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What's the Tea on Lion's Mane?
Since my teas and focus are on high tech healing and the wonders of nature (mainly in the form of herbs) it’s very important to mention the fungi kingdom, which is a high tech functioning system. The fungi kingdom is one of nature’s most essential- and least understood- lifeforms. There are a whole range of mushrooms with some basically miraculous effects, while others can be quite toxic. However I would like to first introduce you to the value of this underground network as it globally impacts our food and herbs. The hidden heroes of this kingdom are called mycelium- the intricate underground networks of fungal threads that connect ecosystems like an organic internet. Think of it like a web that connects soil and roots deep, far, and wide. Mycelium wraps around and penetrates plant roots, forming mycorrhizal relationships that help plants absorb water, minerals, and nutrients far more efficiently. In return, plants supply fungi with sugars produced through photosynthesis since fungi do not absorb light from the sun and instead work underground breaking down organic matter. This symbiotic relationship not only enhances the health and resilience of trees and herbs, but it also improves the potency of medicinal plants by optimizing their nutrient uptake and soil environment. In essence, mycelium weaves together entire plant communities, making the fungi kingdom a silent architect of both forest health and herbal vitality.
So knowing this, I will now get into the tea on one of a very well studied mushroom called Lion’s Mane. It is used in our ‘Eye Know’ tea, which if you read last month, is packed with herbs that support brain health, memory, and longevity. Hericium erinaceous has captured the attention of scientists, herbalists, chefs, and everyday wellness seekers around the world!
Deep in the quiet corners of temperate forests (far from the heat of the desert sun, however conveniently grown through Desert Moon Mushrooms) a strange and beautiful fungus clings to the trunks of hardwood trees. It doesn’t look anything like your typical mushroom as it doesn’t sprout a stem or cap like most mushrooms; it’s a globe of silky white spines. Lion’s Mane mushrooms have soft, icicle-like hairs, formed and round, fluffy mass that resembles the mane of a lion, a pop-pom, or even an oddly misplaced white jellyfish. If you look at it hard enough you might see the resemblance of a brain, which quite frankly is its main benefit. Lion’s Mane mushroom is no longer hiding in the woods or in the pages of ancient herbal scrolls. Backed by promising science and supported by centuries of traditional use, this shaggy mushroom is becoming a staple for those seeking ways to sharpen their mind, lift their mood, and protect their health.
Royal and Keen like a Lion
In traditional Chinese medicine, Lion’s Mane was reserved for royalty. It was considered a tonic for the mind and spirit, known for sharpening the senses and calming the heart. Monks brewed into teas, believing it enhanced focus and meditative clarity. Fast forward to today, and the mushroom’s legend is finding new footing in labs and research centers which are confirming its effects on everything from neurodegenerative diseases to anxiety and inflammation.
The power of Lion’s Mane lies in its compounds, particularly hericenones and erinacines. These aren't just fun to try to pronounce; they are biologically significant. Hericenones are found in the fruiting body (the part you see above ground) while erinacines are concentrated in the mycelium (the underground network). Both of these compounds have one remarkable function: they stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a molecule critical for growth, repair, and survival of neurons. This makes Lion’s Mane unique. Most plants of fungi don’t affect NGF, but Lion’s Mane appears to enhance its production in the brain and throughout the nervous system, with some studies showing it to reverse effects from diseases such as Alzeheimers.
Brain Powered Peace
Animal studies have shown it to regenerate damaged nerves, reduce brain inflammation, and even improve memory and learning. A Japanese human study in 2009 published in Phytotherapy Research showed older adults with mild cognitive impairment took Lion’s Mane daily for four months, resulting in cognitive test scores improving significantly. The mushrooms potential as a nootropic and brain-enhancer has made it an integrated mushroom in now every day snacks.
However, the benefits do not stop with just brain health and cognition. In another study, menopausal women who consumed cookies baked with Lion’s Mane reported reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. In animal models, researchers found that erinacine-enriched extract could increase hippocampal neurogenesis, which is the growth of new brain cells in the part of the brain responsible for emotional regulation. Some researchers believe that Lion’s Mane works in part by reducing chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which are factors closely tied to mood disorders, neurodegeneration, and fatigue.
Lion’s Mane has also demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and even antimicrobial activity. Its polysaccharides, especially β-glucans, support immune function and may improve gut health by protecting the stomach lining from ulcers while modulating gut bacteria. Animal studies have also suggested the mushroom can improve lipid metabolism and help regulate blood sugar, hinting at cardiovascular benefits.
Integrate It Into Your Diet
In the wild, Lion’s Mane fruits in humid conditions during late summer and fall, and is more accessible by mushroom growers as it is an absolutely delicious dish for cooking, as well. Fresh Lion’s Mane has a texture and flavor often compared to crab or lobster. Pan-fried with garlic and butter or battered makes it a savory, succulent treat that’s as much about indulgence as it is about health.
For centuries, Lion’s Mane has held a revered place in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, and now the west has confirmed, it’s not just a remedy, but a powerful symbol of vitality and clarity. You can experience the legacy of this extraordinary fungus for yourself, brew it into our rich ‘Eye Know’ nature rich caffeine free herbal tea blend and take in the ancient strength of one of nature’s legendary healers.
To try our Eye Know herbal tea focused on cognitive function and nerve support that features the wonderful Lions Mane mushroom, or any other delicious herbal tea blend, visit us at the Saturday farmers market, or online at www.hightechhealing.org
