Looking into Lions Mane for ADHD? As an educator with ADHD raising an ADHD family, I’m in it with you. Living with an ADHD brain has its challenges. Because of this, I’m always looking for different ways to manage ADHD. The good news is that supplementing with natural remedies is extremely helpful for my ADHD family.
And one of the natural supplements we use to support overall brain health is Lion’s Mane mushroom. In this post, let’s explore the potential advantages of Lion’s Mane mushrooms for those of us with ADHD.
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Seek Professional Medical Advice
I am not a doctor. This is NOT medical advice. I’m an educator with a passion for learning, health, and supporting the neurodivergent community.
As such, this is for educational purposes only. I encourage you to learn as much as you can by researching, reading, and seeking the insight of trusted experts.
Always discuss healthcare decisions with your trusted healthcare provider.
Understanding Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Many types of fungi, referred to as functional mushrooms, have been heralded for their health benefits for thousands of years.
Lion’s Mane, in particular, is a medicinal mushroom that’s gained attention for its potential benefits on brain function.
Appearance and Origin of Lion’s Mane
Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a unique mushroom with distinctive white, cascading spines that resemble a lion’s mane. Hence its name. It’s an edible mushroom found in forests of Japan and is commonly eaten there.
It has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for its potential to support the immune system, and overall health, including brain function.
The bioactive compounds in Lion’s Mane mushrooms are hericenones and erinacines. These compounds are believed responsible for the mushroom’s therapeutic properties.
For those of us with ADHD, Lion’s Mane holds promise for cognitive enhancement. As mentioned earlier, I’ve used Lion’s Mane supplements as a natural remedy for my family for quite some time. (More on that later.)
Before we dive into the benefits of Lions Mane for ADHD, let’s briefly discuss ADHD.
ADHD and Neurodiversity
According to traditional medicine, ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (worst name ever, BTW), is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder.
In recent years, however, there has been a great cultural push to dismantle pathologizing language. Using a neurodiversity lens, ADHD is seen as one neurotype among many.
This strength-based lens can have a positive effect on the self-worth and mental health of millions of Americans with ADHD.
ADHD, Executive Functions, and the Prefrontal Cortex
The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is the home of executive functioning.
It doesn’t fully develop until the 3rd decade of life (closer to age 30 in the ADHD brain).
ADHD is characterized by challenges with executive functioning skills. Executive function skills are a set of skills orchestrated in the prefrontal cortex and develop over a person’s lifetime.
Typically, the prefrontal cortex is not fully developed until the age of 25. However, this is often delayed until closer to 30 in neurodivergent people (ADHD, Autism, etc.)
Challenges Related to ADHD
Common symptoms of ADHD are varied and include challenges related to:
- Impulsivity
- Emotional Dysregulation
- Sustained Attention/Distractibility
- Working Memory
- Task Initiation
- Planning and Problem-Solving
- Self-Motivation
- Disorganization
Common Strengths of ADHD
Strengths of the ADHD neurotype include:
- Hyperfocus
- Passion
- Creativity
- Adventurous
- Problem-Solving
- Innovative
Signs of ADHD in Adults
Signs of ADHD in Adults may look like challenges with:
- Time Management
- Always Late (Raising my hand here)
- Procrastination
- Forgetful
- Interrupt Conversations
- Related to challenges with Verbal Working Memory
- Fidgeting
- Restlessness
- Mood Swings
- Always Changing Jobs
For more on adults with ADHD, check out this ADHD Checklist for Adults.
Signs of ADHD in Kids
Signs of ADHD in kids may appear as:
- Fidgeting
- All over the place
- Can’t Sit Still in a Chair
- Hyperactivity
- Blurts Things Out in School
- Mood Swings/Emotional Regulation Challenges
- Trouble paying attention to non-preferred activities
- For example, schoolwork, chores, hygiene, etc.
