The Best Mushroom for Anxiety and Depression

Searching for natural ways to ease anxiety, lift your mood, and feel more like yourself again? You may want to consider mood-supportive supplements, including from traditional herbs like mushrooms.

As everyday stressors pile up, more and more people are turning to natural strategies for mood health that work with the mind and body, not against it. Among these, mushrooms have quietly risen to the top -- offering gentle, holistic support that nourishes health in ways modern science is now just beginning to understand.

But with so many mushrooms to choose from, which one truly stands out for anxiety and depression? In this article, we’ll explore how mushrooms' centuries-old uses for emotional wellness and reveal why one remarkable fungus -- Lion’s Mane Mushroom -- is now earning its place as the best mushroom for anxiety and depression support. Ready to discover fungi-powered nutrition for resilience and calmness? Let's get to it!

Understanding Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are more than just clinical terms. They are deeply personal struggles that touch millions of lives.

Anxiety can feel like an endless loop of worry, restlessness, and unease that occupies your brainpower and disrupts your peace of mind. Major depression disorder can feel like a heavy fog that drains energy, joy, and motivation from daily life.

Both conditions can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming, leaving people searching for relief that truly helps them feel like themselves again.

For many, finding help can be frustrating. Conventional approaches don’t always work for everyone, or they may come with side effects that add to the struggle. That may be one reason why so many people are turning to natural supplements and lifestyle practices to raise their mood.

Mushroom and nootropic supplements offer an accessible, affordable, and gentle way to get mood and mental wellness back on track.

High-quality, research-backed options are available, and when used mindfully, these natural supports can provide assistance for anxious and depressive behaviors -- helping to calm the mind, lift mood, and support emotional resilience with minimal side effects. For many, certain mushrooms not only work, but are sustainable.

Learn more about today's top supplements for anxiety and best nootropics for depression.

Mushrooms: Cornerstones of Traditional Herbalism

Mushrooms have played a vital role in traditional herbal systems for thousands of years, valued not only as food but as powerful tools for promoting health and longevity. From the ancient forests of China and Japan to the woods of Siberia and Europe, healers and shamans have turned to fungi for their remarkable ability to restore inner balance and overall vitality.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and Indigenous folk herbalism, mushrooms have long been regarded as tonics that nourish mind and body holistically.

Ancient traditions emphasized mushrooms for immunity, lung health, endurance, heart and liver protection, and general vitality as life force (qi). Mushrooms' profound effects on the mind have also been noted in herbal traditions, often via spiritual and energetic pathways.

For example, Reishi was revered as a "spirit tonic" to calm the heart and promote emotional equilibrium. Cordyceps was given to those recovering from fatigue and weakness to restore life force and mental clarity. And Chaga was brewed into fortifying teas to help people endure the long winters, protecting both body and spirit.

Nootropic Mushrooms: An Emerging Frontier

Today, as modern herbalists and researchers look more deeply at these ancient herbs, a new focus has emerged: the nootropic (brain-boosting) potential of mushrooms.

Nootropic mushrooms are those that not only support general brain health but also enhance various cognitive functions -- boosting memory, focus, mental energy, and, importantly to our current topic, mood.

While the term nootropic is relatively new, the idea of using mushrooms to sharpen the mind and soothe emotions is deeply rooted in tradition. Buddhist monks, for example, consumed certain mushrooms before meditation to help with clarity of thought and serenity of spirit.

Learn more about nootropic mushrooms

As interest in brain health grows, mushrooms have become a natural focal point for those seeking holistic ways to support mental well-being.

The connection between brain and mood is clear: by nourishing one, we uplift the other.

There are several mushrooms worth exploring for their mood-supportive and cognitive benefits, including Reishi, Cordyceps and Chaga.

But without a doubt, Lion’s Mane shines as the best mushroom for anxiety and depression. Its unique ability to support nerve growth, enhance neuroplasticity, and promote a bright mood makes it an appealing option for those navigating modern stress and mood challenges. Let's take a closer look.

