Are you curious about alternative treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) that claim to support your brain or protect your nerves? You’re not alone. Members of MyMSTeam have talked about using lion’s mane, an edible medicinal mushroom, as a natural therapy.

“Has anyone heard of taking lion’s mane mushrooms for MS?” one MyMSTeam member wrote. “If you do take it, does it work for you?”

A couple of members who have taken lion’s mane supplements say they’ve noticed possible benefits. “I’ve been taking lion’s mane since right after I got diagnosed. I do feel and believe it works,” said one.

Although some people with MS believe lion’s mane mushrooms help them feel better, there isn’t strong scientific evidence to support these claims yet. Before considering lion’s mane as a treatment, it’s helpful to know what this mushroom is and what research has found so far.

About Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

The lion’s mane mushroom goes by many names, including yamabushitake and Hericium erinaceus. Lion’s mane mushrooms look like white pompoms. They grow naturally in Asia and North America. Lion’s mane is said to smell and taste a bit like seafood. In fact, these mushrooms are often used as vegan-friendly substitutes for recipes that call for crab or shrimp. They can be eaten cooked or raw.

Lion’s mane mushrooms have been used in both Asian cuisine and medicine for centuries. In the U.S., the use of lion’s mane for health purposes is considered to be integrative, alternative, or complementary medicine. Lion’s mane is believed to support brain health, reduce inflammation, and prevent cell damage. Some people believe these mushrooms also support immune function, mental health, and general well-being.

In addition to their potential medicinal properties, lion’s mane mushrooms offer some nutritional value. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a 100-gram serving (about 3.5 ounces) provides 4.4 grams of dietary fiber and is a good source of potassium and niacin (vitamin B3), as well as being rich in riboflavin (vitamin B2). They also contain smaller amounts of other essential nutrients.

Lion’s Mane Supplements

In addition to the actual mushrooms, some people choose to take lion’s mane supplements. To create these products, the bioactive compounds (medicinal substances) are extracted from the mushroom. You can take lion’s mane supplements as capsules, pills, powder, gummies, or in other forms. You can add some forms — like powders — to your cooking or baking.

“I take lion’s mane mushroom powder,” said one MyMSTeam member. “I don’t like pills, and the powder has no flavor, so I can put it in my yogurt.” Another shared, “I take lion’s mane in powder form, usually in a smoothie for breakfast.”

Are Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Effective for Managing MS Symptoms?

There aren’t many published studies on how lion’s mane affects people with MS. Most research so far has been done in animals, not humans. A few small studies in people without MS have found possible benefits for memory and mood, but no research has proven these effects for people with MS. More studies are needed before we know if lion’s mane can help with MS symptoms. Although some individuals report perceived improvements, it’s important to view these experiences as anecdotal and not as a substitute for medical advice or proven treatment strategies.

Bioactive Compounds in Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

Lion’s mane has several chemicals, called bioactive compounds, that appear to affect the central nervous system. Scientists are researching many of these compounds, which may give lion’s mane potential health benefits.

Neurotrophic, or neuroregenerative, compounds can be found in lion’s mane mushrooms. These compounds are said to encourage the growth of nerve cells (neurons). Erinacines and hericenones are bioactive compounds in lion’s mane that may repair and protect against nerve damage.

Some people believe lion’s mane has neuroprotective compounds that may reduce inflammation in MS. “I have taken it for over a year. I do not have cognitive problems and feel it is wonderful,” a member of MyMSTeam said. “I will not quit taking it!”

Lion’s mane contains certain carbohydrates that may reduce the buildup of abnormal proteins, called amyloids. These amyloid buildups (also called plaques) may contribute to cognitive problems caused by MS brain lesions.

Certain antioxidants in lion’s mane may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress while helping extend the life and function of nerves.

Early research seems promising, but it’s important to speak with a medical professional before adding lion’s mane to your diet.

Are Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Safe To Eat?

Lion’s mane mushrooms have been safely eaten for hundreds of years. No major harmful effects have been reported in the clinical studies done on both animals and humans so far. In small studies, some people have reported mild side effects, such as stomach discomfort, after taking lion’s mane supplements. Keep in mind, however, that data is limited, and clinical research on lion’s mane and MS is in its very early stages.

As with any drug or supplement, there are possible risks associated with adding lion’s mane supplements to your MS treatment regimen. Always seek medical advice before adding vitamins or supplements to your MS treatment plan.

Differences in Regulatory Oversight and Quality Control

While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has strict rules for foods sold in grocery stores, dietary supplements like lion’s mane are not reviewed or approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness before they are sold. Supplement makers do not have to prove their products are safe, effective, or contain what they claim before they reach stores. This means the quality, strength, and purity of lion’s mane supplements can vary widely from brand to brand. If problems are found later, the FDA can step in to remove unsafe supplements from the market, but this usually only happens after people have reported serious side effects. Look for products that are certified by third-party organizations like U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), NSF International, or ConsumerLab to help ensure quality and safety.

Possible Side Effects and Drug Interactions

Although there are no specific known risks, lion’s mane may cause side effects. If you have a history of mushroom allergies or you’re nursing or pregnant, you should talk to your doctor before eating lion’s mane mushrooms or taking them as a supplement.

Dietary supplements can interact with medications and with each other. There are no guidelines on how MS drugs and dietary supplements or herbal remedies might interact. There is currently no data on how lion’s mane might interact with effective MS treatments like disease-modifying therapies. Remember to tell your healthcare provider about the other drugs and supplements you’re taking before starting any new herbal remedies, medications, or supplements. Just because there are no reported problems yet doesn’t mean side effects or drug interactions aren’t possible.

Find Your Team

MyMSTeam is the social network for people living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their loved ones. On MyMSTeam, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories.

Have you used lion’s mane mushrooms medicinally? How did they work for you? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.