Hericium erinaceus is an edible mushroom that grows naturally on decaying hardwood trunks in temperate forests across Europe, Asia and North America, with a unique appearance — a white mass of long, hanging spines resembling a lion’s mane, hence its name. It’s been used for over a thousand years in Chinese and Japanese health traditions, known in China as Hou Tou Gu and traditionally reserved for Buddhist monks to support meditation and mental clarity, and in Japan as Yamabushitake, part of traditional medicine and also prized as a gourmet mushroom.

Unlike most medicinal mushrooms, which mainly target the immune system, Lion’s Mane is the only known mushroom able to stimulate the production of nerve growth factors, making it particularly interesting for anyone focused on their mental performance.

Lion’s Mane owes its neurotrophic properties to two specific molecule families: hericenones, found in the fruiting body, and erinacines, found in the mycelium — both capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, a selective membrane that protects the brain and blocks most substances. Once in the brain, hericenones and erinacines stimulate the synthesis of NGF (Nerve Growth Factor), essential for neuron survival, development and repair, and also involved in myelination, the process that forms the myelin sheath around nerve fibres for fast, efficient signal transmission. SIHO’s double water-and-ultrasound extraction preserves these fragile molecules and makes them bioavailable.

With 36% beta-glucan polysaccharides, the extract also supports the immune system, as beta-glucans interact with receptors on immune cells, including macrophages and NK (Natural Killer) cells, helping maintain active, balanced natural defences — giving Lion’s Mane a dual neurotrophic and immunomodulatory action.

Take 2 capsules a day, ideally in the morning, with a large glass of water — a morning dose is recommended since Lion’s Mane supports mental clarity and focus, suited to an active day. A course of 2-3 months is generally recommended for optimal cognitive effects. It pairs well with Chaga (antioxidant and immune support), Cordyceps (physical and mental energy), creatine (studied for cognitive performance) or omega-3s (brain health).

For adult use only. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. People on anticoagulant or immunosuppressant treatment should consult their doctor before use. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without prior medical advice. Store in a cool, dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.

How long before I feel the effects of Lion’s Mane?

The first effects on mental clarity and focus can be noticed within a few days to two weeks of regular use, but the most significant benefits, particularly on memory and neuroplasticity, generally require a 2-3 month course; consistency of use is key to satisfactory results.

Does Lion’s Mane keep you awake?

No, Lion’s Mane contains no caffeine and has no stimulant effect comparable to coffee or tea. Its action is on cognitive clarity, not nervous excitation; some people even report improved sleep quality thanks to its balancing effect on the nervous system, though a morning dose is still recommended to enjoy its cognitive effects during the day.

Can Lion’s Mane be taken with coffee?

Yes, Lion’s Mane pairs perfectly well with coffee. Many people combine both to get coffee’s energy alongside Lion’s Mane’s cognitive clarity; there’s no known interaction between the two, and some brands even offer coffee-Lion’s Mane blends.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.