- Challenges remaining physically still,
- Difficulty taking turns,
- Messy Room/Backpack
There are more signs of ADHD in kids, but this gives us a starting point.
Benefits of Lion’s Mane for ADHD Symptoms
Lions Mane is one of many dietary supplements used in alternative medicine for thousands of years. And the health benefits of Lions Mane are numerous.
Potential benefits of Lion’s Mane Mushroom include:
- Improves cognitive performance,
- Memory,
- Overall energy levels,
- Supports mood,
- Mental clarity,
- Reduced brain fog
Lion’s Mane and Neurodegeneration
According to American mycologist Paul Stamets, author of Fantastic Fungi, Lion’s Mane is useful for those with neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, he recommends it for those with nerve injuries and neuropathy.
- Hardcover Book
- English (Publication Language)
- 184 Pages – 08/27/2019 (Publication Date) – Earth Aware Editions (Publisher)
Now, let’s more deeply dig into a few of the benefits of Lions Mane for ADHD.
1. Cognitive Performance
Research suggests that Lion’s Mane may be an effective treatment to enhance cognitive performance. This is especially important for those of us with ADHD, as we often struggle with:
- Focus
- Sustained Attention
- Other Executive Functions
One double-blind placebo-controlled study indicated that Lion’s Mane extract may have a neuroprotective effect. Specifically, Lions Mane use led to improvements in cognitive function in those with mild cognitive impairment. Further, Lion’s Mane shows promise in slowing cognitive decline.
2. Memory
Many people with ADHD experience difficulties with memory. Lion’s Mane may help mitigate these issues, as it has been shown to promote the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain.
NGF plays a crucial role in neuroplasticity as it stimulates the production of nerve cells and strengthens existing ones. Further, it may support the formation and maintenance of memories.
Lions Mane’s Potential Benefits on Alzheimer’s
A 2019 study of patients with mild Alzheimer’s Disease demonstrated support for the neuroprotective effects of Lion’s Mane.
After 49 weeks of Lion’s Mane intervention (350 mg three times daily) higher cognitive scores in those with mild Alzheimer’s compared to a control group.
The scientific community is now realizing that Alzheimer’s disease begins developing long before symptoms arise. Because of this, Lion’s Mane’s potential cognitive benefits show promise for ADHD and other neurological conditions.
3. Mental Clarity
ADHD often leads to a sense of mental fogginess. I know this from personal experience and am always looking for ways to increase my dopamine levels to improve my mental clarity and drive.
Lion’s Mane’s potential to enhance mental clarity may be attributed to its ability to support nerve cell growth and myelination, a process essential for efficient communication between brain cells.
4. Energy
Fatigue and low energy levels are common in individuals with ADHD. (Again, raising my hand here.) Quite frankly, low energy is a pervasive sign of ADHD in women.
While Lion’s Mane doesn’t act as a stimulant medication, it may indirectly contribute to increased energy by reducing mental fatigue and improving overall cognitive function.
5. Improved Mood
Dr. Andrew Weil, a leader in complementary medicine, notes the potential beneficial effects of Lion’s Mane on mood.
Recent research found that mice subjected to stressful environmental factors showed reduced levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Low levels of these neurotransmitters are associated with depression.
When given the active ingredient in Lion’s Mane, the mice experienced significant improvements in these symptoms of depression.
It’s important to note that the ADHD brain is associated with imbalances of these same neurotransmitters. The most commonly prescribed ADHD prescription medication works by specifically supporting healthy levels of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Lion’s Mane vs. Other Natural Supplements
Now, let’s compare Lion’s Mane to other natural supplements often touted for their support of ADHD. Rhodiola Rosea and Ginkgo Biloba are two alternative treatments that I use to support my ADHD family.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba is a popular herbal supplement. Potential benefits of Ginkgo Biloba include enhanced:
- Memory,
- Concentration,
- Overall cognitive function.
Additionally, it may benefit individuals with ADHD by improving blood flow to the brain.
