Where to Buy Lion's Mane Mushrooms - A Complete Buying Guide

What is Lion's Mane?

Lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) is an edible mushroom native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It gets its name from the long, cascading tendrils that resemble a lion's mane.

Used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine, lion's mane contains bioactive polysaccharides and antioxidants. Research indicates it may offer neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and brain-boosting effects.

In recent years, lion's mane has surged in popularity in the natural health community. It's available as a supplement, tincture, powder, and whole food. But where can you buy it?

Where to Buy Lion's Mane Mushrooms

Here are some of the best places to buy lion's mane mushrooms and products containing this fungi:

Online Supplement Retailers

Many natural health websites sell lion's mane capsules, powders and extracts. Look for products tested for purity and potency. Recommended online retailers include:

• Pure Formulas
• VitaCost
• iHerb
• Life Extension
• Swanson Vitamins

Amazon

Lion's mane supplements are readily available on Amazon. Search for top rated, lab-tested products from reputable brands. Prime members get quick, free delivery.

Specialty Mushroom Producers

Companies specializing in gourmet and medicinal mushrooms often carry lion's mane products. Quality brands include:

• Real Mushrooms
• FreshCap
• Om Mushroom Superfood
• Four Sigmatic

Health Food Stores

Natural grocers and co-ops like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Mom's Organic Market found in many cities carry lion's mane mushrooms. Check the supplement or frozen food aisles.

Farmers Markets

In some locations, freshly grown lion's mane mushrooms can be found at farmers markets and farm stands, especially during fall harvest season. Ask vendors if they offer lion's mane.

Asian Markets

Since lion's mane is used extensively in Chinese cuisine, Asian supermarkets may stock fresh or dried lion's mane mushrooms. Try looking in the produce or dried goods sections.

How to Identify Lion's Mane Mushrooms

To make sure youre getting true lion's mane mushrooms, here are some key identification features:

• Globular, round mass rather than a cap
• Long, shaggy, cascading tendrils
• White color, turning yellowish as it ages
• Grows on hardwood trees
• Size ranges from a softball to basketball
• Neutral, seafood-like aroma

Young specimens have brighter white tendrils. Older ones appear more yellowish-brown. Always verify correct identification if foraging for wild lion's mane.

Types of Lion's Mane Supplements

Lion's mane is available in several supplement forms, each with pros and cons:

Powder

Ground, dried lion's mane mushrooms make an easy to use powder. Add it to smoothies, teas, soups, or baked goods.

Capsules

Lion's mane capsules offer convenience and precise dosing. However, the body doesn't absorb mushroom powders as well as liquid extracts.

Extract

Alcohol or hot water extraction can produce a concentrated lion's mane liquid. Lower doses provide higher potency.

Tincture

Lion's mane tinctures also use an alcohol extraction method. They absorb efficiently under the tongue but have a bitter taste.

Recommended Lion's Mane Dosage

Human studies have used varying dosages of lion's mane mushroom and its extracts. General dosage guidelines are:

• Powder: 1,000 - 3,000 mg per day
• Capsules: 500 - 1,000 mg one to three times daily
• Liquid Extract: 1 mL (30 drops) one or two times per day

Start on the lower end and work up to a higher dosage based on your needs and tolerance. Its best taken with food for optimal absorption.

Where to Buy Fresh Lion's Mane

In addition to supplements, you can also obtain fresh lion's mane mushrooms. Here are some sources to find whole, raw lion's mane:

Online ordering

Specialty mushroom growers sell fresh lion's mane online. Use overnight shipping to prevent spoilage.

Farmer's markets

Some farmers and foragers bring freshly harvested lion's mane to local markets during fall season.

Gourmet grocery stores

Upscale grocers and food shops may stock fresh exotic mushroom varieties including lions mane.

Grow your own

You can purchase lion's mane mushroom spawn plugs and grow kits to cultivate your own batch at home!

How to Cook Fresh Lion's Mane

To prepare fresh lion's mane mushrooms:

• Clean dirt and debris off tendrils
• Slice mushroom into half-inch strips
• Saute, roast or simmer until tender
• Add to soups, stir fries, omelets, pasta, etc.

