A pile of lion's mane mushrooms with a bottle of Novomins Lions Mane is the middle

How Long Does Lion's Mane Take to Work? The Ultimate Guide

Are you feeling stressed or anxious? Or perhaps you’re experiencing brain fog and a decrease in productivity that’s affecting not just your work life but also your day-to-day? If you’re looking for a natural solution to address these issues and boost your general health, Novomins Lion’s Mane Gummies may be what you’re looking for. 

Revered in traditional medicine for centuries, this unassuming fungus is setting the health and wellness world on fire — and we’re not surprised. 

What it might lack in appearance, this large and shaggy mushroom more than makes up for in health benefits, including improved brain function and reduced stress and anxiety. But just how long does lion’s mane take to work? Does lion's mane work straight away? And what are its effects? 

Stick with us and carry on reading to find out everything there is to know about this super mushroom.

What is Lion’s Mane?

Lion’s mane is a large white mushroom with a curious, tufty, almost beard-like appearance that grows on the trunks of dead hardwood trees. Found in the forests of Europe, North America and Asia, it’s also known as hericium erinaceus and has been used in traditional Eastern medicine and cooking for centuries thanks to its many health-boosting properties.

Composed of two parts (the visible fruiting body and the mycelium, which resembles the root), lion’s mane contains bioactive substances that are great for the body, including the brain, heart and stomach. 

In fact, studies have shown that Lion’s Mane can promote nerve growth and protect the nerves from being damaged, improving cognition and brain function and even protecting the brain from Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. That’s because it’s a natural nootropic, which is used to treat memory and learning disorders and improve brain health and function. 

It can also enhance mood, providing relief from common mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Plus, it contains antioxidants which protect against cell damage that can lead to ageing and cancer.

But that’s not all. This wonder fungi reduces the risk of heart disease, can boost the immune system and can even improve gut health. It does this by preventing ulcers in the digestive tract and protecting the stomach lining from inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s by halting harmful Helicobacter pylori bacteria in its tracks.

How long does it take for lion's mane to work?

Delivery Method 

Dosage

Time it takes to work

Gummies

2 gummies daily 

Varies per individual, taking anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months. 


Works best when taken regularly.

Capsules

1-2 capsules daily with food 

Varies per individual, taking anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months. 


Works best when taken regularly.


Capsules tend to be more potent than gummies or powders, so effects should be felt sooner.

Powders

1-3 grams per serving (usually 1 scoop of powder once a day)

Varies per individual, taking anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months. 


Powders are typically less potent compared to capsules or extracts, so effects may take longer to see.

Extracts

1 capsule daily

Varies per individual, taking anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months. 


Extracts are more powerful than powders and tend to have a more concentrated dose, which could lead to faster effects.

Coffee

One scoop once a day

Varies per individual, taking anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months. 


Powdered coffees are typically less potent compared to capsules or extracts, so effects may take longer to see.

Tincture 

2-4 droppers a day, once a day (2 ml)

Varies per individual, taking anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months. 


They usually contain a concentrated dose of Lion’s Mane extract, making them more powerful compared to powders, teas and coffees, with faster effects. 

Tea 

Add a 2g serving size to a cup 

Varies per individual, taking anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months. 


Powdered teas are typically less potent than capsules or extracts, so it may take longer before you feel any benefits.

Lion’s mane gummies

Gummies are a delicious, easy and convenient way to get your daily dose of lion’s mane’s health-boosting properties. 

Novomins Lion’s Mane Gummies come in a delicious orange flavour and easily fit into even the busiest daily routines. They are formulated with a high-strength dose of 2000 mg of lion’s mane alongside the added benefits of vitamins B6 and B12 and iodine. 

From improved nervous system regulation and enhanced brain and memory function to gastrointestinal health, enjoy 2 of these tasty halal and gelatin-free gummies daily for optimal effects and benefits. 

Lion’s mane capsules

Lion’s mane capsules are widely available throughout the UK and are another convenient way of getting a quick dose of this disease-fighting mushroom. 

Capsules tend to have concentrated doses of lion’s mane powder or extract. They are thought to be more quickly absorbed than other supplement formats, meaning you could see the effects much quicker. 

However, lion’s mane dosages vary from brand to brand, so it’s crucial to choose a capsule supplement with a high enough dosage to see quick and effective health benefits. 

