Lion’s mane extract shows promising cognitive health effects in healthy adults
Results showed that one hour after supplementation with the lion’s mane extract subjects demonstrated quicker performance on a Stroop task, and after 28 days of supplementation they saw a trend toward reduced subjective stress.
Lion's Mane mushroom. Photo © Shutterstock.com/Khumthong
A recent pilot study1 found that supplementation with a lion’s mane mushroom extract may support cognitive health and mood in young, healthy people. The extract used was SO-DSX1 from Sempera Organics (Morgan Hill, CA). In the study, 41 healthy adults between the ages of 18 and 45 were randomized to receive a daily dose of 1.8 grams of the lion’s mane extract or placebo while researchers investigated the acute (60 minutes post dose) and chronic (28 days of intervention) impacts of the extract. Results showed that one hour after supplementation with the lion’s mane extract subjects demonstrated quicker performance on a Stroop task, and after 28 days of supplementation they saw a trend toward reduced subjective stress.
The researchers note that the Stroop task was the only test of acute effect on which supplementation had an observed impact. These other tests include: immediate and delayed word recall, numeric working memory, choice reaction time, peg and ball, and delayed word recognition. The researchers therefore advise caution in drawing conclusions about the extract’s ability to improve cognitive function. They do however note that it is the first study to demonstrate cognitive benefits of the lion’s mane extract in young, healthy subjects. In terms of the potential mechanisms, the researchers point to a potential impact on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is established to “regulates synaptic plasticity and processes related to learning and memory consolidation.”
“The findings suggest that SO-DSX1 may improve speed of performance and reduce subjective stress in healthy, young adults,” said Nirmal Nair, CEO and founder of Sempera Organics, in a press release. “Therefore, we believe that our proprietary SO-DSX1 blend would be a perfect ingredient for cognitive performance supplements and beverages aimed at younger adults who are seeking a mental edge in work/career and in gaming.”
AIDP is the distributor for Sempera Organics' mushroom ingredients.
Reference
Docherty, S.; Doughty, F.L.; Smith, E.F. The Acute and Chronic Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress and Mood in Young Adults: A Double-Blind, Parallel Groups, Pilot Study. Nutrients, 2023, 15(22): 4842. DOI: 10.3390/nu15224842
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