegan-friendly gummy with a tasty raspberry flavor.
• Provides immune support and energy enhancement.
• It is a convenient way to consistently get lion’s mane benefits.

Cons

• It contains sugar, which some may want to avoid.
• It’s more expensive than essential lion’s mane supplements.
• Gummies may not be as potent as capsules/powders.

Lions Mane Brand	Price
Mushgooms	$29.00 ($0.97 per serving)

If you’re looking for a convenient and tasty way to get the brain-boosting benefits of lion’s mane mushroom, MushGooms’ lion’s mane gummies are a great option.

These vegan gummies combine the nootropic power of highly concentrated lion’s mane extract with the delicious flavor of raspberries.

What sets MushGooms apart is their commitment to using potent mushroom extracts rather than just mushroom powders.

This allows them to pack a concentrated dose of beneficial compounds like beta-glucans and erinacines from lion’s mane into their gummies.

Their harmonious mushroom blend also provides immune support and energy enhancement from other functional mushrooms.

For those wanting to experience lion’s mane’s cognitive benefits in an enjoyable gummy form, MushGooms offers a high-quality option without sacrificing extract potency.

Best All-In-One Capsules With Lion’s Mane

Nootrum Capsules

Pros

• It contains a therapeutic dose of lion’s mane extract.
• Blended with 9 other functional mushroom extracts.
• Provides immune support, energy boost, stress relief.
• Includes vitamin D for added brain/health benefits.
• Third-party tested and transparently labeled.
• 20:1 extracts to get the most possible into 2 capsules.
• Money back guarantee.

Cons

• More expensive than basic lion’s mane supplements.
• Some may prefer a single-ingredient lion’s mane product.

Lions Mane Supplement	1 Bottle	2 Bottles	3 Bottles	6 Bottles
Nootrum Mushrooms	$49.99 ($1.67 per serving)	$87.99 ($1.47 per serving)	$104.99 ($1.17 per serving)	$174.00 ($0.97 per serving)

While Nootrum offers an excellent standalone lion’s mane supplement, their comprehensive Nootrum Mushrooms blend is the ultimate way to experience functional mushrooms’ full nootropic and health benefits.

This powerful formula combines the 10 most researched and effective medicinal mushrooms, including a clinically backed dose of lion’s mane. The 20:1 extracts make it the most potent mushroom supplement available.

The lion’s mane extract in Nootrum Mushrooms is standardized for its active compounds, such as hericenones and erinacines, which stimulate nerve growth factor production in the brain.

But it doesn’t stop there – Nootrum’s blend also provides immune-boosting reishi and turkey tail, energy-enhancing cordyceps, stress-reducing reishi, and more.

Additional nutrients like vitamin D create a proper all-in-one brain health and vitality supplement powered by mushrooms.

For those wanting the cognitive benefits of lion’s mane along with complementary mushrooms, this potent 10-mushroom formula is tough to beat.

You can read my Nootrum review for an in-depth breakdown.

Best Lion’s Mane Coffee

Four Sigmatic Think Mushroom Coffee

Pros

• Combines lion’s mane with Colombian coffee for focus and energy.
• 250mg per serving of organic lion’s mane fruiting body extract.
• It also contains antioxidant-rich Chaga mushroom.
• No jitters or crash like regular coffee.
• Smooth, full-bodied flavor with low acidity.

Cons

• More expensive than regular coffee or essential supplements.
• Some may prefer to get a lion’s mane separately from coffee.
• It contains caffeine, which some may want to avoid.

Lions Mane Brand	1 Bag (One Time Purchase)	2 Bags (One Time Purchase)	4 Bags (One Time Purchase)
Four Sigmatic Think Organic Mushroom Coffee	$20.00 ($1.25 per serving)	$38.00 ($1.19 per serving)	$72.00 ($1.13 per serving)

Lions Mane Brand	1 Bag (Subscription)	2 Bags (Subscription)	4 Bags (Subscription)
Four Sigmatic Think Organic Mushroom Coffee	$16.00 ($1.00 per serving)	$30.40 ($0.95 per serving)	$57.60 ($0.90 per serving)

Regarding creative and convenient ways to get your daily dose of lion’s mane, Four Sigmatic’s Think Mushroom Coffee is in a league of its own.

This unique blend combines the brain-boosting power of 250mg of organic lion’s mane mushroom extract with a smooth, specialty-grade Colombian coffee.

