The Cognitive Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion’s Mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is known as Hou Tou Gu in traditional Chinese medicine. It is a highly-sought edible mushroom, and it can also be cultivated, as seen in the photo. It has a seafood-like flavor and can be used in stir-fries, soups, or to create vegan “crab cakes.” It has numerous beneficial effects on the brain:

Effects on mild cognitive impairment: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18844328/

Effects on depression and anxiety: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20834180/

Effects on nerve growth factor: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24266378/