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.

BACKGROUND

Given the bioactive properties and limited work to date, (Lion's mane) shows promise in improving cognitive function and mood. However, much of the human research has concentrated on chronic supplementation in cognitively compromised cohorts.

OBJECTIVE

The current pilot study investigated the acute and chronic (28-day) cognitive and mood-enhancing effects of in a healthy, young adult cohort.

DESIGN

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-groups design investigated the acute (60 min post dose) and chronic (28-day intervention) effects of 1.8 g in 41 healthy adults aged 18-45 years.

RESULTS

Analysis revealed that following a single dose of , participants performed quicker on the Stroop task ( = 0.005) at 60 min post dose. A trend towards reduced subjective stress was observed following 28-day supplementation ( = 0.051).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings tentatively suggest that may improve speed of performance and reduce subjective stress in healthy, young adults. However, null and limited negative findings were also observed. Given the small sample size, these findings should be interpreted with caution. Further investigation in larger sample sizes is crucial, however the findings of this trial offer a promising avenue of interest.