Lion’s mane powders

Lion’s mane powders are made from dried mushrooms. They can be added to drinks — including water, tea, coffee and smoothies — baked goods and even meals like pasta and rice dishes. This makes powders an incredibly versatile way to enjoy this rare nootropic mushroom’s many health benefits. 

Lion’s mane extract

For a stronger kick, try a lion’s mane extract, which you can add to food or drink, or take on its own. 

Due to its potency, lion’s mane extract should take less time than powders. However, it can potentially cause some stomach discomfort for those who are not used to taking these fuzzy fungi due to their strength, so it’s recommended to start on a lower dose and work your way up.

Lion’s mane coffee

We all know that coffee is great for helping you wake up in the morning and get through those mid-day slumps, giving you a much-needed caffeine boost as you go about your day. But what if you could get all of that PLUS enhanced focus, memory and overall brain function? Thanks to lion’s mane coffee, you can. 

This therapeutic beverage will come in varying doses depending on the brand you purchase from and will most likely be weaker compared to capsules, tinctures and extracts. 

Lion’s mane tincture

Tinctures are one of the strongest forms of lion’s mane thanks to the extraction process, which removes a higher concentration of bioactive compounds, hericenones and erinacines, that can stimulate the growth of brain cells. 

Easy to take, tinctures have a higher absorption rate thanks to their liquid format, meaning you can see quicker effects compared to supplements, gummies or powders. 

They can be diluted in a drink of your choice or placed under the tongue for direct absorption into the bloodstream as opposed to capsules or gummies, which are mainly absorbed through the small intestine. 

Lion’s mane tea

Like powders, you can find lion’s mane in powdered or loose tea formats that are easy to prepare. 

Powdered teas can also be added to smoothies and coffees like regular lion’s mane powders, while some loose tea variants come infused with other complementary health-boosting ingredients like ginger, turmeric or peppermint. Again, strength and dosages will vary according to brand.

A tub of Lion’s Mane Gummies made by Novomins Nutrition

Buy Lions Mane 2000mg gummies today.

How does lion's mane make you feel?

As with any other supplement, taking lion’s mane regularly is essential to gain the full spectrum of health benefits. But exactly how long does lion’s mane take to kick in? And how do you know if lion's mane is working?

While it’s important to note the effects of lion’s mane are mild, many users report an increase in productivity and creativity levels, making them feel more focused at work and in daily life. They also describe feeling calmer, with lion’s mane alleviating the symptoms of mild anxiety, clearing up brain fog and even improving mood. 

Its calming and anti-anxiety properties can also contribute to better sleep, immunity and our second brain, the gut, which can be especially beneficial for those with inflammatory digestive disorders. 

But you don’t have to have a particular disorder or disease to feel the benefits of lion’s mane. A simple improvement in your overall well-being could be the signal you need to know it’s starting to take effect.

A natural and non-addictive supplement, most people can take lion’s mane without worrying about side effects. Studies on the impact of lion’s mane on animals show that it’s well tolerated with no serious effects, even at high doses. 

While lion’s mane is generally safe, there are some potential reactions you should be aware of, including stomach upsets, skin rash, nausea and headaches. 

Allergic to mushrooms? Then you should also probably stay clear altogether. The same goes for mums who are pregnant or breastfeeding due to a lack of scientific research into the effects on humans.

If you do experience any adverse reactions, stop consumption immediately and speak to your local GP.

How long should you take lion's mane for before it starts working?

You're probably thinking, this all sounds great! But how long before you start to see results? 

Good things take time and, unfortunately, no one answer fits all, with results varying from person to person. Some may feel the benefits almost immediately or after several days, while others may need several weeks or even 1-3 months of regular consumption before noticing any significant effects and reaping the longer-term benefits.

To keep you motivated, one study reported a decrease in anxiety and depression as well as an improvement in sleep disorders after eight weeks of daily consumption. Another study in Japan observed a significant increase in cognitive function among older men within eight weeks.

If you're new to taking lion's mane, it's best to start with a lower dose and work your way up over time. Not only will this let your body adjust to this nootropic, but it'll also make it easier to notice any significant effects on your body and health.

How long should you take lion’s mane before trying something different?

Patience, persistence, and regularity are key when it comes to supplements. Taking lion's mane is no different. While it would be great to see improvements within several days, the human body is more complex than that and improving your health and making long-lasting changes takes time. 