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): The Best Mushroom for Anxiety and Depression

Lion’s Mane, known as "Hou Tou Gu" in China and "Yamabushitake" in Japan, has a long history spanning centuries as both a food and a tonic herb for the mind and spirit. It grows in dense clusters of white tendrils on hardwoods like oak, beech, and maple in forests across North America, Europe, and Asia.

Appearance, Taste and Culinary Use

• Appearance: A large, white, pom‑pom–like mushroom with hanging spines (1–6 cm).
• Taste: Mild, sweet, and seafood-like. Often likened to crab or lobster. Delicious!
• Use: Eaten fresh, sautéed, added to soups and stews, or brewed into tea; also available as powders, capsules, or dual extracts.

Mechanisms of Brain and Mood Support

Lion’s Mane is rich in bioactive compounds: hericenones (from fruiting bodies) and erinacines (from mycelium). These compounds stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The biggest buzz about Lion's Mane as a nootropic and potential mood-optimizer seems to center on its NGF benefits.

Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Lion’s Mane

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is like fertilizer for your brain’s nerve cells. It helps neurons to grow, thrive, and stay strong. Along with BDNF, NGF is essential for functions like memory, learning, and keeping your mind sharp. So, why is NGF so important for your brain?

• Neural regeneration: NGF helps repair neurons damaged by aging, stress, or injury, supporting the creation of new brain cells (neurogenesis) and nervous system health.
• Neuroplasticity: It fuels your brain’s ability to form new connections, helping you learn, remember, and adapt to new experiences throughout life.
• Better communication: NGF strengthens the signals between neurons, powering everything from simple sensory responses to complex thinking.
• Brain cell renewal: Healthy NGF levels encourage the replacement of old or damaged neurons, helping keep your mind sharp as you age.
• Protection: NGF shields neurons from damage caused by inflammation, oxidative stress, and other harmful factors, thereby supporting healthy brain aging.

Low NGF levels are associated with a range of brain challenges, including:

• Memory struggles: Trouble forming new memories or recalling old ones, which can affect daily life.
• Mood issues: Since NGF helps balance mood-regulating neurotransmitters, low levels can contribute to persistent sadness or trouble maintaining a positive outlook.
• Age-related decline: Lower NGF levels are linked to mild cognitive impairment (MCI), an early warning sign of more serious neurodegenerative conditions. Low NGF has also been linked to mild Alzheimer's disease symptoms.(1)

NGF and Mood Health

NGF isn’t just about memory and learning. It also plays a crucial role in mood regulation. By supporting the growth, repair, and connectivity of neurons, NGF helps maintain healthy communication between brain regions that control emotional balance. Stronger neural networks mean better resilience to stress, more stable mood, and a greater ability to adapt to life’s challenges.

When NGF levels are low, the brain's ability to regulate mood-related neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine may falter, contributing to feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emotional fatigue. This is why boosting NGF through natural support like Lion’s Mane mushroom is gaining attention as a promising way to promote both cognitive and emotional well-being.

Learn about nootropics for dopamine

Next up, let's look at some of the clinical research that demonstrates how Lion's Mane Mushroom may help to support a bright and calm mood.

Lion's Mane may Help Anxiety and Depression in Menopausal Women

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, researchers investigated the effects of Lion’s Mane on mood in 30 menopausal women experiencing mild anxiety and depression. The women were randomly assigned to consume either Lion’s Mane-enriched cookies (containing 2 grams of powdered fruiting body) or placebo cookies daily for 4 weeks. After mental health testing that measured anxiety and depression, results showed that women in the Lion’s Mane group had significantly lower scores for both anxiety and depression compared to the placebo group by the end of the study. Researchers suggested Lion’s Mane may provide mood-stabilizing effects that may be attributed to its nerve growth factor benefits.(2)

