In today's fast-paced and stressful world, depression has become a prevalent issue. 

With an increase in depression, there’s also an increase in people seeking natural remedies to take control of depression symptoms and enhance overall well-being. 

One such remedy that is gaining popularity is lion's mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus). 

Let's delve into the potential benefits of lion's mane mushroom for depression and its role in promoting mental wellness.

Understanding depression 

Depression is a multifaceted mental health condition characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, despair, and lack of motivation. 

It can disrupt daily life, affecting work performance, relationships, and overall quality of life. 

While therapy and medication are available as treatment options, some individuals are turning to alternative approaches such as natural supplements.

How is depression treated?

Depression is often treated using a combination of medication and therapy. 

Medications like antidepressants can help manage symptoms. Therapy, such as behavioural therapy, can teach coping strategies and improve functioning.

These traditional anxiety treatments can be highly effective. Therapy, like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), helps identify and change negative thought patterns, and medications, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can reduce depression symptoms. 

However, effectiveness varies from person to person, and antidepressant medications do come with unwanted side effects. 

What are the main effects of lion’s mane?

Lion’s mane has become very popular among people with depression. 

This is largely thanks to its cognitive benefits including its ability to increase NGF (nerve growth factor) levels and promote neurogenesis (growth of new brain cells). 

These properties mean that many people who use lion’s mane experience:

• Clarity of thought
• Enhanced memory
• Enhanced focus
• Enhanced cognition
• Increased energy

The unseen benefits of lion’s mane are even more profound and include: 

• Protection of the brain against neurodegenerative disease
• Reduction in inflammation, particularly in the gut
• Reduction in depression and anxiety
• Enhance recovery from nervous system injuries
• Lower risk of blood clotting and heart attack and stroke
• Control blood sugar and manage diabetes
• Possible anti-cancer effects 
• Boost immune function 

You’d be wise not to expect instant results with lion’s mane supplements, however. Clinical studies done with lion’s mane are typically done over at least two months of use.

Can lion's mane mushroom help with depression?

Several studies suggest that lion's mane mushroom may have an impact on depression symptoms and overall mental well-being. 

This study looked at the effects of lion’s mane on menopause, depression, sleep quality, and general complaints among 30 women.  

The subjects were randomly assigned to either the lion’s mane group or the placebo group, and for 4 weeks, they consumed either lion’s mane cookies or placebo cookies.

The results showed that after taking lion’s mane cookies, the scores for depression and general complaints were significantly lower compared to before. 

Additionally, in terms of specific complaints, the lion’s mane group had significant improvements in  concentration, irritation, and anxiety scores.

These findings suggest that lion’s mane intake has the potential to reduce depression and anxiety, possibly due to a mechanism beyond its known effect on nerve growth factor (NGF) synthesis.

Another experiment, conducted on mice, revealed that lion's mane extract demonstrated antidepressive effects by reducing anxiety-like behaviours and promoting a sense of calm. 

This one found that consuming lion's mane prevents cognitive dysfunction in healthy adults. 

In a recent study, scientists found that a certain compound within lion’s mane mushrooms, called hericene A, promotes nerve cell growth, increases the production of brain-boosting molecules called neurotrophins, and improves memory performance in mice.

It is therefore theorised that hericene A is responsible for much of the antidepressant effects of lion’s mane mushroom. 

Potential benefits of lion's mane for depression

While research on this topic is still emerging, there are several ways in which lion's mane may offer potential benefits for depression:

- Neuroprotective properties

Lion's mane contains compounds like erinacines and hericenones, which have been shown to stimulate the growth and repair of nerve cells. This neuroprotective effect may help protect against the damage to brain cells associated with depression.

- Enhanced brain function

Some studies suggest that lion's mane may improve cognitive function, including memory and concentration. These benefits can indirectly help individuals with depression by improving their ability to engage in daily activities and make positive lifestyle choices.

