Edible mushrooms are legendary for their high nutritional value and far-reaching health benefits, ranging from immune support to cardiovascular wellness. But did you know that there are also nootropic mushrooms that help with cognitive performance and brain health?
In this guide, we discuss the best mushroom nootropics for sharpening mental clarity, elevating mood, clearing brain fog and more. We highlight the most effective nootropic mushroom known to science (Lion's Mane Mushroom) along with emerging mushrooms for brain health. Finally, we detail the top nootropic mushroom supplement you can buy on the market today.
Ready to dig into mushrooms that support brain health? Let's get to it!
Quick Summary: Best Nootropic Mushrooms
So what are nootropic mushrooms? Certain mushrooms may possess cognition-enhancing and neuroprotective properties that classify them as nootropics. These functional mushrooms include:
- Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus): Lion's Mane is renowned for its ability to support nerve growth factor (NGF) production, which leads to cognitive benefits and potentially aids in the regeneration of nerve cells. It is believed to support mental clarity, memory and focus.
- Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum): Reishi mushrooms contain beneficial compounds that may help regulate inflammation and support overall brain health. They are mostly known for their immune-boosting properties but may have some brain health potential, too.
- Cordyceps Mushroom (Cordyceps sinensis): Cordyceps have been associated with increased oxygen utilization in the brain, potentially enhancing mental clarity and cognitive performance. They may also have neuroprotective properties.
- Chaga Mushroom (Inonotus obliquus): Chaga mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect brain cells from oxidative stress. They may also have inflammation-modulating effects, potentially benefiting brain health.
- Maitake Mushroom (Grifola frondosa): Maitake mushrooms contain compounds that may have neuroprotective properties and support overall immune function, which can indirectly influence brain health.
- Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinula edodes): Shiitake mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, including B6 and folate, which are key for brain health. They also contain compounds that may support the immune system.
Of these mushroom nootropics, Lion's Mane is backed by the most human research for brain benefits. Other potential mushroom nootropics are backed by promising (but early) animal research. We'll summarize that evidence below.
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Mushrooms for Health
For thousands of years, folk health practitioners around the world have used mushrooms to support wellness. Of the millions of fungal species on planet earth, 2,000 are edible and 200 are beneficial for health.
Researchers have suggested that mushrooms may help with immune function, heart health, blood sugar balance, anti-aging and more.(3)
Although there are hundreds of beneficial mushrooms, only a handful are considered to be mushroom nootropics.
Best Nootropic Mushroom Overall: Lion's Mane
Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus), an exotic Chinese mushroom also known as Yamabushitake or hedgehog mushroom, is widely regarded as the best mushroom nootropic.
Its benefits for brain health, mental health and cognitive function are attributed to its hericenones and erinacines. These beneficial compounds stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF)(4), which in turn:
- Supports brain cell regeneration (a process known as neurogenesis)
- Helps stem cells become specialized brain cells
- Promotes brain cell growth, healthy function, survival and longevity
- Maintains and organize brain cells and neurons for overall brain function
- Regulates activities related to brain plasticity and helps support memory
- Provides protective activity against brain degeneration and cognitive decline
Lion's Mane stands out among over 2,000 mushroom species used in food and herbalism as the most evidence-backed for improving brain health.
Research on Lion's Mane has shown promise for:
Cognitive Impairment
Clinical trials have suggested nootropic mushroom supplements with Lion's Mane may improve mild cognitive impairment. In one study involving individuals aged 50-80 with cognitive impairment, researchers reported significant mental performance improvements in those taking Lion's Mane.
Notably, after the study subjects stopped taking Lion's Mane mushroom nootropic dietary supplements, their cognitive improvements stopped. Researchers concluded, "Yamabushitake [Lion's Mane] is effective in improving mild cognitive impairment."(5)
Depression and Anxiety
Lion's mane may modulate inflammation and influence neurotransmitters, which, combined with its NGF-enhancing properties, has been suggested to help with depression and anxiety.
In a study involving 30 women age 40+, some were given mushroom supplements (cookies) with Lion's Mane while others received a placebo for four weeks. The researchers assessed their cognitive and mental health, including depression, anxiety, concentration, sleep quality and menopausal symptoms.
