Lion’s Mane in Paris: The Mushroom of Memory

Lion’s Mane in Paris: why this mushroom fascinates neuroscience

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), also known as hericium, is a medicinal mushroom that fascinates researchers worldwide. Nicknamed the “memory mushroom”, it is the only known mushroom capable of stimulating the production of NGF (Nerve Growth Factor), a growth factor essential to neuron regeneration.

At Herba Barona, in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, Lion’s Mane has become one of our most requested mushroom supplements, driven by growing interest in natural nootropics and cognitive health.

Lion’s Mane, hericium: one mushroom, several names

This mushroom goes by several names depending on the tradition:

• Lion’s Mane: the most widely used name in international scientific research, referring to the mushroom’s appearance, which resembles a white lion’s mane
• Hericium (Hericium erinaceus): the Latin botanical name, used in mycotherapy
• Yamabushitake: the Japanese name, used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries

Whatever name you use, it’s the same mushroom with remarkable properties for the brain and nervous system.

How does Lion’s Mane act on the brain?

Lion’s Mane contains two families of bioactive compounds unique in the fungal kingdom:

Hericenones

Found in the fruiting body (the visible part of the mushroom), hericenones stimulate the production of NGF (Nerve Growth Factor) in the brain. NGF is a protein essential to the survival, growth and differentiation of neurons. NGF production declines with age, contributing to cognitive decline.

Erinacines

Found in the mycelium, erinacines are diterpenoid compounds capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier — a rare property. They also stimulate NGF synthesis directly within the brain.

Lion’s Mane’s beta-glucans also help support the immune system, making this mushroom both a cognitive and an immune ally.

Who is Lion’s Mane for?

At our shop in Paris’s 12th arrondissement, we recommend Lion’s Mane in the following situations:

• Students during exam periods: support for memory and concentration
• Professionals facing a heavy cognitive load: mental clarity and focus
• Older adults wishing to preserve their cognitive function with age
• Stressed individuals: Lion’s Mane has adaptogenic properties that support mood
• Athletes: neurological recovery after intense effort
• Gamers and creatives: cognitive performance and reactivity

How to choose a good Lion’s Mane supplement

The Lion’s Mane market is booming, but quality varies enormously. Here are the key criteria:

Extract vs raw powder

A standardised extract in beta-glucans and hericenones is far more concentrated than simple ground mushroom powder. Clinical studies use extracts, not raw powder.

Beta-glucan content

A good extract should contain at least 30% beta-glucans. Below that, the concentration of active compounds is insufficient for meaningful results.

Organic certification

Mushrooms absorb pollutants from their environment. Organic certification guarantees the absence of pesticides, heavy metals and other contaminants.

Our Lion’s Mane selection at Herba Barona in Paris

We have selected two complementary references:

Organic Lion’s Mane SIHO — for pure Lion’s Mane

Organic Lion’s Mane SIHO, 60 capsules, is a concentrated organic extract, packaged in France and lab-tested independently. Rich in beta-glucans, hericenones and erinacines. This is our reference product for those wanting pure, high-quality Lion’s Mane.

Organic Hericium high-concentration — for a budget-friendly format

Organic Hericium 500 mg, 60 capsules, is a high-concentration extract at 500 mg per capsule. A budget-friendly format for longer courses, with a high polysaccharide and beta-glucan content.

Both products are complementary: the SIHO for premium quality, the Hericium for a higher dose and better value for money.

How to take Lion’s Mane

• Dosage: 1 to 2 capsules per day depending on the product
• Timing: morning or midday (a stimulating cognitive effect, not recommended in the evening)
• Duration: a 2 to 3 month course for lasting results. Initial effects on concentration appear after 2 to 3 weeks
• With a meal: improves beta-glucan absorption

Precautions: not recommended for people allergic to mushrooms. Consult a doctor if taking immunosuppressant or anticoagulant medication.

Recommended pairings with Lion’s Mane

• Plant-Based Phosphatidylserine Dynveo: Lion’s Mane (NGF) + phosphatidylserine (neuronal membranes) = a reference memory duo
• L-Tyrosine Dynveo: a dopamine precursor that boosts motivation and focus
• Magnesium 360 Dynveo: a cofactor of nerve transmission
• Boostalife Organic SIHO: a reishi + chaga + Lion’s Mane complex for a complete mushroom synergy

Where to buy Lion’s Mane in Paris

Lion’s Mane (hericium) is available at Herba Barona, your independent supplement shop in the 12th arrondissement of Paris.

Herba Barona
10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris
Metro: Ledru-Rollin (line 8) or Bastille (lines 1, 5, 8)
Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30am-6:30pm
Phone: +33 1 43 42 43 80

Our team knows medicinal mushrooms inside out and will point you towards the product that suits your profile. Come in with your questions — whether you’re after Lion’s Mane or hericium, it’s the same extraordinary mushroom!

Also check out our memory and concentration selection in Paris.