11 best Lion's Mane supplements to improve focus & productivity
The best Lion's Mane supplements have been on our radar — and our shelves — for quite some time now. Because it seems that everyone, including our friends, family members and TikTok nutritionists are recommending the dietary supplements.
But why the sudden boom? Quite simply, Lion's Mane benefits include better focus, mental clarity and a reduction in stress levels — yeah, this is a wonder fungi. But are Lion's Mane supplements (otherwise known as Hericium Erinaceus) a worthy addition to your wellness routine or simply a passing trend?
According to Bettervits’ Accredited Nutritionist and Head of Product, Harriet Hunter, it's the former rather than the latter: “Lion’s mane is a mushroom native to select parts of Asia, Europe, and North America that has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its renowned neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. But in more recent years, it has gained popularity worldwide as a dietary supplement extract."
Hunter adds that studies and personal anecdotes alike remark on its ability to promote feelings of calm and focus in the brain. “Scientific research also shows exciting and promising applications for those seeking mental health support and long-term cognitive health benefits," she adds.
Even better news: thanks to the huge increase in interest in Lion's Mane, there's a whole host of supplements on the market to choose from. We're talking easy-to-swallow Lion's Mane capsules, powders, liquids, and even those drinkable as matcha-style lattes — most of which we (a team of Glamour editors) put to the test for a minimum of four weeks.
So, stay tuned for answers to all your Lion's Mane FAQs, as well as a list of the very best mushrooms to boost your mental and physical wellbeing.
How we test the best Lion's Mane supplements:
The Glamour team are a hard-working bunch, spending their evenings and weekends moonlighting as beauty and wellness testers — AKA the best sleep supplements, electrolytes, green powders — to uncover which move them closer to their fitness, focus and health goals.
Each willing volunteer was asked to try one Lion's Mane supplement for a minimum of four weeks. At the end of their trial period, they were asked to rate it against the following criteria:
- Ease of use — Were the capsules easy to swallow? Did the powder mix well with water?
- Efficacy — How long into the four weeks did they notice a difference, if any?
- Taste — On a scale of one to five, how pleasurable was the taste?
- Value for money — Would they be happy to commit to the weekly, monthly or bi-monthly spend?
Unsurprisingly, only our fan-favourites made it onto our list below.
Why you can trust me: Cat Hufton
I'm an experienced lifestyle journalist who has tested hundreds of products in my quest to find the best products worthy of your hard-earned money. I became particularly interested in wellness and health products after having children seven years ago, and I needed a little extra helping hand in feeling my best.
As such, I've spoken to countless industry experts, tested a wide variety of supplements and wellness products, and become pretty astute at knowing what really makes a difference.
Disclaimer: Keep in mind that this article isn't a substitute for professional medical advice, and our recommendations won't replace a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.
What is Lion's Mane, and what are the benefits?
“Lion’s Mane is a type of medicinal mushroom,” details women’s health nutritionist Stephanie Smith. “These are fungi with purported pharmaceutical benefits.” Another word for this type of mushroom is ‘functional,’ which dietitian nutritionist Lena Bakovic says has taken off in recent years.
“Their popularity has grown due in large part to the mushrooms’ purported adaptogenic properties,” she says. “Adaptogens, which have been a constituent of Eastern Medicine for many years, are thought to help counteract the effects of stress on our bodies.”
Recent studies suggest that Lion's Mane may help alleviate stress and improve focus or speed when completing tasks, but further research is needed on a larger scale. “The research on lion's mane is promising but still developing,” adds Doctify-rated nutritionist Raquel Britzke. “Some studies suggest benefits for memory and brain function, but we need more human trials. Some research also suggests gut microbiome benefits."
Ahead, the best Lion's Mane supplements for 2026, tried & tested by Glamour editors:
Wild Nutrition Food-Grown Organic Protein + Superfood Powder
Type: Vegan protein powder.
Dosage: 3 heaped tablespoons per day, mixed with milk.This supercharged vegan protein powder from Wild Nutrition helps you hit your daily protein targets and support muscle mass while also enjoying the psychological benefits of seven different functional mushrooms - including our star ingredient, Lion's Mane. Simply take 3 heaped tablespoons and mix with your favourite milk and enjoy any time of day.
Pros:
· Made with 18 different amino acids alongside seven functional mushrooms and supergreens such as spirulina.
· Contains 16 grams of protein per shake.Cons:
· Some people find pea protein can make them gassy and bloated (we can vouch for this), so bear this in mind before committing.Protein Works Lion's Mane Limitless
Type: Capsules.
