The State of Lion’s Mane Research
The State of Lion's Mane Research
The big picture. ShroomWire is tracking 37 lion's mane studies, each graded A–F for evidence strength. Here’s where the evidence actually stands right now — including how much is still early-stage, what’s preprint, and what’s been retracted.
Evidence strength across what we track
Most of the field is still early — and we think saying so plainly is the point.
Early-signal & integrity watch
- 2 tracked items are preprints (not yet peer-reviewed) — promising but provisional.
- 0 are flagged retracted and are never presented as standing evidence.
Most notable studies right now
- Evaluating the Neurotrophic Mechanisms of Hericium erinaceus in Mood Regulation: Emerging Evidence and Translational Bar — Grade B · Preprint (PsyArXiv)
- Unveiling the role of erinacines in the neuroprotective effects of Hericium erinaceus: a systematic review in preclinica — Grade A · PubMed
- Acute effects of a standardised extract of Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane mushroom) on cognition and mood in healthy yo — Grade B · PubMed
- The Acute and Chronic Effects of Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress and Mood in Young Ad — Grade B · PubMed
- Benefits, side effects, and uses of Hericium erinaceus as a supplement: a systematic review. — Grade A · PubMed
- The Impact of Supplementation With Hericium Erinaceus (Lion's Mane) Extract on Cognitive Functioning — Grade F · ClinicalTrials.gov
- Neuroprotective Potential of <i>Hericium erinaceus</i> Through Modulation of Inflammatory Signaling in THP-1 — Grade D · Europe PMC
- Functional and Nutritional Properties of Lion's Mane Mushrooms in Oat-Based Desserts for Dysphagia and Healthy Ageing. — Grade D · Europe PMC
- Unveiling the glucan profile: a comparative study of Lion's Mane and Shiitake mushrooms. — Grade D · Europe PMC
- Calm Under Challenge: Immune Balancing and Stress Quenching Effects of <em>Hericium erinaceus</em> Mycelium in Human Imm — Grade D · Preprint (Preprints.org)
Methodology: see how we grade the evidence. This is a living snapshot, regenerated regularly from our research database. Explore every study in the Evidence Explorer.
Frequently asked questions
How strong is the evidence on lion's mane?
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What do the A–F evidence grades mean?
## Educational Disclaimer
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not
medical advice, mental health advice, diagnosis, treatment guidance, or a
recommendation to use any substance, supplement, therapy, or protocol.
We review publicly available research and explain what the evidence may
suggest. Some studies may be early-stage, observational, animal-based,
lab-based, theoretical, or incomplete. Always consult a qualified
professional before making health-related decisions.
