Lion’s Mane is a white, functional mushroom popular for its therapeutic benefits, mainly its nootropic properties. It is said to improve cognitive functions like focus and memory, but can it do all that without putting the mind in a trance, like a psychedelic?
Psychedelics are substances that affect and change mood and perception. They are a subclass of hallucinogenic drugs whose primary effect is to alter mental states, sending the user into a mental trip. For thousands of years, various cultures and spiritual practices have used these substances, but in the past few decades, researchers have taken an interest in studying their potential therapeutic applications. The question is, do Lion’s Mane mushrooms contain any such substances? Let’s dig deeper!
What is Lion’s Mane Mushroom?
As the name suggests, this mushroom resembles lion manes. It is a white shroom growing on trees and logs in temperate regions.
Lion’s mane mushroom has been essential in various traditional Chinese medicines for cognitive impairment, inflammation, and digestive disorders. You can eat them, but finding fresh mushrooms is hard because they are delicate and spoil quickly. So, there are organic mushroom supplements to make life easier.
These supplements pack a variety of wellness benefits—in fact, more so than raw mushrooms. Lion’s Mane mushroom is considered one of the best natural products for focus, and individuals seeking creative boosts love it.
Lion's Mane Compounds
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Polypeptides: These compounds may have neuroprotective effects, promoting brain health and cognitive function.
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Beta-Glucans 1,3 1,6: Research indicates that these polysaccharides may enhance immune function and have anti-inflammatory properties. A study found that beta-glucans can improve immune response, with significant benefits for overall health.
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Polysaccharides: Lion's Mane is rich in polysaccharides, which may help regulate blood sugar levels and support gut health.
- Digestive Enzymes: These enzymes can aid in the digestion of food and enhance nutrient absorption, contributing to overall digestive health.
What Effects Does Lion’s Mane Mushroom Create?
Back to the question—do Lion’s Mane mushrooms contain psychedelic substances? The answer is yes, but it isn’t a psychedelic in a traditional sense. According to some users, it creates a mild euphoric buzz, but it has been observed to produce a variety of neurological and cognitive effects, including:
- Focus
- Clarity of mind
- Memory improvement
- Reduced anxiety symptoms
What Are The Benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom?
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Improved Cognition: One study concluded that consistent mushroom consumption increased cognitive performance in elders.
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Nerve Cell Growth: Research also shows it may promote nerve cell growth, stimulating faster healing. A study found that its consumption also led to faster nerve regeneration in animals with nerve damage.
- Mood Boost: Another study looked into Lion’s Mane’s mood-altering abilities and found that it could reduce the symptoms of anxiety in animal models. A study suggests that this shroom could potentially help treat depressive disorders.
Is Lion's Mane Psychoactive?
While Lion's Mane is not classified as a psychoactive substance, it does affect brain function and mood. Psychoactive substances typically alter perception or consciousness, which Lion's Mane does not do in the same way as classic psychedelics like psilocybin. However, its potential cognitive-enhancing properties may provide a feeling of increased mental clarity and focus.
Psychedelic Properties of Lion’s Mane Mushroom
It may not be a traditional psychedelic, but it has a few compounds that possess psychedelic properties, one of which is ergothioneine. Ergothioneine modulates serotonin receptor activity in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter integral to mood regulation. Most psychedelics target it.
According to researchers, ergothioneine may prove beneficial in managing depression like psilocybin does (psilocybin is the psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms). Other compounds in Lion’s Mane mushrooms are hericenones and erinacines, which have been found to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein integral to the growth and development of neurons. NGF is also believed to be vital to neuroplasticity, the foundation of learning and memory.
But you cannot consider Lion’s Mane mushrooms truly psychedelic because they do not cause psychoactivity like you may think. No hallucinations. But its mild psychedelic properties can promote brain health and balance and boost mood, improving overall wellbeing.
Risks And Side Effects Of Taking Lion's Mane Mushrooms
While Lion's Mane is generally considered safe for most people, some may experience mild side effects, such as:
- Allergic reactions (rare)
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Skin rashes
As with any supplement, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting, especially for those with existing health conditions or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Is Lion's Mane Mushroom Legal?
Lion's Mane is legal in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and most of Europe. It is available in various forms, including whole mushrooms, powders, and capsules. However, it’s crucial to check local regulations as laws may vary by region.
Lion’s Mane Supplement Quality
When choosing Lion's Mane supplements, consider the following:
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Whole vs Extracted: Whole mushrooms provide a broad range of nutrients, while extracts may offer concentrated benefits. Research suggests that extracts can be more effective for certain health benefits.
- Mycelium vs Fruiting Body: The fruiting body (the mushroom itself) typically contains more beneficial compounds than the mycelium (the root system). Look for products that specify the source of the Lion's Mane used.
Bloom with the Shroom: Will Lion’s Mane Make You Trip?
You’re shopping for the best Lion’s Mane supplement, but the thought of mushrooms being psychedelic is confusing you. You need not worry—while this shroom contains mild psychedelic compounds, they contribute to the cognitive and neurological effects, including increased focus and mental clarity, improving memory and learning power, while reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Lion’s Mane won’t take you on a hallucinogenic trip when you stick to the recommended dose. To date, this shroom has not been categorized as a magic mushroom and, instead, retains its position as a medicinal mushroom.
Also, remember that your mushroom experience will depend heavily on the quality of the products you buy. Always choose organic mushroom supplements from reputable brands. Check out our supplement collection and choose from tinctures, gummies, and capsules to suit your needs.
Also Read: Can You Take Turkey Tail and Lion’s Mane Together?
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