Ever seen a mushroom that looks like a fluffy white pom-pom?
That’s
Lion’s Mane — a superfood 'shroom that’s not only tasty as hell, but also packed with potential health benefits.
So what’s all the fuss about? This funky-looking fungi is popping up everywhere lately, from foodie blogs to wellness podcasts. And it’s not just a trend - Lion’s Mane has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, and now science is finally starting to catch up.
With potential benefits for your brain, gut, immune system and more, it’s no wonder this mushroom is having a major moment.
Here’s why you might want to start keeping Lion’s Mane on regular rotation in your kitchen…
🧠 Brain-Boosting
Lion’s Mane contains two major compounds - hericenones and erinacines - which appear to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that helps your brain grow and repair nerve cells. Animal studies and a few small human trials suggest Lion’s Mane might:
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Support memory and cognitive function
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Improve mental focus and processing speed
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Slow brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative conditions
One study showed that older adults with mild cognitive issues saw temporary improvements after taking Lion’s Mane supplements for 4 months. Another study found improved mental performance speed in younger adults.
💛 Mood, Mind & Mental Health
Lion’s Mane might also support your emotional well-being. In a small study in Japan, women who ate cookies containing Lion’s Mane extract for 4 weeks reported lower levels of anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms compared to those eating placebo cookies.
Scientists believe hericenones and erinacines play a role here too, possibly by affecting NGF levels in the brain, which may be linked to mood regulation.
💥 Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant Power
Many chronic diseases - heart disease, arthritis, even cancer - are linked to inflammation and oxidative stress (aka damage caused by free radicals). Lion’s Mane is rich in antioxidants and compounds that show strong anti-inflammatory properties.
🔧 Nerve Repair & Regeneration
Unlike some other treatments in development, the compounds in Lion’s Mane appear able to cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially helping regenerate nerves after injury or in diseases like:
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Stroke
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Parkinson’s
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Huntington’s
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Multiple sclerosis
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Nerve damage from injuries or diabetes
💚Other Emerging Benefits
Here are a few other areas where Lion’s Mane is showing potential:
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Diabetes support: Animal studies suggest it can lower blood sugar, boost insulin levels, and even ease diabetic nerve pain.
- Stomach protection: Lion’s Mane has been used in traditional medicine to soothe the stomach. In one rat study, it helped prevent ulcers by strengthening the stomach lining and slowing the growth of ulcer-causing bacteria like H. pylori.
🍽️ How to Cook It
Fresh Lion’s Mane has a naturally meaty, seafood-like texture, making it a favourite for plant-based dishes. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
Pan-fry in garlic butter or olive oil: Slice thick and cook until golden brown on each side. Add a splash of lemon or tamari for an umami hit.
Shred it like crab meat: Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or Lion’s Mane “crab” cakes.
Roast or grill in chunks: A drizzle of oil and some seasoning is all you need.
Add to risottos, stir-fries, or soups for added richness and depth.
👉 Tip: It soaks up oil like a sponge, so go light on the fats until you get the texture you want!
🛒 Fresh from Wulff & Cub
Our fresh Lion’s Mane Mushrooms come straight from Wulff & Cub, a local family with a passion for fungi, flavour, and sustainability. They handpick the mushrooms just a day or two (sometimes hours) before they end up in your organic grocery box, so they’re at peak nutrition when you eat them.
Whether you're looking to boost your brain health, support your gut, or just try something new, Lion’s Mane is truly one of the best things you could add to your diet.