The results showed that Lion's Mane mushroom led to significant improvements in menopausal symptoms, depression, and indefinite complaints. It also showed potential benefits for concentration and anxiety, although these improvements were not statistically significant.(6)
General Nerve and Brain Health
The two above studies represent the primary human clinical trials backing lion's mane as a mushroom nootropic. However, animal research suggests Lion's Mane may offer additional brain benefits for:
- Post-Injury Recovery: NGF is vital for brain health maintenance and recovery. Lion's Mane has shown potential in reducing recovery time and enhancing nerve regeneration in animal studies.(7)
- Brain Plasticity and Memory: Lion's Mane supports brain plasticity, the ability of the brain to reorganize and form new connections, which is essential for learning and adapting to new experiences. Researchers have linked it to significant improvements in recognition memory.(8)
- Neuroprotective Effects: It is one of the nootropic mushrooms that may help to protect neurons. Researchers in animal study have reported Lion's Mane may support the fatty myelin sheathing that surrounds and protects nerve cells.(9)
In addition, Lion's Mane is safe and well-tolerated as a food source, valued among culinary mushrooms, with no significant side effects reported in studies. This makes it a highly accessible and safe option for individuals looking to enhance their brain health and cognitive functions.
In conclusion, Lion's Mane Mushroom's safety profile and unique support for NGF, brain cell regeneration and various cognitive functions, make it the top mushroom nootropic to look for.
Learn more about Lion's Mane Mushroom
Other mushroom nootropics cannot yet match Lion's Mane Mushroom's body of brain research.
But researchers still suggest some other mushrooms may hold potential to help the brain.
Functional Mushrooms with Nootropic Potential
Lion's mane is a nootropic mushroom that works directly via NGF and brain chemicals. Some other nootropic mushrooms work indirectly. Their bioactive compounds (especially polysaccharides and beta-glucans) have been studied for brain-healthy immune-balancing and antioxidant properties.
Some possible nootropic mushrooms include:
Reishi
Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) is traditionally used to regulate blood glucose levels, protect the liver and more. Mushroom supplements for immune health often feature reishi. Animal study researchers suggest its polysaccharides and antioxidant activity may also boost neurogenesis and assist with cognitive decline related to brain degeneration.(10)
Maitake
Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa), also known as "Hen of the Woods," is an edible mushroom that grows in clusters at the base of oak trees. It is valued for its potential health benefits, including immune support and adaptogenic properties. Animal study have suggested its beneficial compounds called proteo-β-glucan (PGK) polysaccharides may modulate inflammation and help with age-related memory concerns.(11)
Chaga
Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is a type of fungus that grows on birch trees that is widely used in herbalism practices to support immune function, digestion and general vitality. Animal study researchers have suggested chaga may enhance cognitive performance, including higher brain functions like learning and memory.(12)
Cordyceps
Fungus Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) may be useful to athletes and those seeking a cognitive boost. Cordyceps mushrooms work by enhancing oxygen utilization, improving blood circulation and regulating immune responses -- all of which promote brain function, mental clarity, performance and other cognitive health benefits. One of the best adaptogenic mushrooms, cordyceps may also strengthen cognition against stress.(13)
Shiitake
Shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) is a type of edible fungus known for its savory flavor. In Traditional Chinese Medicine herbalism practices, shiitake mushrooms are valued for their potential health benefits, including immune and cardiovascular system support, attributed to compounds like beta-glucans and polysaccharides.(14)
Turkey Tail
There is little direct scientific evidence to support the use of turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) as a mushroom supplement for the brain. However, researchers have proposed it may help to regulate immune responses.(15) Healthy, balanced immune responses contribute to long-range brain wellness.
Incorporating mushrooms into your nootropic regimen is easier than ever. Fresh mushrooms with nootropic properties can often be consumed as foods. Functional mushrooms are also widely available in herbal supplements and even in new coffee-related nootropic mushroom products.
When it comes to nootropic mushrooms to look for in brain supplements, Lion's Mane is number one. The best Lion's Mane supplement that supplies it is Mind Lab Pro.
