Lion's mane in coffee: trend or true health hack?

What is lion’s mane?

Before we explore why you might want to use lion’s mane powder in coffee, let’s back up a step and introduce the ingredient. Lion’s mane is a species of medicinal mushroom that grows on dead hardwood trees in Europe, Asia, and North America. Known more formally as Hericium erinaceus, it gets its common name from its striking mass of cream-coloured tendrils. These hang in shaggy clumps that resemble an old man’s beard, pom-pom, or (you guessed it!) lion’s mane.

Practitioners of traditional medicine systems have been harnessing the medicinal benefits of lion’s mane for generations. And today, modern scientific research is finding evidence to back up its ability to support different aspects of wellness. As well as taking it in supplement form, many people choose to use lion’s mane powder in coffee or tea. You might even have spotted lion’s mane mushroom coffee on the menu at your local coffee shop.

Some of the benefits of lion’s mane are common to all mushrooms. For example, it’s a high-quality source of protein and fibre, plus it’s rich in B vitamins and vitamin D. These nutrients all play key roles in our overall wellbeing. However, for most of us, this alone probably wouldn’t justify using lion’s mane in coffee. So why do we? Well, the ingredient possesses some impressive advantages that go above and beyond its nutritional value. That’s what classifies it as a functional fungus rather than a standard mushroom. Here are some of the ways it could enhance your cup of joe.

The health benefits of lion’s mane

Using lion’s mane powder in coffee could have many positive influences on our wellbeing. Several of these relate to the brain and our mental health. First, the mushroom contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which have the ability to stimulate the growth of brain cells. What’s more, it can also encourage the growth and repair of nerve cells. This may explain why studies have found that lion’s mane supports cognitive functions and protects against neurodegenerative conditions.

In addition, making mushroom coffee with lion’s mane might help balance your mood. Research shows that the fungus eases symptoms of anxiety, depression, and irritability.(2) There are a few reasons for this. For example, the mushroom acts as an anti-inflammatory, and chronic inflammation contributes to depression. Further, it can stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), low levels of which are often seen in people with the condition. And, like all functional fungi, lion’s mane is an adaptogen. That means it reduces the negative effects of all kinds of stress on the mind and body.

It’s not only your brain that stands to benefit if you consume lion’s mane powder in coffee. The ingredient could also support cardiovascular health by lowering triglyceride levels and inhibiting the oxidation of cholesterol in the blood.(3) Plus, it contains a compound called hericenone B that lessens the risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. Lion’s mane additionally possesses antioxidant properties, meaning it may lower the chance of developing heart disease by tackling oxidative stress.

Finally, using lion’s mane powder in coffee could help support the immune system. One reason for this is it nourishes the beneficial bacteria in your gut – where many of your immune cells are.(4)

Using lion’s mane in coffee

That explains why lion’s mane mushroom coffee is becoming so popular. Next, let’s look at the practicalities of how to enjoy it. The good news is that you don’t have to go foraging or spend ages preparing fresh fungi! Instead, the easiest option is to use lion’s mane powder in coffee brewed whichever way you prefer.

The first way you can do this is by purchasing a ready-made mix of lion’s mane and coffee. Then all you need to do is use that in place of regular coffee in your AeroPress, cafetière, or moka pot. These premixed mushroom coffees are usually lower in caffeine than normal coffee, because fungi powder doesn’t contain any. That means they could be a great choice for people who are sensitive to the stimulant.

Alternatively, you might like to make your own by using lion’s mane powder in coffee you have at home. This is often cheaper, plus allows you to regulate exactly how much of the fungus you put in. What’s more, you can mix it into your favourite brand of coffee and adjust the drink’s strength to suit you. You could also add the powder to a latte, flat white, mocha, cappuccino, or other barista-style brew.

In terms of taste, using lion’s mane powder in coffee gives the beverage an earthy, nutty undertone. It’s a subtle difference, and some people don’t even notice it. Depending on how you make it, you may find the last few sips of fungi drinks are a little grainy. That’s because the powder hasn’t fully dissolved – stirring your cup thoroughly can help you avoid this. At the end of the day, if you’re a fan of coffee, then you’ll probably enjoy lion’s mane mushroom coffee!