Lion’s Mane in South Africa: What to Know Before You Buy

Lion’s mane has gone from a little-known mushroom to one of the most searched supplements in South Africa. If you’re curious about it, here’s what it is, what the research does and doesn’t say, and what to look for when you buy.

What is lion’s mane?

Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) is an edible mushroom with long, shaggy spines that look a little like a lion’s mane. It has been eaten and used in traditional practice across East Asia for centuries, and today it is one of the most popular functional mushrooms in the world.

What’s in it?

Lion’s mane naturally contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, along with polysaccharides such as beta-glucans. Hericenones and erinacines in particular are being studied for their role in brain health.

What does the research say?

Researchers are interested in lion’s mane, but much of the research so far has been in the lab or in animals, and human studies are small. That makes it a promising area rather than a proven one. Be cautious of any product that promises guaranteed results.

What to look for when buying

• The amount per serving. Check how much lion’s mane extract you are actually getting.
• The form. An extract concentrates the mushroom’s compounds compared with plain dried powder.
• A format you’ll stick with. Like most supplements, lion’s mane is taken daily, so choose capsules, powder or gummies based on what you will actually take.

Our Lion’s Mane Gummies contain 1000mg of lion’s mane mushroom extract in one sugar-free, vegan gummy, available in a 10-gummy trial pack or a 30-gummy tub. If you would like lion’s mane alongside other mushrooms, our 10-in-1 Mushroom Complex Gummies include it with nine other mushroom extracts.

Is it safe?

Lion’s mane is an edible mushroom and is generally well tolerated. Avoid it if you are allergic to mushrooms, and speak to your healthcare provider first if you are pregnant, nursing or take medication.

This article is for general information only and isn’t medical advice.