- Reduction in inflammation

Chronic inflammation has been linked to depression, and lion's mane has anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation in the brain and throughout the body, lion's mane may help alleviate some depressive symptoms.

- Improved mood

Some preliminary research in animals and small human studies have suggested that lion's mane may have a positive impact on mood. It is believed that this effect may be related to the mushroom's ability to promote the release of nerve growth factor (NGF), which supports the growth and function of neurons.

- Stress reduction

Chronic stress is a significant contributor to depression, and lion's mane may help reduce stress by modulating the HPA axis, which is involved in the body's stress response.

- Antioxidant activity

Lion's mane is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the brain and other organs from oxidative stress. This may be particularly relevant for individuals with depression, as oxidative stress has been implicated in the development of mood disorders.

- Gut-brain connection

Emerging research suggests that there is a strong connection between gut health and mental health. Lion's mane may promote gut health by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which could indirectly influence mood and depression.

How does lion's mane mushroom work?

Lion's Mane mushroom contains bioactive compounds believed to contribute to its potential therapeutic effects. 

These compounds include hericenones and erinacines, which have been found to stimulate the production of nerve growth factors (NGFs) in the brain. 

NGFs play a vital role in the growth, maintenance, and repair of nerve cells, promoting neuroplasticity and supporting overall brain health.

How to take lion's mane mushroom for depression

When it comes to consuming lion’s mane, you have a number of options. 

Eat it

Of course, you can pick and eat lion’s mane mushrooms and it’s actually quite nice. Its texture can be quite tough so it’s best to cook - ideally pan fry - beforehand. 

Capsules

Capsules containing dried lion’s mane powder or an extract are very convenient and accurate ways of taking lion’s mane. One convenient option is our popular Cognitive Enhancer Lion's Mane Capsules. 

These potent capsules contain pure lion's mane mushroom extract, ensuring a convenient and standardised dosage for consistent results. 

Powder

Dried lion’s mane powder is a versatile way to add the mushroom to smoothies or various dishes. 

Tincture

Alcohol-based extracts offer a way to consume concentrated lion’s mane easily and effectively. These tinctures can be quite potent and are great for adding to coffee, tea or other drinks. 

By integrating lion's mane mushroom into your wellness regimen, you can support your journey towards anxiety relief and improved mental well-being.

Lion’s mane vs depression medication 

There are several potential benefits of using a natural treatment option such as lion's mane mushroom instead of traditional antidepressant medication:

- Reduced side effects

Unlike many traditional antidepressant medications that may come with a range of side effects, lion's mane mushroom is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, making it an appealing option for those seeking a natural approach with minimal negative effects.

- Cognitive support 

Depression often takes a toll on cognitive function, leading to difficulties in concentration, memory, and decision-making.

By promoting the production of nerve growth factors, such as the crucial protein known as nerve growth factor (NGF), lion’s mane may support brain health and aid in restoring cognitive function. Something that commonly prescribed antidepressants don’t.

- Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects

Inflammation in the brain has been linked to the development and exacerbation of depression.

Lion's mane contains bioactive compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. 

- Complementary therapy 

Lion's mane mushroom can be used alongside other depression management strategies, including therapy and lifestyle modifications.

Combining lion's mane with techniques like mindfulness, exercise, or counselling may provide a more holistic approach to addressing the condition from various angles.

Conclusion

Depression can significantly impact our lives, but natural remedies like lion's mane mushroom offer a potential solution. 

Studies have found that compounds in lion's mane may have potential benefits for cognitive function and overall brain health, and anecdotal evidence suggest it may be helpful for certain depression symptoms.

As a natural treatment option with limited side effects, lion's mane mushrooms may be useful in conjunction with other therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, to provide a more comprehensive treatment plan for individuals.

If you're interested in trying lion's mane, we stock one of the strongest standardised lion’s mane extracts on the market here. 

This article was written strictly for educational purposes and is not intended to offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any kind.