The mild seafood-like flavor pairs well with chicken, fish, eggs, rice, and creamy dishes. Cook thoroughly until mushrooms reach desired tenderness.

What Does Lion's Mane Taste Like?

When cooked, lion's mane mushrooms have a light seafood taste, akin to crab or lobster meat. The texture is chewy and meaty when fresh but becomes fluffy and tender during cooking.

Supplement forms have little to no flavor. Capsules can be swallowed with water, while powders are easily mixed into foods or smoothies.

Lion's Mane Benefits and Effects

What does the science say about potential lion's mane benefits? Here is a look at the current research:

Supports Brain Function

Compounds like hericenones and erinacines may stimulate growth of brain cells and nerves. Lions mane improved cognition in studies of individuals with mild cognitive impairment.

Protects Against Dementia

Amyloid plaques and neuron damage contribute to Alzheimer's and dementia. Lion's mane reduced plaque formation and neuron loss in rodent models.

Reduces Depression and Anxiety

Lion's mane may help regulate mood and emotional responses. Animal studies found it decreased depression and anxiety-like behaviors.

Enhances Memory

Better neuron health and myelination of nerves may boost memory. Mice performed significantly better on memory tests after ingesting lion's mane.

Lowers Inflammation

Chronic inflammation drives many modern diseases. The anti-inflammatory activity of lion's mane may help protect blood vessels, brain, joints, and more.

May Combat Fatigue

Feeling drained and fatigued? Early evidence shows lions mane may reduce mental and physical exhaustion in sufferers of chronic fatigue.

Protects Against Stroke

By reducing inflammation and oxidative damage, lion's mane may help prevent strokes and mitigate damage if one occurs.

Fights Ulcers

The polysaccharides in lion's mane demonstrated antibacterial effects against H. pylori bacteria that cause stomach ulcers. It may protect gastric lining.

Lion's Mane Side Effects

When used in moderation, lion's mane mushroom is very safe for most people. However, potential side effects can include:

• Digestive upset
• Itchy skin
• Headaches
• Dizziness

Those with shellfish, mushroom or other food allergies should avoid lion's mane. And as with any supplement, discuss using it with your healthcare provider first.

Is Lion's Mane Right for You?

Adding lion's mane mushroom to your wellness routine may offer advantages. It's especially worth considering if you want to:

• Boost brain performance
• Protect cognition as you age
• Reduce inflammation
• Ease anxiety or depression
• Enhance nerve health

Speak with your doctor to determine if trying lion's mane supplements or mushrooms is appropriate based on your health status.

Best Lion's Mane Brands

These reputable brands source high-quality lion's mane mushrooms for their products:

Real Mushrooms

Sustainably grown, organic lion's mane capsules and powder. Third party tested.

Host Defense

Popular brand offering certified organic lion's mane caps, liquid extracts and mushroom blends.

Om Mushroom Superfood

Trusted company specializing in certified organic functional mushroom supplements.

Four Sigmatic

Specializing in mushroom coffee, matcha, and cacao blends with added lion's mane.

Noomadic Herbals

Lions Mane liquid extracts made via dual extraction for potency. Lab tested.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lion's mane mushroom safe?

Yes, lion's mane mushroom is safe for most healthy adults when taken as recommended. Side effects are mild but possible.

Where does lion's mane mushroom grow?

In the wild, lion's mane grows on hardwood trees and logs across North America, Europe, and Asia. It is also commercially farmed.

What does lion's mane taste like?

Fresh lion's mane has a mild seafood flavor. Dried lion's mane used in supplements has a neutral taste.

Can lion's mane help with memory?

Compounds in lion's mane may enhance cognitive function and memory by stimulating nerve growth in the brain.

Is lion's mane legal?

Yes, lion's mane mushroom is 100% legal in the United States and Canada. It is not a controlled substance.

The Bottom Line

From online retailers to local markets, lion's mane mushrooms are widely available. Choosing organic, high-quality products can help maximize potential benefits.

Pairing lion's mane supplementation with a healthy lifestyle may support brain, nerve, and mental health. Always speak with your doctor before trying new supplements.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.