Lion's Mane for Healthy Ageing

TL;DR
Lion’s Mane shows early signals for supporting cognitive resilience with age through NGF-related mechanisms. Current human evidence is limited to small studies. It remains a promising but emerging option for healthy ageing — larger trials are needed.

Evidence Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ Promising (Emerging)
(Limited human data in older adults; mechanistic support exists.)

What the Research Shows for Healthy Ageing

As we age, maintaining nerve health and cognitive function becomes increasingly important. Lion’s Mane compounds have demonstrated the ability to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) in laboratory settings, which is relevant to long-term brain health and resilience.

The main human evidence comes from the Mori et al. (2009) study on mild cognitive impairment in older adults. While results were positive during the 16-week supplementation period, the study was small and benefits declined after stopping intake.

Key Studies

  • Mori, K. et al. (2009). “Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.” Phytotherapy Research, 23(3), 367–372. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.2634
  • Li, I.C. et al. (2018). “Neurohealth Properties of Hericium erinaceus Mycelia Enriched with Erinacines.” Behavioural Neurology. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/5802634 — Note: Positive signals observed with erinacine-enriched extracts.
  • Contato, A.G. & Conte-Junior, C.A. (2025). Narrative review on Lion’s Mane neuroprotective potential. Nutrients. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17081307

Expert View

Experts including Dr. Andrew Huberman and Paul Stamets have highlighted Lion’s Mane for its potential nerve-supporting properties. Dr. Dale Bredesen has referenced it within broader longevity and brain health protocols. All stress that current evidence is still early-stage.

This is not medical advice. BioHackNZ provides general information based on published research. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen. Individual results vary.

Last updated: 18 May 2026 | BioHackNZ Research Team

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