Learn about adaptogen herbs for perimenopause and menopause

Lion's Mane + Healthy Diet may Improve Mood in Overweight Adults

A randomized controlled trial evaluated the impact of Lion’s Mane on mood, sleep, and neuroplasticity markers in overweight and obese adults. Subjects received 550 mg/day of Lion’s Mane extract alongside a low-calorie diet for 8 weeks. They were then tested for depression and anxiety scores, sleep quality, and blood levels of pro-brain-derived neurotrophic factor (proBDNF), a key molecule in neuroplasticity. The Lion’s Mane group showed significant improvements in mood and sleep compared to placebo, and their proBDNF levels increased, suggesting enhanced neuroplasticity. Researchers reported that Lion’s Mane may be beneficial as part of lifestyle changes for improving mood and cognitive health.(3)

Lion's Mane may Enhance Mood in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment

In a small pilot study, older adults with mild cognitive impairment were given Lion’s Mane tablets (containing 1,000 mg fruiting body powder) three times a day for 16 weeks. The study evaluated cognitive function using the Revised Hasegawa Dementia Scale (HDS-R) and tracked mood changes. Researchers noted significant improvements in cognitive scores in the Lion’s Mane group compared to placebo. Subjects in the Lion's Mane group also reported better mood and reduced irritability. When supplementation stopped, the benefits gradually diminished. Researchers said Lion’s Mane's NGF support may be responsible for the benefits shown in this study.(4)

Animal Studies

A variety of animal studies have demonstrated that Lion’s Mane extracts promote nerve growth factor (NGF) expression, reduce markers of oxidative stress, and normalize levels of key neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. In rodent models of chronic stress and depression, Lion’s Mane reduced depressive-like behaviors and improved cognitive performance. These findings support the idea that Lion’s Mane acts through neurotrophic and anti-inflammatory pathways to promote mood stability and stress resilience.(5)

Lion's Mane Supplement Forms and Dosage

• Dual extract (fruiting body + mycelium): 500–1,800 mg daily
• Fruiting body powder: 1,000–3,000 mg daily
• Capsules/tablets: 250–600 mg 2–3× per day, or 1.8 g once daily
• Tincture: 2–4 mL, 1–2× daily

Learn more about Lion's Mane Dosage

Lion’s Mane stands out among mushrooms for its good scientific evidence in supporting mood. With its unique brain-beneficial actions and long history of use as a spiritual tonic, it offers a gentle, well-rounded approach for emotional and mental well-being.

Additional Top Mushrooms for Mood Support

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Reishi is known as “Lingzhi” in ancient Chinese texts and the “Mushroom of Immortality” in Japan. It has held a place of honor in herbal traditions for over 2,000 years. This striking, lacquered red-brown mushroom grows on hardwood trees and was once so prized that it was reserved for emperors and spiritual seekers.

In Shennong’s Materia Medica (one of the earliest Chinese texts on herbalism), Reishi was noted for calming the spirit, nourishing the heart, and promoting longevity. Today, Reishi is recognized globally as a leading adaptogen (herb that helps the body adapt to various stressors) that supports emotional balance, stress resilience, and nervous system harmony. Read a full list of adaptogen herbs

What the Research Shows

• Fatigue and anxiety relief: In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, patients receiving endocrine therapy who took Reishi spore powder for 4 weeks reported significant reductions in fatigue, anxiety, and depression, alongside improved markers of immune health.(6)
  
• Mood support: A double-blind trial of 132 patients found Reishi polysaccharide extract (Ganopoly) significantly improved symptoms of fatigue, weakness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating over 8 weeks compared to placebo.(7)
  

GABA and Reishi

GABA is a neurotransmitter strongly associated with mood. Reishi’s calming effect is believed to work in part through the GABAergic system. Some research suggests reishi mushroom may enhance GABA receptor activity, promoting relaxation, improving sleep, and helping to alleviate anxiety without sedation. Learn more about how to increase GABA naturally

