Why Lion’s Mane Mushroom?
In 2025, interest in medicinal mushrooms reached a new peak.
At Vitafoods Europe 2025, Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane Mushroom, also known as Yamato-houki in Japan) became one of the key ingredients in the “brain health” segment.
It is called the mushroom for memory because its unique bioactive compounds can stimulate nerve cell growth and improve cognitive functions.
Bioactive Compounds
Hericium erinaceus contains:
-
Erinacines and Hericenones — stimulate the synthesis of nerve growth factor (NGF).
-
Beta-glucans — support immunity and have antioxidant properties.
-
Phenolic compounds — protect neurons from oxidative stress.
Thanks to these compounds, the mushroom combines a neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effect.
Clinical Evidence
-
In a Japanese study (Mori et al., 2009), patients with mild cognitive impairment experienced significant improvements in memory and attention after 16 weeks of Lion’s Mane Mushroom extract intake.
-
Animal studies showed stimulation of new neuron formation in the hippocampus.
-
Recent reviews (Zhang et al., 2023) confirm the potential of Hericium in dementia prevention.
Forms of Use: Trends from Vitafoods
At the 2025 exhibition, several new delivery systems were presented:
-
Functional drinks with Lion’s Mane Mushroom extract + caffeine/theanine.
-
Chewable gummies to support memory in students.
-
Dual-release capsules with combined effects on brain and microbiome.
-
Smoothie powders — popular among the wellness audience.
Table: Studies on Hericium erinaceus
| Study | Participants | Duration | Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mori et al., 2009 (Japan) | 30 patients with mild cognitive impairment | 16 weeks | Improvement of memory and attention |
| Saitsu et al., 2019 (animal study) | Mice | 6 weeks | Stimulation of neurogenesis in the hippocampus |
| Zhang et al., 2023 (review) | 15 clinical studies | — | Neuroprotective effect, potential in dementia prevention |
Practical Recommendations
-
For students and office workers: gummies or drinks with extract to improve concentration.
-
For people 50+: capsule forms with controlled doses to support cognitive health.
-
For wellness routines: smoothie powders as a daily functional ingredient.
Conclusion
Lion’s Mane Mushroom is one of the strongest examples of how nature and modern delivery technologies combine to support the brain.
It is no longer perceived as “exotic” from traditional medicine but is becoming a common nutraceutical for students, office workers, and older adults.
References
-
Mori K. et al. Improvement of cognitive functions by Hericium erinaceus in mild cognitive impairment. Phytother Res. 2009.
-
Saitsu Y. et al. Hericium erinaceus promotes neurogenesis in hippocampus. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2019.
-
Zhang H. et al. Neuroprotective potential of Hericium erinaceus: A systematic review. Nutrients. 2023.
-
Vitafoods Europe 2025 Reports: Brain Health Sessions.
About the Author