The result is a delicious way to combine your morning coffee ritual with a Focus-enhancing dose of lion’s mane and immune-supporting chaga mushrooms.

Four Sigmatic sources the highest quality mushroom fruiting bodies rather than cheaper mycelium, ensuring you get 15x more active compounds in each serving.

Unlike regular coffee, which can lead to jitters and crashes, Think Mushroom Coffee provides steady, crash-free energy and mental clarity thanks to lion’s mane’s nootropic properties.

For those who want to effortlessly transform their daily brew into a productivity-boosting, cognition-enhancing beverage, Four Sigmatic’s innovative mushroom coffee is tough to beat.

Best Lion’s Mane Chocolate

Spacegood’s Rainbow Dust

Pros

• A good dose of lion’s mane.
• Good inclusions of other mushroom powder.
• Tastes great.

Cons

• Quite expensive.
• A couple of the extra ingredients are underdosed.

Lions Mane Brand	1 Bag (One Time Purchase)	2 Bags (One Time Purchase)	3 Bags (One Time Purchase)
Spacegood’s Rainbow Dust	$64.00 ($2.13 per serving)	$116.00 ($1.93 per serving)	$156.00 ($1.73 per serving)

This unique blend mixes Lion’s Mane extract with other functional mushrooms, creating a formula that supports mental function, mood balance, and overall well-being.

Its chocolate taste and eye-catching packaging make it an easy and tasty way to replace coffee.

Honestly, I like this product. I did find it a minor downgrade to Nootrum, but it tastes good—far better than other mushroom cocoas. It’s much smoother, less earthy, and overall, a pleasant experience.

The other downside is that a couple of the other non-mold ingredients here are underdosed unless you’re having 2 cups a day, making it quite expensive at $3 a day.

In this case, I’m discussing including Ashwagandha, Maca, and Rhodolia in the mushroom cocoa. But just one serving provides enough lion’s mane—it is the lower-end dose.

Best Lion’s Mane Tea

MUDWTR Matcha

Pros

• Tastes good.
• A good dose of lion’s mane.
• Good inclusions of other mushrooms.

Cons

• Expensive.

Lions Mane Brand	Price
MUDWTR Matcha	$30.00 ($1.33 per serving)

Now, I wasn’t a huge fan of Mud/Wtr’s main product, and I ultimately think that there are a lot of better cocoa-based Lion’s main powders, but the Matcha was very pleasant.

Now, there is the benefit of every ingredient being organic, including the organic lion’s mane.

The downside is that while this recipe contains enough lion’s mane mushrooms and organic reishi, some of the other ingredients are a little on the low side.

If you’re looking for a relaxing blend, the addition of L-theanine is nice, as it’s been shown to promote relaxation.

Unfortunately, while cinnamon and ginger improve the taste, they are not present in large enough doses for their primary health benefits.

As many reviewers claim, it won’t help lower blood sugar much unless you’re using it to replace a sugary drink.

But, if you’re after the lion’s mane supplement and fancy a boost to relaxation and cognitive function, then it’s a good choice.

Cognitive Benefits of Lions Mane Supplements

One of the most widely researched and celebrated benefits of lion’s mane supplements is their ability to support cognitive function and brain health.

The fungi have been shown to possess a range of neuroprotective and neuroregenerative properties, making them a valuable addition to the arsenal of natural brain-boosting supplements.

Enhancing Memory and Focus

Studies have demonstrated that the active compounds in lion’s mane, particularly the hericenones and erinacines, can stimulate the growth and repair of nerve cells, known as neurons.

This neurogenesis process is crucial for maintaining cognitive abilities, such as memory, concentration, and overall brain function. Lion’s mane supplements have repeatedly been shown to outperform a placebo group in clinical trials.

Potential Neuroprotective Effects

Emerging research suggests that lions mane supplements may also possess neuroprotective properties, potentially helping to mitigate the effects of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

These mushrooms’ antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may support brain health and slow the progression of cognitive decline. Lion’s mane mushrooms have also been shown to be helpful for mild cognitive impairment.

Improved Mood and Reduced Anxiety

In addition to their cognitive benefits, lion’s mane supplements have also been linked to improved mood and reduced anxiety levels.

The active compounds in these mushrooms may positively impact the regulation of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which are known to influence emotional well-being.

They’re not likely to do much for a major depressive disorder, but that doesn’t mean they’re not worth looking at for less serious issues.

Immune System Support with Lions Mane Supplements

The powerful immune-boosting properties of lion mane supplements are another critical aspect of their health benefits.

