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Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board

Lion's Mane

LIMITED EVIDENCEAdaptogenLast updated April 5, 2026

SCAN DOSE SUMMARY

Lion's mane is a medicinal mushroom with neuroprotective properties that stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) production. The honest assessment: the hype far exceeds the evidence. Only 3 clinical trials with 101 total participants exist. Results are limited (Grade C at best) for cognitive decline, menopausal symptoms, and mood. It's promising but under-studied. We need more and larger human trials before making strong claims.

EVIDENCE GRADES

Cognitive Decline (MCI)Limited — 1 study, 30 participants
C
Menopausal SymptomsLimited — 1 study, 30 participants
C
Depression/Anxiety SymptomsLimited — 1 study, 30 participants
C
Alzheimer's DiseaseNo effect — 1 study, 41 participants
D

OPTIMAL DOSAGE

  • Range studied: 1,050-3,000mg/day, divided into 3-4 doses
  • Optimal dose: Unknown. Minimum effective dose uncertain.
  • Forms: Fruiting body extract or mycelium. Fruiting body generally preferred (higher active compound concentration).
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SAFETY PROFILE

Side Effects

  • Limited data. Generally well tolerated in the few studies conducted.
  • GI symptoms possible. Allergic reactions reported in rare cases (it's a mushroom — relevant for mushroom-allergic individuals).

Drug Interactions

  • No established drug interactions (insufficient research, not proof of safety).
  • Theoretical: may interact with blood-sugar-lowering drugs (animal data shows glucose-lowering effects).

Precautions

  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Not studied. Avoid.
  • Mushroom allergies: Avoid.

WADA Status

Not Prohibited.

WHO SHOULD BE CAREFUL

HOW SCAN DOSE SCORES THIS

Present at 1,000-3,000mg:⚠️ Yellow flag — promising but insufficient human evidence for confident recommendation
Underdosed (<500mg):⚠️ Yellow flag — well below studied range
Marketed with strong cognitive claims:⚠️ Yellow flag — evidence doesn't support strong claims yet

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Reviewed by the Scan Dose Research Team and Clinical Advisory Board | Last updated: April 5, 2026

Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.

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