The Evidence Supporting Lion’s Mane for ADHD
Keeping the brain neurons healthier
Lion’s Mane contains compounds like hericenones and erinacines, which have been shown to promote the production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in the brain. Scientists call these ‘neuroprotective and neuroregenerative’ effects.
NGF helps brain neurons grow and stay healthy. So, at least in theory, it could help in managing the cognitive lapses and attention issues associated with ADHD.
A study in Japan proved that taking Lion’s Mane did improve cognitive function in older adults, particularly their memory and recall.
The researchers concluded:
‘…oral intake of H. erinaceus significantly improved cognitive functions and prevented deterioration. We speculate that various chemical compounds, including hericenones, in the mushroom have multiple effects to the brain neural networks and improve cognitive functions.’
However, this study did not focus specifically on ADHD patients.
Reference: Improvement of cognitive functions by oral intake of Hericium erinaceus, Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K., Azumi, Y., & Tuchida, T. (2009). Phytotherapy Research, 23(3), 367–372.
Reducing anxiety and depression symptoms
ADHD is often accompanied by conditions such as anxiety and depression. Some studies suggest that Lion’s Mane may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Improving overall mood and emotional balance can improve ADHD symptoms.
A Study giving people either Lion’s mane powder cookies or ordinary placebo cookies showed that Lion’s Mane supplementation reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in menopausal women.
Obviously this isn’t direct evidence in favour of lion’s mane ADHD supplementation, but it could have implications for ADHD-related anxiety.
Reference: Reduction of Depression and Anxiety by 4 Weeks Hericium erinaceus Intake, Nagano, M., Shimizu, K., Kondo, R., Hayashi, C., Sato, D., Kitago, H., & Okamura, T. (2010). Biomedical Research, 31(4), 231-237.
Lion’s mane for ADHD and better cognitive functioning?
Some animal studies indicate that Lion’s Mane may improve cognitive function and memory by enhancing neurogenesis and improving synaptic plasticity. Synaptic plasticity means being able to learn things from new experiences, and recall them spontaneously when you need to.
The evidence for this is a bit of a stretch, unfortunately. A study on mice found that Lion’s Mane extracts enhanced their recognition memory and spatial memory. Theoretically, this might mean it could translate to improvements in attention and focus in humans.
Reference: Stimulation of the synthesis of nerve growth factor by hericenones from Hericium erinaceus, Kawagishi, H., Ando, M., Mizuno, T., & Shimada, A. (2008), Mycobiology, 36(2), 109-112.
Weak Points in the Evidence for Lion’s Mane for ADHD
The Research doesn’t focus specifically on lion’s mane for ADHD
No clinical trials have specifically evaluated Lion’s Mane for the treatment of ADHD, in children or in adults. Most of the studies on Lion’s Mane focus on older adults, depression and anxiety, or on boosting memory in the general population, rather than ADHD specifically.
Research only uses small groups of people
The majority of studies on Lion’s Mane are either animal studies, or involve just small groups of humans. Small sample sizes mean we can’t regard them as strong evidence.
Inconsistent lion’s mane supplement strength and doses
Not all Lion’s Mane supplements are standardised for their active compounds (hericenones and erinacines). When research uses different doses, it’s harder to find consistent results.
How to try lion’s mane for ADHD
If you want to try Lion’s Mane for ADHD, there are safe and appropriate doses.
PLAIN POWDER – A common dose of plain powder is 500 mg to 1,800 mg per day. You may gradually increase the dose, up to 3,000 mg per day, depending on your response and any advice from a medical professional.
CONCENTRATED EXTRACT – If you take a lion’s mane extract, you’ll take a lower amount but with more concentrated active ingredients. Choose a high-quality supplement standardised for active compounds like hericenones and erinacines, which are believed to support cognitive function. Check the equivalent amount of lion’s mane powder on the label, to know how much you’re getting.
What are the risks?
While Lion’s Mane is generally considered safe, some people may experience mild side effects such as digestive discomfort, skin rashes, or allergic reactions.
- If you have a mushroom allergy, don’t take lion’s mane.
- If you are on medications that affect blood clotting or blood sugar levels, see your GP or talk to a pharmacist before trying lion’s mane.
It’s always wise to consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Conclusion
Some research suggests that Lion’s Mane can improve cognitive functioning, improving both mental clarity, concentration and helping people achieve a more balanced mood.
Despite this, the evidence specifically supporting lion’s mane for ADHD is limited and largely indirect. This is because the studies weren’t specifically done using people with ADHD and measuring their symptoms in particular.
We still need targeted research to take the evidence in favour of Lion’s Mane for ADHD supplements from positive anecdotes to hard scientific proof.
