Hericium erinaceus: How it helps fight fatigue

Published:December 24, 2024Viktor4 min readLion's mane

Lion's mane mushroom combats fatigue by supporting mitochondrial energy metabolism, reducing inflammation-related exhaustion, improving gut-brain axis function, and stimulating NGF production that enhances neural efficiency and reduces mental tiredness.

Hericium erinaceus is a well-known medicinal mushroom grown in China and other eastern countries. Polysaccharides extracted from this mushroom have attracted considerable attention due to their numerous physiological effects. Research conducted by the Wuhan Institute of Physical Culture and the Central-South University of Nationalities (
As usual, the subjects were divided into groups: a control group, a low-dose group (50 mg/kg), a medium-dose group (100 mg/kg), and a high-dose group (200 mg/kg). The treatment groups received Hericium erinaceus

The main active compounds studied include polysaccharides, lectins, proteins, lipids, hericenones, erinacins and terpenoids. Polysaccharides from Hericium erinaceus have shown significant anti-fatigue activity by reducing blood lactic acid (BLA), blood urea nitrogen (SUN)

Effect of Hericium erinaceus on the duration of exhausting swimming – Lion's mane

The Hericium erinaceus group showed a significant increase in the duration of the fatiguing swim.In the low-dose group, the duration of swimming increased by 18.15%, in the medium-dose group by 37.18%, and in the high-dose group by 58.46% compared to the control group. This means that the mice were able to swim longer

Effect of Hericium erinaceus on blood lactic acid (BLA) and blood urea nitrogen (SUN)

Blood lactic acid levels, an indicator of fatigue and muscle fatigue, were reduced by 16.43% in the low-dose group, 28.90% in the medium-dose group, and 52.13% in the high-dose Hericium group

Effect of Hericium erinaceus on glycogen content in liver and muscle – Lion's mane

Glycogen is an important source of energy stored in the liver and muscles. Glycogen content increased significantly in subjects treated with Hericium erinaceus: by 18.43% in the low-dose group, by 35.79% in the medium-dose group, and by

Effect of Hericium erinaceus on SOD and GPx activity in liver and muscle

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) are antioxidant enzymes that protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. SOD activity increased significantly in mice treated with Hericium erinaceus: 21.45% in the low-dose group, 36.78

Effect of Hericium erinaceus on MDA content in muscle and liver

Malondialdehyde (MDA) is an indicator of oxidative stress and cell damage.MDA content was significantly decreased in mice treated with Hericium erinaceus: 15.23% in the low-dose group, 28.67% in the medium-dose group, and 43.89% in the high-dose group compared to the control group.

So, to reduce fatigue during exercise and improve endurance during sports, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat a balanced diet and consume Hericium erinaceus, which will significantly increase your performance.

Practical Application for People Experiencing Fatigue

For people dealing with fatigue in daily life, whether physical or cognitive, Lion's Mane is most relevant as a consistent supportive addition to a lifestyle that is also addressing the primary contributors to low energy. Poor sleep, nutritional deficiencies, and excessive sedentary time are the most common drivers of fatigue, and none of them are resolved by a mushroom alone. Lion's Mane may contribute to more resilient energy over the course of a day and clearer cognitive function during mentally demanding work, which is where many people feel fatigue most acutely. Adding it to a morning routine alongside adequate protein, hydration, and at least thirty minutes of light movement creates a much stronger baseline for energy than supplementation alone. For people recovering from illness or an extended period of high stress, Lion's Mane fits naturally as part of a broader recovery protocol that includes rest, nutrition, and gradual reintroduction of activity. The anti-fatigue properties documented in research translate most reliably to real-life benefit when the other fundamentals are at least reasonably in place. Track energy levels at consistent times across a four to six week period to gauge whether the routine is making a difference.You can also buy them in our store.
1.Lion's mane fruits
2.Lion's mane capsules
3.Lion's mane extract

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lion's mane?

Lion's mane is a functional mushroom used in traditional and modern wellness practices for its health-supporting properties.

How do you use Lion's mane?

Lion's mane is commonly available as extracts, tinctures, capsules, or dried preparations — the best form depends on your health goals and lifestyle.

Is Lion's mane safe?

Lion's mane is generally considered safe for healthy adults at recommended doses, but always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.

Sources

Mori K, et al. Nerve growth factor-inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus. Biol Pharm Bull. 2008. PMID 18296328
Lai PL, et al. Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2013. PMID 24266378