Lion’s mane mushroom might look like a little pet — but don’t underestimate it’s amazing range of benefits. Associated with major brain repair and disease-fighting, this nootropic superfood is appearing more and more in the mainstream. Lionsmane is one of the ‘trending’ wellness ingredients that is not to be ignored. Our friends at Free People have broken down its benefits and how to use it in this comprehensive guide – recipes included… 

Lion’s mane mushrooms may well be the cutest mushrooms you’ll ever happen upon at the farmers’ market or grocery store, and delicious, too. And, thanks to functional mushrooms’ rocket rise in popularity over the past several years, lion’s mane is as abundant as ever in the produce section. But did you know this super fluffy marshmallow of a mushroom isn’t just super tasty? Lion’s mane, whether eaten as part of a meal or used in a concoction could support brain function, memory and cognition, making it the perfect addition to your routine.

What is lion’s mane mushroom?

Though it may look like a creature from another planet, lion’s mane mushrooms can be found right here in the states. Native to North America, Asia, and Europe, this “tooth fungus” (a class of fungi that produce spores on tooth-like appendages – fun!) is white and shaggy, and prefers growing on the sides of hardwoods, especially beech trees. Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, lion’s mane has been gaining traction in the west as functional mushrooms rise in recognition and popularity.

What’s a “functional mushroom”? This classification refers to a group of fungi used for medicinal purposes, including reishi, cordyceps and chaga. Often used for centuries in Chinese medicine, these mushrooms are finally gaining popularity for their use as adaptogens, helping the body adapt to everyday stress. What sets lion’s mane apart from the rest? It’s also super tasty.

What are the benefits?

Categorized as a nootropic, meaning it’s consumed primarily for its potential to support brain health, lion’s mane, whether eaten as part of a meal or used in a tonic, could support brain function, memory, and cognition. Some studies even show lion’s mane could slow or even reverse cell degeneration. Lion’s mane could possess anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for gut health, and potentially providing positive effects for the entire system. In everyday life, when consumed as a powder or part of a tincture, lion’s mane could support concentration and cognition, making this mushroom ideal for the office or staying focused on a project.

How do I use lion’s mane?

Lion’s mane can be chopped and sauteed like most culinary mushrooms, or ingested as an adaptogen in a smoothie or tincture. As part of your meal, lion’s mane has a satisfying meaty texture, similar to that of lobster (and far cheaper, too). Try the two recipes below — the sauteed dish is great as-is or tossed with a pasta or sauteed greens, and the latte is amazing as a morning pick-me-up.