However, Lion’s Mane stands out due to its neuroprotective properties, which can support long-term brain health and potentially alleviate ADHD symptoms over time.
Rhodiola Rosea
Now, let’s move on to Rhodiola Rosea.
Rhodiola Rosea is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body cope with stress and fatigue. It may provide a short-term energy boost, making it appealing for those of us with ADHD.
However, some believe that Lion’s Mane delivers a more comprehensive approach compared to Rhodiola. Specifically, by addressing cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity in addition to energy levels.
In the end, I’ve found all three alternative treatments to be helpful in supporting healthy brain activity. Below you’ll see my preferred brands of each.
Weaning Off ADHD Medication
Weaning myself off ADHD stimulant medication was not easy. The drop in dopamine levels led to depressive symptoms including:
- Low mood
- No energy
- Zero motivation
- No drive
- Sadness
Fortunately, I started Rhodiola Rosea shortly after and found it very helpful in the months following. Rhodiola had a slight stimulating effect on me. This helped boost my energy level and increase my motivation so I could function.
Brain-Boosting Benefits of Lion’s Mane for ADHD
When comparing the brain-boosting benefits of Lion’s Mane to other natural alternatives for ADHD, consider this.
Lion’s Mane appears to be unique in its ability to support various aspects of brain function simultaneously.
While Ginkgo Biloba and Rhodiola Rosea have advantages, Lion’s Mane may offer a more holistic approach to managing ADHD symptoms and enhancing overall cognitive well-being.
In the end, we all have unique physiology. Listen to your body and advocate for yourself.
Potential Side Effects of Lion’s Mane for ADHD
Healthy adults should feel safe taking Lion’s Mane as there are limited reported side effects. However, as with any supplement, individual reactions may vary.
Some potential side effects of Lion’s Mane may include:
1. Digestive Discomfort
Some individuals may experience mild digestive issues like diarrhea or stomach discomfort, though these effects are rare.
2. Allergic reactions
In very rare cases, people may be allergic to Lion’s Mane mushrooms, leading to symptoms like rash or itching. If you suspect an allergy, discontinue use and talk to a trusted healthcare professional.
3. Interactions with medications:
Lion’s Mane may interact with certain medications. As such, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before adding it to your regimen. Even more so if you’re taking medications for ADHD or any other condition.
Recap: Why I Take Lions Mane for ADHD
Lion’s Mane mushroom is a promising alternative solution for people like you and me who live with ADHD. Lion’s Mane offers a number of potential benefits including enhancing:
- Cognitive performance,
- Memory,
- Mental clarity,
- and Energy.
Experts don’t fully understand the potential of Lions Mane. However, existing studies and anecdotal evidence certainly point to its ability to support brain health.
If you’re considering Lion’s Mane or other supplements for ADHD, consult with a healthcare provider. Additionally, because we’re all students of life, please continue to stay updated on the latest research to make informed decisions about managing your ADHD symptoms naturally.
You’re your own best advocate. So, Friend. Have you tried Lion’s Mane in your ADHD home?
Up Next:
17 Best ADHD Supplements to Improve Symptoms Naturally
15 Signs Your ADHD Medication Dose Is Too High
Rhodiola vs Ashwagandha: Which Adaptogen is Best for You?
19 Ways to Increase Dopamine & Improve ADHD Symptoms
About the Author:
Lindsay is a trauma-informed educator with a Master’s Degree in Teaching. Her mission is to support moms to equip neurodivergent kids (ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Anxiety) to thrive as exactly who they’ve been created to be. Wait until you hear the story that led to it all…
Seek Professional Medical Advice
I am not a doctor. This is NOT medical advice. I’m an educator with a passion for learning, health, and supporting the neurodivergent community.
As such, I encourage you to learn as much as you can by researching, reading, and seeking the insight of trusted experts.
Always discuss healthcare decisions with your trusted healthcare provider.