Supplement Forms and Dosage

• Standardized extract (polysaccharides or triterpenes): 500–1,500 mg daily
• Spore powder: 1,000–3,000 mg daily
• Tincture dietary supplements: 2–4 mL up to twice daily
• Tea (from dried slices): 5–10 grams simmered for 30–60 minutes

Reishi’s long legacy as a spirit tonic now aligns with modern research supporting its role in reducing anxiety, fatigue, and depressive symptoms. By balancing cortisol, modulating GABA pathways, and dampening inflammation, Reishi may offer positive effects for emotional wellness.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris / sinensis)

Cordyceps has a rich history in Traditional Chinese and Tibetan herbalism, where it was prized for promoting stamina, vitality, and balanced energy, especially in those recovering from illness or facing high physical demands.

Traditionally collected from high-altitude regions where it grew as a parasite on caterpillar larvae, Cordyceps became legendary among herders who noticed their animals thrived after grazing in Cordyceps-rich pastures. Today, cultivated varieties like Cordyceps militaris are widely produced and used without any caterpillar carcasses involved.

Modern science suggests Cordyceps is an adaptogen that may support mental and emotional balance through its effects on energy metabolism, oxygen utilization, and stress hormone regulation.

What the Research Shows

• Anti-fatigue and mood support in healthy adults: A randomized controlled trial of healthy adults found that 3 weeks of Cordyceps supplementation improved fatigue resistance and mood scores, with subjects reporting better tolerance to stress and improved mental energy.(8)
  
• Enhanced resilience under physical and mental stress: A 2016 meta-analysis of clinical trials showed Cordyceps significantly improved VO2 max and reduced subjective fatigue, indirectly supporting mood through reduced stress burden and better recovery.(9)
• Cortisol modulation and emotional balance: Animal studies suggest that Cordyceps may reduce high cortisol levels caused by chronic stress and support serotonin and dopamine balance, suggesting anti-anxiety and mood-stabilizing potential.
  

Supplement Forms and Dosage

• Standardized extract (Cordyceps militaris or sinensis): 1,000–3,000 mg daily
• Tincture: 2–4 mL up to twice daily
• Powder (whole mycelium or fruiting body): 1,500–3,000 mg daily

Cordyceps offers unique adaptogenic support for anxiety and depression by enhancing energy, reducing stress-related fatigue, and balancing stress hormone levels. By supporting both the physical and mental sides of resilience, Cordyceps helps the body and mind better cope with daily challenges.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Chaga has been used for centuries in Siberian, Russian, and Nordic folk medicine as a powerful tonic to promote endurance, vitality, and resistance to harsh environments.

Unlike many mushrooms, Chaga grows as a dense black mass (sclerotium) on birch trees, where it concentrates betulin, polyphenols, and other bioactive compounds from its host.

Traditionally brewed as a tea known as “Birch Tea,” Chaga was consumed to strengthen the body during long winters and stressful times. Modern research suggests its adaptogenic properties come from its potent antioxidant and immune-balancing actions, which may help ease the negative physical effects of chronic stress and support mood health.

What the Research Shows

• Oxidative stress reduction and mood resilience: A randomized controlled trial found that 8 weeks of Chaga extract significantly improved antioxidant markers and soothed inflammation in healthy adults, factors linked to mood and stress resistance.(10)
  
• Neuroprotective and anti-fatigue effects: Animal research suggests that Chaga’s polysaccharides and polyphenols protect brain tissue from oxidative damage, reduce fatigue-related behaviors, and may indirectly support emotional balance under stress.

Supplement Forms and Dosage

• Dual extract (alcohol + hot water): 500–1,500 mg daily
• Powder (for tea): 2,000–3,000 mg (about 1–2 teaspoons) simmered daily
• Tincture: 2–4 mL up to twice daily

While not a classic mood adaptogen, Chaga offers powerful support against the oxidative and inflammatory stressors that contribute to anxiety and depression. Its traditional role as a vitality tonic aligns with modern research showing benefits for stress resilience and overall well-being.

