A randomized, double□blind, placebo□controlled study evaluating the impact of Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) on cognitive performance and subjective wellbeing

Abstract Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane) is a functional mushroom with a long history of culinary and traditional use, as well as potential neurotrophic and mood□modulating properties. Evidence for its effects on cognitive performance under real□world conditions, however, remains limited. In this randomized, double□blind, placebo□controlled trial, adults aged 40–75 years with self□reported cognitive difficulty completed a one□week baseline followed by eight weeks of daily supplementation with 2 g of H. erinaceus fruiting body and mycelial biomass or placebo. Cognitive performance using a computerized battery, as well as daily subjective assessments of sleep and wellbeing, were collected remotely. 109 Participants were included in the primary analysis ( H. erinaceus , n = 57; placebo, n = 52). H. erinaceus was associated with significantly greater improvement in visual attention and working memory (Juggle Factor task), subjective sleep quality, morning restedness, and mood compared with placebo ( p < 0.05). No adverse events were reported in participants receiving H. erinaceus . Together, H. erinaceus supplementation modestly improved visual attention and was associated with faster improvements in sleep quality, restedness, and mood in adults with subjective cognitive concerns.