Does Lion’s Mane Mushroom Make You Sleepy?

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a unique functional mushroom known for its shaggy appearance and remarkable benefits for brain health. Traditionally used in East Asian herbalism, Lion’s Mane has become a red-hot supplement in recent years thanks to growing research showing it may support memory, focus, mood, and nerve regeneration. It is now considered one of the in the best nootropics on the market today.

As Lion’s Mane popularity continues to rise, more people are sharing their experiences. While many report improvements, there have also been reports of an unexpected side effect: Sleepiness. In this article, we’ll explore this potential reaction, look at what the research says, and help you understand why Lion’s Mane might make some people feel sleepy instead of energized. Let's get to it!

• Lion’s Mane is a popular functional mushroom known for its brain-boosting effects, especially on memory, focus, and mood.
• Most people report enhanced mental clarity and energy, but some users experience unexpected drowsiness or fatigue.
• This sleepy effect may be due to Lion’s Mane’s impact on the nervous system and inflammation, creating a calming, restorative effect in certain individuals.
• Sleepiness might also stem from the mushroom's support for nerve regeneration, which can temporarily tax the body as it recovers.
• Dose and timing matter—some users report fewer sleepy effects when taking Lion’s Mane in the morning rather than at night.
• Everyone reacts differently to functional mushrooms; if Lion’s Mane makes you tired, consider adjusting dosage or switching to nighttime use.
• Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you're sensitive to calming or sedating compounds.

What is Lion's Mane Mushroom, and What does it Do?

Lion’s Mane, also known as Yamabushitake, is a dietary mushroom that can be consumed in raw form or taken as a supplement. It is also a common ingredient in the best nootropics on the market today.

It's long been used in traditional Chinese medicine, as it is known to have a number of health benefits, including cognitive enhancement and anti-inflammatory properties¹.

In this article, we will answer all your burning questions on lion’s mane such as:

• What are the benefits of taking lion’s mane?
• How should you take lion’s mane?
• Does lion’s mane make you sleepy?
• Are there any side effects to taking lion’s mane?

Read on to find out all you need to know!

Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Many of the findings on lion’s mane stem from animal-based research and small clinical trials, though the studies so far appear to be promising!

Here are some of the potential health benefits of lion’s mane:

• Cognitive function

Studies show that lion’s mane can enhance cognitive function and reduce cognitive decline in older individuals, particularly by stimulating the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF), which in turn promotes overall brain health.

These findings might support the idea that lion’s mane may be beneficial to those suffering with diseases such as Alzheimer’s, though further human studies are needed to confirm this.

• Anti-inflammatory

Chronic inflammation is believed to be the root cause of many chronic illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. Lion’s mane is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce the impact of these conditions.

• Protect against digestive ulcers

An in vitro study has shown that lion’s mane reduces the growth of H. pylori, a bacteria that can be one of the causing factors of stomach ulcers if it overgrows. Therefore, lion’s mane may help protect the stomach lining from ulcers!²

• Anti-depressant and anxiolytic properties

Some studies have suggested lion’s mane may help ease mild symptoms of anxiety and depression. Significant improvements in anxiety and concentration were noted upon the consumption of lion’s mane mushroom, as well as possible improvements in sleep quality³.

Reducing anxiety and stress is usually one of the best ways to promote sleep quality. Many people struggle to get to sleep at night because that is when their anxiety becomes most acute. By reducing anxiety, lion's mane mushroom can help you get a better night's sleep, thus making you less sleepy the following day.

• Reduction in menopausal symptoms

In one study, menopausal women found that the daily consumption of lion’s mane for one month helped reduce feelings of irritation and anxiety associated with menopause⁴.

Many women find that their sleep quality gets completely ruined during menopause; they wake up early, struggle to get to sleep at night, and spend hours tossing and turning. By reducing menopausal symptoms, Lion's Mane Mushroom can help improve sleep quality.

How to take Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion’s mane can be consumed in many forms, such as raw, cooked, or as a tea or supplement - we, of course, would recommend our Mind Lab Pro supplement!

As there are limited human studies, the optimal dose isn’t confirmed. However, it appears that 1,000mg thrice daily (total 3g of lion’s mane extract per day) is an effective dose⁵.

Does Lion’s Mane Mushroom make you sleepy?

There is some very promising research emerging on the health benefits of lion’s mane, but does it make you sleepy? And are there any other side effects?

In short - no, lion’s mane mushroom will not make you sleepy. However, due to the noted benefits on anti-anxiety and possible improvements in sleep quality, it may be a good idea to take lion’s mane before bedtime as part of your unwinding routine!

Side effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroom

As research is still in the preliminary stages, it’s not known what the long-term effects of lion's mane supplementation are. Though there have been no reported side effects so far.

That being said, there have been some reports of allergy-related symptoms after consumption of lion’s mane, so it’s important to ensure you’re not allergic to mushrooms before taking it.

As always, consult your doctor before taking any new supplement!