Best Nootropic Mushroom Supplement: Mind Lab Pro®
Mind Lab Pro® (MLP®) supplies 500 mg of Lion's Mane extract (a good dosage to look for) from premium organic mushrooms. It is taken from the preferred fruiting bodies (rather than the mycelium "roots" used in many nootropic mushrooms products) and includes the mushroom's most sought-after active compounds: hericenones and erinacines.
Premium-quality full-spectrum Lion's Mane Mushroom extract is just one brain-boosting ingredient in Mind Lab Pro®. The full MLP® formula is a complete nootropics regimen in a capsule:
- Citicoline 250 mg - Natural brain energizer and regenerative tonic (learn more)
- Phosphatidylserine, 100 mg - Made from sunflower; best nootropic for memory (learn more)
- Bacopa monnieri, 150 mg - Helps stress resistance, clarity and new learning (learn more)
- Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom extract, 500 mg - (learn more)
- Rhodiola rosea, 50 mg - Fights stress, boosts cognition. Considered a legal performance enhancer (learn more)
- L-Theanine, 100 mg - one of the top nootropic amino acids, for feelings of relaxed alertness (learn more)
- N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine, 175 mg - Ultimate nootropic for performing under stress (learn more)
- Maritime Pine Bark Extract, 75 mg - Potent antioxidant properties energize and protect (learn more)
- Vitamins B6 2.5 mg, B9 100 mcg, B12 7.5 mcg (all as NutriGenesis®) - Key essentials for brain health and nerve health
Universal Nootropic Design
MLP® is designed as a whole-brain booster that enhances all aspects of cognition while supporting brain function. Thanks to its far-reaching formula, it can support the following brain benefits:
- Improved attention, concentration and focus; great for productivity
- All types of memory: short-term, long-range, learning, quick recall
- Mental energy. Revitalizing cell vitality boost without stimulation or side effects
- Stress resistance; enhanced performance under chaos and multitasking
- Overall mental clarity and fast processing speed
- Bright, balanced mood plus a calm and relaxed outlook
Lion's Mane Mushroom contributes its unique nootropic properties to MLP®'s mood effects, cognitive enhancement benefits and more.
Mind Lab Pro® is Backed by Clinical Research.
In one study, researchers reported that subjects taking Mind Lab Pro experienced improvements in information processing tasks involving simple reaction time (SRT), choice reaction time (CRT) and anticipation.(1)
A second study linked Mind Lab Pro to improvements across all memory functions tested, including auditory, visual, visual working, immediate and delayed recall memory.(2)
Mind Lab Pro® is Top Quality.
Mind Lab Pro is the highest quality mushroom supplement available. It applies that same standard of quality to all its ingredients: using only science backed nootropics in premium, easy-to-absorb forms. Even its capsules are top-shelf: Premium vegan NutriCaps®, which are made of plant-based pullulan naturally fermented from tapioca.
MLP has no GMO, no gluten, no preservatives, no artificial colors, no synthetic additives, no soy and no caffeine. In addition to being the best mushroom nootropic product, it's the cleanest nootropic stack on the market today. Designed to boost cognitive function and your overall well-being.
Conclusion
If you've been wondering, "are mushrooms nootropics?" Now you have your answer. While there are several mushrooms that boos the brain, Lion's Mane stands out as the most remarkable and promising contender for supporting brain and nerve health.
Its unique active compounds possess unique potential to enhance cognitive function, promote nerve growth and repair, and support overall brain health makes it a top choice for those seeking natural brain boosting benefits.
Of all the nootropic mushroom supplements and other mushroom products on the market today, Mind Lab Pro is ranked number one.
It supplies 500 mg of Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom, but also supports it with 10 other nootropics that promote cognitive health holistically -- complementing Lion's Mane and unleashing a "100% Brainpower" boost while also working to support brain health overall.
Scientific References
- Utley A, Gonzalez Y, Imboden CA. The Efficacy of A Nootropic Supplement on Information Processing in Adults: A Double Blind, Placebo Controlled Study. Biomed J Sci & Tech Res 49(1)-2023. BJSTR. MS.ID.007746
- Abbott-Imboden C., Gonzalez Y., Utley A. (2023). Efficacy of the nootropic supplement Mind Lab Pro on memory in adults: Double blind, placebo-controlled study. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, e2872.
