Does lion's mane live up to its viral reputation as a brain health superfood?

Used for centuries in Eastern medicine, the mushroom is now considered a “miracle” superfood in the West, especially for cognitive health. But does the research back it up?

Pharmacist Laura Dowling is a mushroom advocate. Picture: Moya Nolan

Lion's mane has long been prescribed for medicinal purposes in China, India, Korea, and Japan, but the mushroom has only recently surged in popularity here.

Wellness enthusiasts on TikTok have flooded the platform with over 58m videos extolling the myriad ways it has helped them. From enhancing cognitive function and supporting nerve health to boosting immunity and improving sleep, lion’s mane is quickly gaining a reputation as a “miracle” supplement.