Is Lion's Mane safe? Side effects and tips
Short answer: Lion's Mane has been eaten for centuries and is considered safe as a food. Side effects are rarely reported in studies, and when they are, they are usually mild. Less is known about long-term use as a supplement, and for some people, extra caution is advisable.
What side effects have been reported?
In small studies with Lion's Mane, the following complaints were occasionally reported (Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation):
- Gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating or nausea
- Skin rash or itching, possibly due to an allergic reaction
The complaints were usually mild and disappeared after stopping. There is one known report of a severe respiratory reaction in someone who may have been allergic to the mushroom. This is rare, but it shows that a mushroom allergy should be taken seriously.
When should you take extra caution?
|
Situation |
Advice |
|---|---|
|
Allergy to mushrooms or fungi |
Do not use |
|
Pregnancy or breastfeeding |
Not recommended; too little is known |
|
Blood thinners |
Consult your doctor first |
|
Diabetes medication |
Consult your doctor first |
|
Immunosuppressants |
Consult your doctor first |
|
Surgery planned |
Stop a few weeks beforehand and inform your doctor |
Not sure? Take the packaging with you to your GP or pharmacist.
How to choose a safe product
Not every supplement is the same. Look out for:
- Clear label: type, part of the mushroom (fruiting body or mycelium), amount per serving and Dutch directions for use.
- No unnecessary fillers: the shorter the ingredients list, the better.
- A European seller: they must comply with European rules for food supplements.
- No miracle promises: a product that promises to cure diseases is a red flag.
How to get started
- Stick to the recommended amount on the packaging. More is not better.
- Start slowly: take half the first week to see how your body reacts.
- With food: those with a sensitive stomach should take Lion's Mane with a meal.
- Stop if you experience symptoms such as skin rash or shortness of breath, and contact your doctor if in doubt.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lion's Mane addictive? No. Lion's Mane is an edible mushroom and contains no addictive substances.
Is Lion's Mane psychedelic? No. Lion's Mane contains no psilocybin and is not mind-altering. It is completely different from magic truffles; read about that here Magic truffles vs. mushrooms: what is the difference?.
Can I combine Lion's Mane with coffee? Yes, many people stir the powder into their coffee. You can find recipes in Mushroom coffee: how to make it yourself.
Can I take Lion's Mane every day? In studies, Lion's Mane was used daily for up to several months. Stick to the recommended amount on the packaging.
Want to know more about what the research says? Read Lion's Mane: what does the research say? or view the MIND collection.
Lion's Mane is a food supplement, not a medicine. It is not intended to prevent, treat or cure diseases.
Sources
- Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation. Lion's Mane – Cognitive Vitality.