For example, one 2020 study reported a significant improvement in brain health in people with mild Alzheimer's after 49 weeks of daily lion's mane consumption. Forty-nine weeks may seem like a lot, but the result of this particular study is priceless when taking into account the awful effects of this disease. 

So don't be put off if your focus, memory, gut health or general health haven't turned a complete 180 straight away. It's important to be realistic, and you're not going to prevent cancer or feel a reduction in stress and anxiety after only taking them for a week. 

That being said, if you have been taking lion's mane regularly and at the correct dose for several months and you feel like it's just not working for you, it may be time to try something else. 

Make an appointment with your local GP to discuss alternatives that might better benefit you and your specific health concerns. Or take a look at Novomins’ wide range of supplements catering to just about every health goal, including improved focus.

Try Lions mane with Novomins

superhero of the fungi world, it’s hard not to be tempted by all the incredible health benefits of lion’s mane. But from more potent tinctures and extracts to gentler powders and teas, it’s easy to get confused and overwhelmed. 

Whatever you decide to go for, always opt for premium, organic ingredients to get the most health benefits from your supplement. And if you’re brand new to lion’s mane, it’s best to start on a lower dose and gradually work your way up to avoid any adverse side effects. 

Novomins Lion's Mane Gummies are perfect for individuals looking to enhance mental clarity and mood. They are also ideal for those aiming to improve gut health or simply prioritise self-care. If you dislike the taste of mushrooms or struggle with swallowing traditional capsules, these gummies are a great solution.

Easy and convenient, our high-strength gummies are formulated by doctors, scientists and nutritionists and contain 2000 mg of lion’s mane with added vitamins B6, B12 and iodine. 

Using only the highest-quality ingredients, our Lion’s Mane Gummies come in a yummy fruity orange flavour and are halal, NON-GMO, and sugar- and gelatin-free. They’re also free from artificial colours and preservatives, ensuring your body only gets the very best. 

Click here to browse the Novomins range today.

Lion’s mane FAQ’s

Does lion's mane work immediately?

While some people may feel a difference incredibly quickly after only a few days, this is rare. Most users will need to take lion's mane regularly for several weeks or 2-3 months before feeling a significant effect and reaping the long-term benefits.

References: 

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10384337/ 
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10675414/ 
  3. https://www.alzdiscovery.org/uploads/cognitive_vitality_media/Lions-Mane-Cognitive-Vitality-For-Researchers.pdf 
  4. https://www.alzdiscovery.org/uploads/cognitive_vitality_media/Lions-Mane-Cognitive-Vitality-For-Researchers.pdf 
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9415189/ 
  6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6982118/ 
  7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8950371/ 
  8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6044372/ 
  9. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2017/FO/C7FO00071E 
  10. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26933886/ 
  11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4944955/
  12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26364939
  13. https://learn.freshcap.com/tips/how-to-use-mushroom-powder/
  14. https://rritual.com/blogs/usage/how-much-lions-mane-should-i-take
  15. https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/drugs/administration-and-kinetics-of-drugs/drug-absorption
  16. https://mushies.co.uk/blogs/news/what-is-the-best-form-of-lions-mane-to-take-capsules-vs-tincture
  17. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10675414/
  18. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6500611/
  19. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2017/FO/C7FO00071E
  20. https://www.dl.begellhouse.com/journals/708ae68d64b17c52,2806f82d786f0ca1,6e9ef24864bd9e52.html
  21. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2020.00155/full
  22. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10344494
  23. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6982118/
  24. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.2634
  25. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7283924/

 

Share:

Back to blog

AUTHORED BY

image
Dr Peter McQuillan
BDS, MFDS P1, Dip Ortho Founder & Chief Formulator
With over 15 years of experience in the healthcare sector, Dr McQuillan is a highly esteemed professional in the healthcare space.

REVIEWED BY

image
Akil Memishi
BSc Hons Pharmacology, ICH GCP Founder & Chief Clinical Researcher
Akil Memishi, co-founder of Novomins, combines his extensive clinical research experience with a passion for developing scientifically-backed nutritional products.
Review Date:
3 February 2023
Next Review:
3 February 2025
Published On:
22 January 2024
Last Updated:
4 October 2023