The beta-glucans and other bioactive compounds found in these mushrooms have been shown to profoundly impact the body’s natural defenses.

Enhanced Immune Cell Activity

Studies have demonstrated that lions mane supplements can stimulate the activity of various immune cells, including natural killer cells, macrophages, and lymphocytes. This enhanced immune response can help the body defend against pathogens and maintain overall health.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Lions mane supplements’ antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to their immune-boosting benefits. By helping to reduce inflammation throughout the body, these mushrooms may support the immune system’s ability to function optimally.

Potential Benefits for Autoimmune Conditions

Preliminary research suggests that lion’s mane supplements may also have the potential to modulate the immune system in a way that could benefit individuals with autoimmune disorders. However, more research is needed to understand the mechanisms and potential applications fully.

Cardiovascular Health Benefits of Lions Mane Supplements

In addition to their cognitive and immune-boosting properties, lions mane supplements have also been studied for their potential benefits in supporting cardiovascular health.

Cholesterol Management

Several studies have indicated that lion’s mane supplements may positively impact cholesterol levels.

The active compounds in these mushrooms have been shown to help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Lions mane supplements have also been explored for their potential to support healthy blood sugar levels.

The bioactive compounds in these mushrooms may modulate insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, which could be beneficial for individuals with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects on the Cardiovascular System

The anti-inflammatory properties of Lion’s Mane supplements may also positively impact the cardiovascular system. By helping to reduce inflammation in the blood vessels and other parts of the heart, these mushrooms may contribute to overall cardiovascular health and function.

Digestive Health Benefits of Lions Mane Supplements

The potential benefits of lion mane supplements extend beyond cognitive, immune, and cardiovascular health—they may also support digestive well-being.

Prebiotic Effects

The beta-glucans and other fibers present in lions mane supplements can act as prebiotics, helping nourish the gut’s beneficial bacteria.

This can contribute to a healthy and balanced gut microbiome, essential for overall digestive function and immune system health.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The anti-inflammatory compounds found in lion’s mane supplements may also positively impact the gastrointestinal tract.

By helping to reduce inflammation in the gut, these mushrooms may alleviate symptoms associated with various digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Potential Ulcer-Healing Properties

Some research has suggested that lions mane supplements may possess ulcer-healing properties, potentially helping to repair and protect the lining of the stomach and small intestine.

This could be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with gastric or duodenal ulcers.

Potential Anti-Cancer Properties of Lions Mane Supplements

Emerging research has also explored the potential anti-cancer properties of lion mane supplements. While more studies are needed in this area, the available evidence suggests these mushrooms may possess promising cancer-fighting abilities.

Inhibition of Tumor Growth

Several studies have indicated that the active compounds in lions mane supplements, such as the hericenones and erinacines, may have the ability to inhibit the growth and proliferation of certain types of cancer cells.

This could potentially make these mushrooms a valuable addition to a comprehensive cancer prevention and management strategy.

Modulation of the Immune System

The immune-boosting properties of lion mane supplements may also contribute to their potential anti-cancer effects. By stimulating the activity of immune cells, these mushrooms may help the body better recognize and eliminate cancerous cells, potentially reducing the risk of tumor development and progression.

How To Pick The Best Lion’s Mane Supplement

Fruiting Body

When selecting any mushroom supplement, especially if it isn’t a standardized extract, it is important to look for the fruiting body.

That’s because the bottom or fins of the mushroom contain a lot less or, in some cases, none of the active compounds.

In the case of Lion’s Mane, the ones that have been studied to improve brain function and nerve growth factor.

There isn’t any difference between wild mushrooms and farmed mushrooms as long as they’re the fruiting body.

You just need to avoid mycelium, which some cheap brands use because you can grow it without the rest of the lion’s mane, and it costs less.

Extraction Process

There are various ways to extract the compounds from lion’s mane, but dual extraction is usually best.

That means combining both hot water and alcohol extraction. This method ensures the extraction of both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble compounds.

And with Lion’s Mane mushrooms, you need both hericenones and erinacines, even if you get your beta glucans elsewhere.

And you get Erinacines from one type and Hericenones from the other. My number one-rated brand, Nootrum, uses a specialized dual extraction method.