Dosage: 2 capsules a day.If you're keen to feel the benefits, you may want to try Protein Work's super-strength formula, offering the equivalent of 4,000mg of Lion’s Mane mushroom. But, also being infused with Vitamin B6, Lion’s Mane Limitless should help reduce tiredness and fatigue, keeping you energised all day. Protein Work's product director, Kyle Crowley, says: “Lion’s Mane Limitless represents a cutting-edge approach to brain health and performance. Whether you’re tackling a busy work schedule or managing hands-on projects, this supplement is designed to keep you sharp and alert.”
Pros:
·Good value for money and choice between buying 60, 120, or 180 capsules.
·This supplement also provides the added benefit of vitamin B6.Cons:
·Some may find the capsules quite large to swallow.Save when you shop the best Lion's Mane supplements with these Protein Works discount codes.
KIKI Health Organic Lion's Mane Extract
Type: Capsules.
Dosage: Up to 4 capsules a day with food.Containing the equivalent of 6000mg of Lion's Mane mushroom powder per capsule, these sure pack a punch. The certified cruelty-free and organic supplements are suitable for all, including vegans and vegetarians, said to improve focus, energy levels, alertness and even sleep patterns, thanks to their strength and efficacy.
Pros:
·Potent amount of lion's mane in each dosage.
· Cruelty-free and suitable for vegans and vegetarians.Cons:
·Daily dosage is 2-4 capsules a day, which seems quite a lot of capsules to swallow.Save when you shop the best Lion's Mane supplements with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Ancient + Brave Matcha + Collagen
Type: Powder.
Dosage: Mix 6g of powder with warm water before topping with milk for a matcha latte-style drink.Matcha fans rejoice: you can now buy a Lion's Mane blend that can be drunk as your favourite green morning beverage. Designed to be paired with milk for a frothy (yet healthy) treat full of antioxidants in the AM, this powder features Grass-fed Bovine True Collagen, Organic Lion’s Mane, Organic Matcha, Organic MCT Powder, Organic Moringa and Organic Cinnamon. Phew…
Pros:
·Gentle alternative to capsules and easy to make as part of your daily routine.
·You get to enjoy additional wellbeing benefits from ingredients such as bovine collagen and matcha, etc.Cons:
·The bitter Matcha taste is not for everyone; a bit like Marmite.Save when you shop the best Lion's Mane supplements with these health and beauty discount codes.
The Nue Co. Multi Mushroom Complex
Type: Capsules.
Dosage: 2 capsules a day with food.Prefer a capsule shell to a liquid or Lion's Mane mushroom powder? The Nue Co.'s supplement combines several mushrooms to target multiple bodily ailments, including cordyceps, lion’s mane, reishi, maitake, shiitake and chaga. Together, these help to maintain energy levels and brain function, making them the perfect ‘multi mushroom’ option.
Pros:
·Helps to alleviate a range of concerns with a combination of mushrooms.
·This supplement uses plant-based ingredients, and it's suitable for vegans.Cons:
·This option doesn't contain the highest amount of Lion's Mane compared to others.Save when you shop the best Lion's Mane supplements with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Lemme Focus Concentration Gummies
Type: Chewable gummies.
Dosage: 2 gummies a day.If you're buying into Kourtney Kardashian's supplement gummy brand Lemme, you'll want to give the ‘Lemme Focus’ formula a try, which combines Organic Lion's Mane with Cognizin Citicoline, Vitamin B12 and Organic MCT Oil. The vegan gummies are so delicious, you won't feel like you're doing the ‘work’ to take supplements, and are best taken with breakfast, with the whole day ahead.
Pros:
·These gummies taste really good, so you'll look forward to taking your morning dose.
· Made without high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, synthetic colours, gluten, GMOs, sugar alcohols, dairy, palm oil, gelatin, or FD&C dyes.Cons:
· Each serving (two gummies) provides 25mg of Lion's Mane which is far less than most capsules so you won't get quite the same benefit.Together Health Lions Mane Mushroom Extract
Type: Capsules.
Dosage: 2 capsules a day.If you're after a high-strength formula, a daily dose of Together Health capsules is equivalent to 9740 mg of mushrooms, in an easy-to-absorb form — which are, FYI, also free from artificial additives, processing aids, made via chemical-free processes, plus packed inside plastic-free and compostable packaging. Our testers also confirmed them to be gentle on the stomach and easy to swallow. Win-win-win.
Pros:
·The capsules are easy to swallow and don't cause cramps.
·Made using certified organic ingredients.Cons:
·The daily dosage is two capsules a day, which can feel a lot if you take other supplements.Save when you shop the best Lion's Mane supplements with these Superdrug discount codes.
Rainbo Lion's Mane Mushroom Tincture
Type: Liquid.
Dosage: 4ml twice daily, mixed into water, coffee, tea, smoothies or milk.If you find taking supplements a pain (or just struggle to remember), make it a part of your morning drink routine. Simply drop 4ml of Rainbo's liquid into your brew and get the most out of Lion's Mane for the rest of the day. It promises to improve mood, focus and even memory, making it a worthy addition to your AM beverage.
