Lion's Mane Dosage Calculator
A culinary and medicinal mushroom shown to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) synthesis. Studied for memory, focus, mild cognitive impairment, and nerve regeneration.
What is Lion's Mane?
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) contains two families of neuroactive compounds unique to this mushroom: hericenones (from the fruiting body) and erinacines (from the mycelium). Both classes stimulate the synthesis of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) — a protein essential for the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. This NGF-stimulating activity distinguishes Lion's Mane from other cognitive supplements with purely neurotransmitter-based mechanisms. A 2009 double-blind RCT (Mori et al., Phytotherapy Research, PMID 18844328) demonstrated significant improvements in cognitive function scores in adults aged 50–80 with mild cognitive impairment after 16 weeks of 3 g/day dried fruiting body powder, with scores declining after cessation. Benefits build gradually over 4–12 weeks.
How to Take Lion's Mane
**Fruiting body extract (preferred):** 500–1,000 mg of a hot-water or dual-extract standardised to ≥ 25% beta-glucans, taken 1–2 times daily. **Mycelium products** contain erinacines but often include significant grain filler substrate — check that the product specifies mycelium-on-grain percentage. **Whole fruiting body powder:** 3–5 g/day (matching the Mori 2009 trial dose). Quality signal: products certified by third-party labs for beta-glucan content and absence of heavy metals.
Timing Recommendations
Take with meals to improve tolerability. No strict timing requirement — morning dosing is most common to support daytime cognition. Benefits are cumulative, not acute; do not expect same-day effects.
Potential Side Effects & Safety
Generally very well tolerated. Rare reports of skin rash and itching, possibly related to mushroom allergy. GI discomfort is uncommon at standard doses. No known serious adverse effects in human trials to date.
Who should avoid Lion's Mane?
Individuals with mushroom allergies should avoid. Use with caution in those with bleeding disorders or on anticoagulants, as animal data suggests mild antiplatelet activity. Insufficient safety data in pregnancy — avoid.
Best Stacks with Lion's Mane
Lion's Mane + bacopa monnieri + phosphatidylserine forms a comprehensive nootropic stack addressing NGF support, memory consolidation, and cortisol-mediated memory impairment. Pairs well with omega-3 DHA for neuronal membrane support.
Scientific References
All dosage recommendations are grounded in peer-reviewed research.
- 1
- 2Hericium erinaceus: an edible mushroom with medicinal values
Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine · 2017
Lion's Mane Dosage Calculator
Fixed dosage — independent of body weight
Your recommended daily dosage
Formula: 500–1,000 mg extract (≥25% beta-glucans) | or 3,000 mg whole fruiting body powder
Safety notes
- Use fruiting body extract standardised to ≥25% beta-glucans — not all products specify this.
- Avoid if you have a mushroom or mould allergy.
- Benefits are cumulative — allow 4–8 weeks before assessing efficacy.
- Insufficient safety data in pregnancy; avoid during gestation and breastfeeding.
This calculator provides general guidance only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement.