Can Mushrooms Really Boost Your Brainpower? Here’s What Science (and Your Body) Says

ByBob Burns

Updated April 23, 2025

The Mushrooms That Might Be Smarter Than You Think

Let’s get one thing out of the way: we’re not talking about the psychedelic kind. The mushrooms showing up in brain health research are the functional or medicinal ones—think lion’s mane, cordyceps, and reishi. These mushrooms aren’t new, either. They’ve been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and other herbal practices for centuries. What’s new is that modern science is starting to unpack why they may work—and how.

Lion’s Mane: The Brain Builder

If mushrooms had a spokesperson for brain health, lion’s mane would probably be it. This fluffy, white mushroom looks a bit like a shaggy pom-pom—and it’s earned a reputation for possibly boosting cognitive function.

Lion’s mane contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which may stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF)—a protein that helps grow and protect neurons (nerve cells). That’s a big deal, especially when we think about aging brains and the risk of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Some early research has shown promising results. In a 2009 double-blind study from Japan, older adults with mild cognitive impairment showed improved cognitive scores after taking lion’s mane supplements for 16 weeks—though the effects disappeared when they stopped taking it. That means consistent use might matter. See NIH article for more.

Still, experts agree: more high-quality human trials are needed. But hey, if you’re trying to stay mentally sharp, it might be worth talking to a doctor about giving lion’s mane a shot.

Reishi: The Chill One

Reishi is often called the “mushroom of immortality,” but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. While it won’t make you live forever, it might help your brain ride the stress rollercoaster a little smoother.

This mushroom has adaptogenic properties—basically, it helps the body adapt to stress. Chronic stress has a known connection to cognitive issues like memory loss and mental fatigue. By helping to calm the nervous system, reishi might reduce that wear-and-tear on the brain.

In fact, animal studies have shown that reishi may protect neurons from damage and reduce brain inflammation linked to oxidative stress. While we can’t directly translate mouse brains to human brains, it does support what traditional practices have claimed for years. For a deeper dive, check this USDA study.

Cordyceps: The Energy Booster (Yes, Even for Your Brain)

If brain fog is your main nemesis, cordyceps might be the mushroom to watch. Traditionally used for physical stamina, this fungus is now being explored for how it might help mental clarity too.

Cordyceps can support ATP production—that’s your body’s energy currency—and help increase oxygen use. More energy and better oxygen flow can mean a sharper, more focused mind, especially during stressful workdays or periods of burnout.

A small study of older adults showed cordyceps supplements improved exercise performance and reduced fatigue, suggesting a potential benefit for both physical and mental energy. More details on that here via the NIH.

OK, So Should You Start Taking Mushroom Supplements?

Here’s the part where we slow down for a second. Yes, there’s some exciting potential in these fungi, but it’s not magic. Not every brain is going to react the same way, and quality matters a ton when it comes to supplements.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Purity and sourcing are everything. Some mushroom powders are just ground-up mycelium (the root system), which may not contain the active compounds you’re after. Look for products that specify “fruiting body extract.”
• Talk to a healthcare provider, especially if you have a condition like depression, anxiety, or are taking medications that could interact with herbal products.
• Start slow. Not just in dosage, but in expectations. While some people feel mentally “clearer” within days, for others it’s more of a long game.

Also, not everyone should take mushroom supplements. People with autoimmune conditions, for example, may need to be cautious. And if you’re pregnant or nursing? Definitely check with your provider first.

Whole Mushroom or Capsule? Let’s Talk Form

You don’t have to pop pills to reap the brain benefits of mushrooms. There are tons of fun ways to try them out: mushroom coffee blends, powders for smoothies, even teas.

That said, the dosage of active compounds tends to be higher and more consistent in concentrated extracts or capsules. So, if you’re using mushrooms to support something like memory or focus, going the supplement route might make more sense than, say, sprinkling reishi into your stew.

The Takeaway

Mushrooms are having a moment—and for good reason. From lion’s mane helping with neuron growth to reishi supporting stress resilience and cordyceps giving you an energy edge, they’ve got a lot of potential for brain health.

But here’s the real deal: they’re not a replacement for solid sleep, movement, hydration, or a diet that fuels your body and mind. Instead, think of these mushrooms as part of your brain care toolbox—an interesting add-on, not a magic bullet.

If you’re curious (and your doctor’s cool with it), trying out functional mushrooms could be a smart move. Just remember, your brain is one of a kind—so your best path to supporting it might be, too.

Sources:

• National Institutes of Health (NIH): Lion’s Mane Cognitive Study
• United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): Medicinal Mushroom Research
• National Library of Medicine: Cordyceps and Energy Metabolism