Pros:
·Combines the benefits of 11 different functional mushrooms.
·Can be used in the morning or evening.Cons:
·This is definitely a more expensive option, so it is a bit of an investment.
Sixways Focus + Elevate Mushroom Blend
Type: Mango-flavoured powder.
Dosage: Mix one scoop with water in the AM.If a morning fresh orange juice is a non-negotiable for you, why not add a touch of zesty tropical flavour with this mango powder, which delivers on its promises? With Lion's Mane Mushroom as well as Maca Root, Ginkgo Biloba, and Vitamin B Complex, this is a powerful blend that'll set you up for your day. Subscriptions, signing you up for a fresh delivery every 30 days, are also available, saving you the stress of a regular restock and 25% off every bag.
Pros:
·This is a good option for anyone with a gluten intolerance or is looking to cut down on sugar: it contains neither.
·Contains 400mg of lion's mane per serving.Cons:
·The taste may not appeal to everyone.Save when you shop the best Lion's Mane supplements with these Amazon discount codes.
Mother Made Focus: Lions Mane Capsules
Type: Capsules.
Dosage: Up to 2 capsules daily.If there's one brand you can trust to get the best out of Lion's Mane, it's New Zealand-born Mother Made – in fact, the entire brand is built around the power of mushrooms. One dose of these easy-to-swallow capsules delivers 450mg of organic Lion’s Mane extract. Certified organic, the single ingredient has been grown on natural substrates in China and New Zealand.
Pros:
·Results can be felt quite quickly - especially in regard to improving menopausal symptoms such as brain fog.
·Each capsule provides 450mg of lion's Mane.Cons:
·Two capsules might feel like a lot if you're already taking other supplements.Nutrition Geeks Lion's Mane Focus+
Type: Micro tablets.
Dosage: 2 x micro tablets per day.If your draw to Lion's Mane is its ability to help you focus better, this supplement from Nutrition Geeks is an excellent option. It contains 4,000mg of Lion's Mane and 50% of polysaccharides, which are the most beneficial compounds found in this functional mushroom. It also contains black pepper to help the Lion's Mane absorb efficiently, and vitamin B1 to support your mental performance. Take two of the easy-swallow micro tablets at the start of a busy day to help maintain your concentration.
Pros:
· It contains a higher level of polysaccharides than many competitors.
· This supplement is vegan and gluten-free.Cons:
·Some reviewers say that, even due to the micro size of the tablets, they find they are sticky to swallow.
Lion's Mane FAQs, answered:
What is the best way to take Lion's Mane?
“To get the most out of your supplement, look for a fine powder form of lion’s mane,” says Bettervits’ Accredited Nutritionist and Head of Product, Harriet Hunter. “The particles will increase bioavailability within the body. Additionally, taking the supplement with or alongside a meal rich in healthy fats may help improve absorption”.
Wondering what time of day is best? Hunter adds that there is no single best time to take Lion’s Mane. “However, it is often recommended as part of a morning routine to help support its benefits throughout the day,” she adds.
Are there any side effects of taking Lion’s Mane supplements?
Lion's Mane supplements are considered to be ‘well-tolerated’ by most, meaning side effects are rare. However, Bakovic says there are a couple of key signs to watch for: "The side effects that have been reported are related to digestive upset, potentially allergic reactions, and skin rashes.”
“For most people, lion's mane is considered safe when consumed in food amounts or taken as a supplement from reputable sources," adds Doctify-rated nutritionist Raquel Britzke. “However, some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort or allergic reactions. It may also interact with blood thinners or medications for diabetes due to its potential effects on blood clotting and glucose regulation.”
Who should and shouldn’t take Lion’s Mane?
“As with all supplements, there is not always a need to take them," stresses Smith. "However, if people are looking for help with focus, concentration, nervous system support or would like to supplement specifically for brain and cognitive health, then Lion’s Mane could be something of interest.”
In terms of who should avoid it, Bakovic notes that, “due to the limited amount of research supporting the benefits of these mushrooms at this time, and especially during pregnancy, it is advisable that pregnant women should avoid taking Lion's Mane mushrooms or supplements.”
“But before taking any supplement, it is recommended to discuss it first and foremost with a healthcare provider/physician to ensure that there are no potential dangers or drug/nutrient interactions.”
Meet the experts:
| Lena Bakovic | Registered dietitian nutritionist and author. |
| Stephanie Smith | Women’s health nutritionist speaking on behalf of women’s health platform, Agora Health. |
| Kyle Crowley | Protein Works' product director. |
| Raquel Britzke | Doctify-rated nutritionist with 15 years of experience. |
| Harriet Hunter | Bettervits’ accredited nutritionist and head of product. |
