Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a medicinal mushroom increasingly studied for its potential effects on mood, particularly for symptoms like worry, anxiety, and mild depression. While lion's mane has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for supporting general health and cognitive function, recent scientific research has begun to examine its impact on mood and anxiety.

Animal studies suggest that lion's mane may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, possibly by promoting nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis and supporting neurogenesis, particularly in the hippocampus—an area of the brain involved in emotion regulation. A small number of human studies also exist. For example, a 2010 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in menopausal women found that those who consumed lion's mane cookies for four weeks reported lower levels of irritation and anxiety compared to placebo. Another small study suggested possible mood-stabilizing effects in healthy adults.

However, the clinical evidence is still preliminary. Most human studies are small, short-term, and often use subjective self-report measures. While there is a plausible biological rationale and some early clinical support, larger and more rigorous trials are needed to confirm efficacy and establish dosing guidelines. For now, lion's mane shows promising but limited scientific evidence for supporting worry and anxiety.

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