How Long Should You Take Lion's Mane?
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How long should you take lion's mane? There is no official guidance on duration. It is an edible mushroom, and many people take a supplement daily as part of a routine over weeks or months. Human research on long-term supplement use is limited, so follow the label, review your use from time to time and speak to your GP if you have any concerns.
How long should you take lion's mane?
Lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a food mushroom, so it has no official dosing schedule in the UK. Supplements are regulated as food, and labels give a daily amount rather than a course length.
Human studies on lion's mane supplements are relatively few, small and short, as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center's herb summary reflects: MSKCC. That means there is little evidence either way about very long-term use.
Can you take lion's mane every day?
Many people take lion's mane daily, often with breakfast. Daily use within the label dose is how most products are designed to be taken.
If you take it every day, stick to one product so you know your total, and avoid combining several products that contain lion's mane, such as capsules plus a mushroom coffee.
Our capsules review covers what to look for in a daily product.
Read: our lion's mane capsules review.
How do you build a steady lion's mane routine?
With any daily supplement, consistency is easier when it is linked to an existing habit, such as breakfast or your morning coffee.
Keep the pouch where you will see it, reseal it after use and store it somewhere cool and dry.
If you use more than one lion's mane product, such as capsules and a mushroom drink, add up the totals so you stay within the label dose of each.
A short note of when you started and what you take helps if you later speak to a pharmacist or GP.
There is no need to change the amount over time. Follow the same label dose for as long as you take it.
How long can I take lion's mane before reviewing it?
A sensible approach with any supplement is to review it every couple of months. Ask yourself whether it still fits your routine and budget, and whether anything about your health or medicines has changed.
If you start a new medicine, become pregnant or plan an operation, mention lion's mane to your GP or pharmacist.
Should you take breaks from lion's mane?
There is no official advice on cycling lion's mane. Some people take breaks out of personal preference, for example when travelling. Missing a few days is not a problem; just carry on at the label dose when you restart, without doubling up.
Does extract or powder change how long you take it?
The duration question is the same whether you use powder or extract, but the amount per serving differs. An extract ratio such as 15:1 tells you how much mushroom went into the extract.
Our guide to mushroom extracts explains the different forms.
Read: a guide to functional mushroom extracts.
Who should check with a GP first?
Speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking lion's mane if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a mushroom allergy, take medicines for blood sugar or blood clotting, or have an operation planned.
Stop and seek advice if you feel unwell.
What dose does the Hyoomen product state?
Hyoomen Lion's Mane states 500 mg of 15:1 extract per capsule, equivalent to 7,500 mg of raw mushroom.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I take lion's mane?
There is no official limit. Follow the label and review your use every couple of months.
How long does lion's mane last once opened?
Use it by the date on the pouch, and reseal it after each use.
Can I take lion's mane long term?
There is limited research on long-term use. Follow the label and review with your GP if you have concerns.
Do I need to cycle it?
There is no official advice on cycling.
What if I miss a few days?
Carry on at the label dose. Do not double up.
Is it different for powder?
Duration is the same question; the amount per serving differs.
Is it fine to take lion's mane with coffee every day?
Many people do. Check that your coffee does not also contain lion's mane, so you do not double up.
Does the amount change over time?
No. Follow the same label dose for as long as you take it.
Can I take it while breastfeeding?
There is not enough information. Speak to your GP or health visitor first.
What should I do if I start a new medicine?
Tell your GP or pharmacist about lion's mane so they can advise you.
Can I take it alongside ashwagandha?
Many people take several supplements together. Check each label and ask a pharmacist if you take medicines.
Should I stop before surgery?
Tell your medical team about any supplements before an operation.
Related reading: When to Take Lion's Mane: Morning, Night or With Food?.
Important
This article is general information, not medical advice. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medication or under medical supervision, speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking a supplement. Do not exceed the stated recommended daily dose.