- Łysakowska P, Sobota A, Wirkijowska A. Medicinal Mushrooms: Their Bioactive Components, Nutritional Value and Application in Functional Food Production-A Review. Molecules. 2023 Jul 14;28(14):5393. doi: 10.3390/molecules28145393. PMID: 37513265; PMCID: PMC10384337.
- Lai PL, Naidu M, Sabaratnam V, Wong KH, David RP, Kuppusamy UR, Abdullah N, Malek SN. Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2013;15(6):539-54. doi: 10.1615/intjmedmushr.v15.i6.30. PMID: 24266378.
- Mori K, et al. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2009 Mar;23(3):367-72. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2634
- Mayumi N, Shimizu K, Kondo R, Hayashi C, Sato D, Kitagawa K, & Ohnuki K 2010, Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomedical Research . 31(4): 231-237
- Wong KH, et al. Neuroregenerative potential of lion's mane mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. (higher Basidiomycetes), in the treatment of peripheral nerve injury (review). Int J Med Mushrooms. 2012;14(5):427-46.
- Brandalise F, Cesaroni V, Gregori A, Repetti M, Romano C, Orrù G, Botta L, Girometta C, Guglielminetti ML, Savino E, Rossi P. Dietary Supplementation of Hericium erinaceus Increases Mossy Fiber-CA3 Hippocampal Neurotransmission and Recognition Memory in Wild-Type Mice. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017;2017:3864340. doi: 10.1155/2017/3864340. Epub 2017 Jan 1. PMID: 28115973; PMCID: PMC5237458.
- Kolotushkina EV, Moldavan MG, Voronin KY, Skibo GG. The influence of Hericium erinaceus extract on myelination process in vitro. Fiziol Zh (1994). 2003;49(1):38-45. PMID: 12675022.
- Huang S, Mao J, Ding K, Zhou Y, Zeng X, Yang W, Wang P, Zhao C, Yao J, Xia P, Pei G. Polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum Promote Cognitive Function and Neural Progenitor Proliferation in Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Stem Cell Reports. 2017 Jan 10;8(1):84-94. doi: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2016.12.007. PMID: 28076758; PMCID: PMC5233449.
- Bai Y, Chen L, Chen Y, Chen X, Dong Y, Zheng S, Zhang L, Li W, Du J, Li H. A. Maitake (Grifola frondosa) polysaccharide ameliorates Alzheimer's disease-like pathology and cognitive impairments by enhancing microglial amyloid-β clearance. RSC Adv. 2019 Nov 13;9(64):37127-37135. doi: 10.1039/c9ra08245j. PMID: 35542273; PMCID: PMC9075749.
- Giridharan VV, Thandavarayan RA, Konishi T. Amelioration of scopolamine induced cognitive dysfunction and oxidative stress by Inonotus obliquus - a medicinal mushroom. Food Funct. 2011 Jun;2(6):320-7. doi: 10.1039/c1fo10037h. Epub 2011 Jun 6. PMID: 21779570.
- Jędrejko KJ, Lazur J, Muszyńska B. Cordyceps militaris: An Overview of Its Chemical Constituents in Relation to Biological Activity. Foods. 2021 Oct 30;10(11):2634. doi: 10.3390/foods10112634. PMID: 34828915; PMCID: PMC8622900.
- Pan W, Jiang P, Zhao J, Shi H, Zhang P, Yang X, Biazik J, Hu M, Hua H, Ge X, Huang XF, Yu Y. β-Glucan from Lentinula edodes prevents cognitive impairments in high-fat diet-induced obese mice: involvement of colon-brain axis. J Transl Med. 2021 Feb 4;19(1):54. doi: 10.1186/s12967-021-02724-6. PMID: 33541370; PMCID: PMC7863530.
- Benson KF, Stamets P, Davis R, Nally R, Taylor A, Slater S, Jensen GS. The mycelium of the Trametes versicolor (Turkey tail) mushroom and its fermented substrate each show potent and complementary immune activating properties in vitro. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2019 Dec 2;19(1):342. doi: 10.1186/s12906-019-2681-7. PMID: 31791317; PMCID: PMC6889544.