Other Supplements to Help Anxiety and Depression

Beyond medicinal mushrooms, a variety of natural supplements have shown promise in supporting mood, calming anxiety, and enhancing emotional wellness. These supplements, which include brain-boosting nootropics, work in a variety of ways -- from balancing neurotransmitters and hormones to protecting the brain from oxidative stress. Below are some of the most researched options, with details on how they work and what the science says.

Saffron (Crocus sativus)

Saffron, the prized golden-red spice, has been used for centuries in traditional Persian and Mediterranean herbalism for its mood-lifting effects. Modern research suggests that saffron’s active compounds, including crocin and safranal, may enhance serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels in the brain -- neurotransmitters crucial for regulating mood.(12) Saffron also provides antioxidant and inflammation-regulating activity, which may help buffer the brain from stress-related damage.

L-Theanine

L-Theanine is a calming amino acid naturally found in green tea. It promotes relaxation without sedation by settling the central nervous system while increasing alpha brain wave activity: a state known as "wakeful relaxation" that's associated with productivity and creativity. L-Theanine also crosses the blood-brain barrier to support GABA, dopamine, and serotonin production on-site, helping to balance mood and reduce stress. Studies show it can ease symptoms of anxiety, improve sleep quality, and enhance focus, making it an attractive option for people dealing with tension or racing thoughts.(13)

Learn more about L-Theanine

Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of biochemical processes, including nerve transmission and stress hormone regulation. It helps regulate the HPA axis and supports GABAergic function, contributing to its calming effect on the nervous system. Low magnesium levels are commonly found in people with anxiety and depression. Supplementation can help ease muscle tension, promote better sleep, and reduce stress reactivity. Several studies suggest magnesium is especially useful for people with mild to moderate anxiety or those with magnesium deficiency.(14)

Learn about today's top magnesium dietary supplement

Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a key role in brain health and mood regulation, thanks to the presence of vitamin D receptors in key brain areas like the hippocampus. Deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety, possibly through its role in regulating inflammation, neuroplasticity, and neurotransmitter function. Supplementing with vitamin D may help restore balance and improve mood, especially in individuals with low vitamin D.(15)

B Vitamins (B6, B9, B12)

B vitamins are essential cofactors in the synthesis of serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters critical for mood regulation. They also help lower homocysteine levels, an amino acid associated with depression when elevated. B6 supports GABA production, B9 (folate) and Vitamin B12 are vital for methylation pathways that influence brain function. Supplementing B vitamins may especially benefit those with deficiency or elevated homocysteine levels, offering improvements in energy, mood, and cognitive clarity.(16)

Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid that helps maintain the structure and function of cell membranes, particularly in the brain. PS is noted for supporting adult neurogenesis, which refers to the brain's ability to create new brain cells. It is known for supporting healthy cortisol rhythms and reducing the effects of chronic stress. PS supplementation has been shown to blunt high cortisol responses and may help improve mood, focus, and cognitive performance in stressful situations.(17) It's popular for supporting mental clarity under pressure and promoting a more balanced stress response.

Learn more about Phosphatidylserine (PS)

Citicoline (CDP-Choline)

Citicoline is a choline donor that boosts levels of acetylcholine and supports phospholipid synthesis for brain cell membranes. It enhances brain energy metabolism, supports attention and focus, and has been shown to improve mood and mental clarity. A clinical study of older adults with vascular cognitive impairment found that daily citicoline supplementation (1,000 mg/day for 9 months) not only improved cognitive performance, but also reduced emotional and behavioral symptoms, including depression. The researchers concluded that citicoline may offer mood-stabilizing benefits, especially in individuals with brain-related conditions.(18)

Learn more about Citicoline

Rhodiola rosea

Rhodiola is a classic adaptogen used for centuries in Russian and Scandinavian herbal medicine to combat fatigue, improve stamina, and support mood. It modulates stress hormone levels, enhances serotonin and dopamine activity, and helps the body better adapt to physical and emotional stress. Research shows Rhodiola can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and burnout, while improving focus and energy.(19)