Active Compounds in Lions Mane Supplements

The unique and diverse health benefits of lion mane supplements can be attributed to the presence of several critical active compounds. These include:

1. Hericenones: These bioactive compounds stimulate the growth and regeneration of nerve cells, making them particularly beneficial for cognitive function and neurological health.
2. Erinacines: These powerful compounds have been shown to possess potent neuroprotective properties, helping to support brain health and potentially mitigating the effects of neurodegenerative diseases.
3. Beta-glucans: Lions mane mushrooms are rich in these complex carbohydrates, which have been linked to enhanced immune system function and improved overall well-being.
4. Antioxidants: Lions mane supplements contain various antioxidant compounds, including ergothioneine and polyphones, which can help neutralize harmful free radicals and support cellular health.

The synergistic action of these active compounds makes lions mane supplements so powerful and versatile in their potential health benefits.

Best Ways to Incorporate Lion’s Mane into Your Routine

There are various formats and delivery methods when it comes to incorporating Lion’s Mane into your daily life. Let’s explore the best ways to harness the power of this remarkable mushroom:

Lion’s Mane Capsules

Lion’s Mane capsules offer a simple and convenient way to add this potent mushroom to your routine.

With precise dosages and standardized extracts, these capsules ensure you receive the full benefits of Lion’s Mane’s active compounds. Look for brands that source their mushrooms from organic farms to ensure maximum potency.

Lion’s Mane Powder

Lion’s Mane powder provides a flexible option, allowing you to customize your intake. You can easily add it to smoothies and teas or sprinkle it over your meals. This format offers easy absorption and the ability to tailor the dosage to your needs.

Lion’s Mane Coffee Blends

Lion’s Mane coffee blends provide a stimulating alternative

 for coffee enthusiasts seeking a cognitive boost.

Combining the rich taste of coffee with the brain-enhancing properties of Lion’s Mane, these blends can offer natural energy without the jitters or crashes often associated with caffeine.

Lion’s Mane Tea Infusions

Lion’s Mane tea infusions offer a relaxing way to enjoy the benefits of this remarkable mushroom.

These herbal teas are carefully crafted to extract Lion’s Mane’s bioactive compounds while delivering a delightful taste. Sipping on a warm cup of Lion’s Mane tea can promote mental clarity throughout the day.

Lion’s Mane Gummies

Gummies offer a fun and straightforward way to consume Lion’s Mane. These chewable treats are often infused with Lion’s Mane extract and other complementary ingredients to create a blend that supports cognitive function and overall mental well-being.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom Blends

Lion’s Mane mushroom blends combine the power of this amazing fungus with other adaptogenic herbs and medicinal mushrooms.

These carefully designed formulas offer a brilliant solution for better brain function, helping individuals quest for greater focus, mental clarity, and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Lion’s Mane Questions

What Form Of Lion’s Mane Is Best To Take?

The best form of lion’s mane depends on your preferences and priorities. Powders and extracts are typically more potent and provide higher concentrations of the beneficial compounds.

However, capsules are more convenient and avoid the strong, earthy taste of lion’s mane powder.

Gummies are an option for those wanting a tasty delivery method, but they often contain less lion’s mane than powders or capsules.

Ultimately, a high-quality extract powder or capsule standardized for beta-glucan content is ideal for getting maximum nootropic effects.

Should I Take Ashwagandha Or Lions Mane?

Ashwagandha and lion’s mane can complement each other well. Ashwagandha is an adaptogen herb that helps the body cope with stress while providing benefits like improved sleep, focus, and testosterone levels.

Lion’s mane is prized for its nootropic properties that may enhance cognitive function, memory, and neural protection/regeneration.

Combining them can promote a sense of calm, mental clarity, and balanced neurological health. However, if you want to target a specific benefit, one may be preferable, depending on your goal.

Are Lions Mane Powder Or Capsules Better?

Both powder and capsule forms of lion’s mane can be effective, but they each have pros and cons.

Powders are typically more potent and economical, as you can precisely measure your dosage. However, they have a strong earthy flavor some find unpalatable and can be messier.

Capsules are more convenient, portable, and flavorless, but you’re limited to standardized doses. They can also be more expensive per gram of lion’s mane than powder.

Summary

Nootrum Lion’s Mane is the most potent lion’s mane brand if you’re looking for pure lion’s mane. For a supplement with multiple mushroom species, take their Nootrum Capsules.

Affiliate Disclosure:
The links provided may earn us a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to purchase the recommended product. This support allows our research and editorial team to continue providing high-quality recommendations. As a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising initiative, we are able to earn advertising fees through providing links to products on Amazon.com. Please rest assured that we only recommend high-quality products.