I first heard about CBD in 2016. And it sounded amazing. 

The non intoxicating cannabinoid was gaining recognition for its seemingly endless health benefits and the fact it didn’t get you high like THC.   

I was intrigued, so I tried pretty much every CBD product I could find at the time in the UK (not many). And I was impressed by its effectiveness and versatility. 

So were a number of friends and family who I have gifted CBD to to help with various ailments, from headaches and anxiety to arthritis and skin conditions. 

I was so impressed and excited by CBD’s potential, I even started a blog about cannabis.

Not long after this, a new natural supplement caught my attention - lion’s mane mushroom. 

I probably first heard about it when Paul Stamets went on Joe Rogan’s podcast and started talking about its ability to promote brain cell growth and how it could work synergistically with psilocybin. 

Again, I became a bit obsessed and tried all the lion’s mane products out there (again, not many at the time).

I found it very effective, but in a different way to CBD. Rather than soothing health problems, it enhanced my focus, mood and my overall awareness - particularly when using it as part of a microdosing stack. 

Which is why I then managed to source some of the best lion’s mane extract in the world and started Mushies!

In this article, we will explore the characteristics, benefits, and differences between these two natural supplements, as well as how their effects overlap and may even complement each other when used together. 

What is CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol. It is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. 

Unlike its counterpart THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), however, CBD does not produce mind-altering effects or make people feel "high." 

This makes it more appealing for those seeking potential therapeutic benefits without the intoxicating effects associated with cannabis.

What is Lion’s mane?

Lion's mane mushroom, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, is an edible and medicinal mushroom with a distinctive appearance, which resembles the mane of a lion (hence the name).

Lion's mane mushrooms are native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and they have been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. 

They are characterised by their long, shaggy spines that hang down from the mushroom, giving it a unique appearance.

In terms of culinary use, lion's mane mushrooms have a mild and slightly sweet flavour, with a firm, meaty texture, making them a popular ingredient in vegetarian and vegan dishes. 

CBD benefits

CBD has been the subject of numerous studies investigating its potential benefits. 

While research is still ongoing and more evidence is needed, here are some proven benefits associated with CBD:

• Pain relief 

CBD appears to have analgesic properties and could potentially help alleviate chronic pain, including neuropathic pain, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis-related pain.

• Anxiety and depression management

CBD has shown promise in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in both human and animal studies. It may interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, which are involved in regulating mood and anxiety.

• Neuroprotective properties

CBD has demonstrated potential neuroprotective effects, which means it may help protect and support the health of the nervous system and brain. This could have implications for conditions like Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and epilepsy.

• Sleep disorders

CBD may help improve sleep quality and address sleep disorders like insomnia. Some studies suggest that it may promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, leading to better sleep.

• Anti-inflammatory effects

CBD has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which could be beneficial in conditions characterised by inflammation, such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and multiple sclerosis.

• Skin conditions

CBD has shown promise in managing various skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, and eczema. It may help reduce inflammation, regulate sebum production, and promote overall skin health.

• Addiction management

CBD may have potential in helping individuals manage substance addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Studies have explored its effects on opioid, nicotine, and cannabis addiction.

Lion’s mane benefits

Lion's mane mushrooms have been traditionally used in Asian cultures for their potential health benefits for centuries. 

While research is still ongoing, here are some potential benefits associated with lion's mane:

• Cognitive function and brain health 

Lion's mane has been studied for its potential to support cognitive function and brain health. Some research suggests that it may help improve memory, focus, and overall mental clarity. 

A compound in lion’s mane also promotes the growth and development of nerve cells, potentially enhancing neuroplasticity.

Read: Can Lion’s Mane Mushroom Help With ADHD?

• Nervous system support

Lion's mane mushrooms contain bioactive compounds that may have neuroprotective effects. They may help support the nervous system by reducing inflammation and promoting nerve regeneration. 

This could be beneficial for conditions such as neuropathy and nerve damage.

• Mood and mental well-being

Preliminary studies have indicated that lion's mane may have an impact on mood and mental well-being. 

It may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, potentially through their effects on neurotransmitters and brain function.

• Digestive health

Lion's mane mushroom has positive effects on the digestive system. It contain dietary fibres and compounds that may support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, promote gut health, and help alleviate digestive issues.

• Immune system support

Some research suggests that lion's mane mushroom may have immune-modulating effects, helping to support a healthy immune response. It is thought to stimulate the activity of certain immune cells and enhance overall immune function.

• Anti-inflammatory properties

Lion's mane contains bioactive compounds with potential anti-inflammatory effects,, which could be beneficial for conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

• Antioxidant activity

Lion's mane also contains antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Antioxidants have a positive impact on overall health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Read: 10 Best Lion’s Mane Supplements (UK)

Lion’s mane vs CBD

CBD and lion’s mane are two very different supplements so it’s hard to compare them. However, there are some scenarios where one may be more appropriate to use than the other. 

CBD is best used for its potential benefits in managing pain, reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, improving sleep, and addressing various medical conditions such as epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. 

It may also have anti-inflammatory effects and potential applications in skincare.

Lion's mane mushroom is best used for cognitive support and brain health as it helps improve memory, focus, and mental clarity. 

Additionally, lion's mane may have benefits for the nervous system, digestive health, immune system support, and may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

5 benefits of combining lion’s mane and CBD

Combining CBD and lion's mane mushrooms may have the potential for synergistic effects, as they each offer distinct benefits. Here are a few ways in which their combination could be useful:

1. Cognitive enhancement

Both CBD and lion's mane mushrooms have shown potential in supporting cognitive function and brain health. By combining these two supplements, you may enhance their individual effects on memory, focus, mental clarity, and overall cognitive performance.

2. Stress and anxiety reduction

CBD is known for its anxiolytic properties, and lion's mane mushrooms may help reduce symptoms of anxiety. Combining the two may provide a more comprehensive approach to managing stress and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.

3. Nervous system support

CBD has potential neuroprotective effects, while lion's mane mushroom may help with neuroplasticity and overall nerve health. Combining them may offer a multifaceted approach to supporting the nervous system, potentially promoting nerve regeneration and overall neural well-being.

4. Anti-inflammatory and immune support

Both CBD and lion's mane mushrooms possess anti-inflammatory properties and potential immune-modulating effects. Combining them may provide a more comprehensive approach to addressing inflammation-related conditions and supporting a healthy immune response.

5. Overall well-being 

Combining CBD and lion's mane mushrooms may contribute to overall well-being by addressing different aspects of health.

CBD's potential benefits in pain management, sleep improvement, and mood regulation, when combined with lion's mane's cognitive support, nervous system support, and potential digestive health benefits, may promote a holistic approach to wellness.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, CBD and lion's mane mushrooms are two distinct natural supplements with unique benefits. 

CBD offers potential advantages in managing pain, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and inflammation, while lion's mane mushroom excels in supporting cognitive function, nervous system health, mood, digestion, and immune system function. 

While they have some overlapping effects, such as anti-inflammatory properties and potential anxiety reduction, their primary benefits differ. 

However, combining CBD and lion's mane mushrooms may offer synergistic effects, enhancing cognitive function, stress reduction, nervous system support, and overall well-being. 

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You can buy high quality lion's mane here. 

One exceptional product that harnesses the combined power of CBD and lion’s mane is these NEURO+ capsules from Brown’s CBD. 

Read: 10 Best Lion’s Mane Supplements (UK)