Learn about Rhodiola Rosea

Bacopa monnieri

Bacopa is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used to enhance memory and calm the mind. It has antioxidant and neuroprotective properties and helps modulate serotonin and dopamine, which are key players in mood regulation. Clinical trials suggest Bacopa can reduce anxiety, ease depressive symptoms, and enhance cognitive function, particularly in older adults.(20)

Learn More about Bacopa Monnieri

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s, especially EPA and DHA from fish oil, play a crucial role in brain health and mood regulation. They support cell membrane fluidity, reduce neuroinflammation, and may help balance neurotransmitters involved in depression and anxiety.(21)

Learn about today's best vegan Omega-3 supplements

Other Natural Ways to Improve Anxiety and Depression

While medicinal mushrooms are gaining popularity for mood support, they are just one part of a broader toolkit of natural strategies. Many holistic approaches work synergistically to help regulate mood, reduce stress, and promote emotional resilience. Here are some of the most promising options, along with supporting research.

Regular Physical Activity

Exercise is one of the most effective natural ways to ease anxiety and lift depression. Physical activity helps balance stress hormones like cortisol, increases feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, and promotes better sleep — all of which support mental health. Whether it’s walking, yoga, or strength training, movement creates a natural antidepressant effect.(22)

Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness practices, including meditation and breathing exercises, help break the cycle of ruminative thoughts that fuel anxiety and depression. These practices encourage present-moment awareness and emotional regulation, reducing reactivity to stress and improving overall mood.(23)

Best Stack Supplement with Lion's Mane Mushroom: Mind Lab Pro®

Mind Lab Pro® Ingredients: Citicoline (CDP Choline) dosage 250mg per serving, Phosphatidylserine (PS) 100mg (from sunflower lecithin), Bacopa monnieri 150mg (24% bacosides), Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom 500mg (fruit and mycelium), Maritime Pine Bark Extract 75mg (95% proanthocyanidins), N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine 175mg, L-Theanine 100mg per serving, Rhodiola rosea 50mg (3% rosavins and 1% salidrosides), NutriGenesis® Vitamin B6 (2.5 mg), Vitamin B9 (100 mcg), Vitamin B12 (7.5 mcg)

Mind Lab Pro® (MLP®) is the best nootropic supplement on the market today. It includes 11 research-backed nootropics, combined to work better together. MLP's ultramodern design boosts multiple brain functions -- clarity, energy, memory, focus and more. It also includes several of the best nootropics for promoting a bright and healthy mood, along with stress resistance and motivation.

MLP includes 500 mg of Lion's Mane Mushroom from Fruit and Mycelium.

Beyond its place as the best supplement with Lion's Mane Mushroom, Mind Lab Pro is also noteworthy because it is backed by three well-designed human clinical trials:

• Study 1: MLP for 30 days was associated with significant improvements (compared to placebo) in information processing speed.(24)
• Study 2: MLP for 30 days was elevated performance across all memory functions tested (versus placebo), especially immediate and delayed recall memory.(25)
• Study 3: MLP for 60 days appeared to help the brain's different regions to work together as a team more efficiently and cohesively.(26)

Read the full story on Mind Lab Pro clinical studies

Summary

Anxiety and depression are complex challenges that touch the lives of millions, often leaving people searching for safe, natural ways to feel calmer, brighter, and more resilient. While no single supplement or strategy is a cure-all, mushrooms like Lion’s Mane offer a promising, research-backed way to support mood, cognitive health, and emotional balance. With their rich history in traditional herbalism and their growing validation in modern science, these fungi serve as gentle allies for the mind and body alike.

Of course, mushrooms and other natural supplements work best as part of a broader plan that includes professional medical care, lifestyle practices, and emotional support. Whether you're looking to ease stress, alleviate occasional anxiety, lift your mood, or simply nourish your brain, Lion’s Mane and its fellow functional mushrooms can be part of a thoughtful, holistic approach to mental well-being.