Subtotal $0.00
Lion’s mane is an edible mushroom often touted for its medicinal properties, primarily due to its connection to brain health. Erinacines and hericenones are components of this fungus, which are thought to offer protective properties for the brain by guarding against plaques and decreasing the deterioration of brain cells. Hundreds of Lion’s Mane supplements exist today, many of which boast several brain health benefits. This article discusses the use of lion’s mane for ADHD.
Does Lion’s Mane Improve ADHD Focus?
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 effects neuroprotective and neurodegenerative. NGF helps brain neurons grow and stay healthy. It improves cognitive function in older adults, particularly memory and recall. Chemicals, including hericenones, in mushrooms have multiple effects on brain neural networks and improve cognitive functions.
Benefits of using Lion’s Mane for ADHD
Lion’s mane mushrooms, known for their use in traditional Chinese medicine, show promise for managing ADHD symptoms. While human research is still growing, early studies suggest that the lion’s mane may naturally support focus, reduce stress, and boost brain cell growth.
- Supports Brain Cell Growth
Lion’s mane contains hericenones and erinacines, which help brain cells grow. These may improve focus and memory in people with ADHD by boosting brain function and supporting the nerve growth factor (NGF) that helps brain cells stay healthy.
- Helps Reduce Anxiety
People with ADHD often feel anxious or overwhelmed. Lion’s mane has anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects, as seen in studies, possibly by balancing NGF levels. This may help reduce emotional ups and downs and bring more calmness.
- May Improve Mental Performance
Lion’s mane powder helps improve mental speed and focus. For ADHD, this could mean better attention and less mental fog. It works by supporting healthy brain activity without substantial side effects.
- Fights Inflammation Linked to ADHD
Chronic inflammation in the brain may worsen ADHD symptoms. Lion’s mane contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substances that can help protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals, possibly improving long-term brain health.
- Supports Nerve Repair and Brain Connectivity
Lion’s mane mushroom helps with nerve regeneration and may repair brain connections. Unlike some treatments, its compounds can cross the blood-brain barrier, reaching the brain to support new and existing nerve cells.
Lion’s Mane Dosage for ADHD
There is no standard dosage for lion’s mane mushrooms. The safest, most beneficial amount depends on your age and overall health. To improve cognition, some researchers recommend 3 to 5 grams per day. In a 2020 study, people ages 50 and older showed significantly improved cognitive function after taking three 350-mg lion’s mane capsules daily for 49 weeks. Taking three 400-mg capsules daily for 8 weeks helped relieve depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders for 77 people who were overweight or obese, according to a 2019 study.
Side Effects of Using Lion’s Mane for ADHD
Lion’s mane is a popular supplement for focus and memory, often used by people with ADHD. However, before using it, it is essential to understand the possible side effects and how it may interact with other medications or health conditions.
- Digestive Symptoms
Some users have reported nausea, stomach pains, and even skin rashes after taking Lion’s Mane. One clinical trial found that about 12% of study participants had these symptoms and had to stop taking the supplement.
- Allergic Reactions
Lion’s mane is a type of mushroom, so people with a mushroom allergy or sensitivity to its components might experience itching, hives, or even trouble breathing. These signs require quick medical attention.
- Dangerous Drug Interactions
If you are on blood thinners or diabetes medication, Lion’s Mane could cause harmful interactions. It is always best to speak with your doctor before combining it with other medicines, primarily for ADHD.
- During Breastfeeding
No reliable studies show if Lion’s Mane is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is better not to use this supplement during these times to stay safe.
- Blood Clotting
The lion’s mane mushroom may lower blood sugar and slow blood coagulation. This could lead to additional bleeding and disrupt blood sugar regulation both during and after surgery. At least two weeks before a planned surgery, cease taking lion’s mane mushrooms.
Safety Considerations About Using Lion’s Mane for ADHD
A lion’s mane may support focus and memory, but safety has not been confirmed for everyone. Special care is needed before giving it to certain groups. Scientists have not fully tested lion’s mane supplements for people like young kids, expecting mothers, or those feeding babies naturally. Always ask a health professional first.
- Pregnant Women
Pregnancy brings many body changes, and it is unclear how a lion’s mane might react during this time. The mushroom’s effects on unborn babies have not been fully studied. To avoid unexpected results, it is best for expecting moms to skip lion’s mane unless their doctor clearly says it is okay.
- Children
Growing minds are sensitive, and research has not confirmed if a lion’s mane is safe for kids. Young users may react differently, and it is not yet clear how it may affect focus, behavior, or development. Speak with a child’s doctor before offering any brain-related herbal product like lion’s mane.
- People Who Are Nursing
Nursing mothers pass nutrients to their babies through milk. It is still unknown if lion’s mane compounds transfer this way or how they might affect the infant’s brain. To stay safe, avoid taking a lion’s mane while breastfeeding unless a trusted health expert gives specific permission.
