ADHD and Lion's Mane - My Search for The Best Natural Supplement for ADHD Symptoms
In a world where focus and cognitive challenges are on the rise, the quest for the best supplement for ADHD is more pertinent than ever. Lion's Mane Mushroom has emerged as a frontrunner, showcasing promising attributes that are leading many ADHD diagnosed individuals to experiment with it whilst searching for natural solutions and strategies to manage ADHD.
I discovered to Lion's Mane over a year ago whilst looking for the perfect stack of natural supplements that fulfilled my needs... I wanted something that would boost my dopamine levels, kickstart my busy days on the right foot and keep me on task and focussed for the daily activites I needed to do, but that my brain didn't find exciting enough to activitate my ADHD Hyper Focus superpower. If you have ADHD too, then you'll know exactly what I'm talking about here!
I found a number of supplements helped and others that didn't help at all. Front runners for me initially, were L-Tyrosine and the adaptogenic herbs rhodiola and ashwagandha. The problem I encountered with L-Tyrosine though, was that whilst it certainly did the job in keeping me on task during the day, when I stopped using it, I suffered an almighty dopamine crash. The result was that the benefits of using it, for me, were effectively cancelled out by unproductive crash that followed. I didn't want any supplement that might have similar consequences if I stopped using it. I value freedom and don't want to feel 'tied down' to any particular supplement for fear of what would happen if I stop using it!
When I discovered Lion's Mane Mushroom powder and added it to my morning coffee, I knew I had found something really special. I felt more clear headed, I was alert but not wired or jittery, I was able to respond without reacting and there was no crash, whether I used it every day or not. I found msyelf feeling present and calm, and from this space came increased creativity AND productivity, I also felt sure that the quality of my work had levelled up coniderably.
In fact, it worked so well that I recommended it to friends who all also found themselves marvelling at the benefits some of them did not have ADHD, but they DID want to feel more productive and experience increased clarity in their everyday lives too.
My friend Helen and I were so impressed, together, we decided that the wonders of lions mane needed sharing further. We found that most of the functional mushroom products on the market were incredibly expensive and this made them inaccessible to many. So we started our own business, sourcing fantastic high quality lion's mane powder, and selling it online at honest prices. And here we are with Potley's Apothecary - all thanks to Lion's Mane Mushroom Powder!
We soon learned more about other functional mushrooms and fell in love with everything that magical world of fungi has to offer us all and our planet. We started experimenting to create what we wanted to be the ultimate blend of mushrooms and herbs. One that combined ALL the wonderful gifts that functional mushrooms have to offer us, we wanted a product that would support everyone, whether neurotypical or 'neurospicy', to participate in the flow of life with increased but calmly managed productivity, healthy nervous systems, strong immunity and optimum physical health. The result was Potley's Potion no, 8 'Flow & Glow'. (Find out more about how to super-charge your morning coffee and cacao with this magical booster by following the link!)
So - Is there Science to Using Lion's Mane for ADHD? Or is its Popularity with ADHD-ers Down to Anecdotal Evidence Only?
In the realm of natural remedies for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Lion's Mane mushroom has been gaining attention for its potential benefits in promoting nervous system health and regulation, mental clarity, sustaining focus, improving memory and reducing stress. This list of potential benefits will immediately make it clear to anyone with ADHD to see why so many people are experimenting with Lion's Mane to support a holistic or natural ADHD management strategy. This fascinating fungus, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, has been the subject of numerous studies, shedding light on its positive impact on cognitive function and mental well-being.
Nervous System Health and Regulation: Research suggests that Lion's Mane mushroom may play a pivotal role in supporting the nervous system. The mushroom contains compounds known as hericenones and erinacines, which have been shown to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF is a protein crucial for the growth, maintenance, and survival of nerve cells. By promoting NGF synthesis, Lion's Mane may contribute to the overall health and regulation of the nervous system, potentially offering benefits for individuals with ADHD.
Clearing Brain Fog and Enhancing Mental Clarity: One of the intriguing aspects of Lion's Mane mushroom is its association with the reduction of brain fog, a common complaint among those with ADHD. Studies have proposed that Lion's Mane may enhance cognitive function by supporting the growth of neurons and improving the efficiency of neural transmission. This, in turn, could lead to clearer thinking and improved mental clarity, providing relief for individuals experiencing the cognitive challenges associated with ADHD.
Sustained Focus Throughout the Day: Another noteworthy attribute of Lion's Mane mushroom is its potential to help individuals maintain focus throughout the day. Some researchers believe that the mushroom's impact on nerve growth and myelination – the process of forming a protective sheath around nerve fibers – may contribute to sustained attention and concentration. This could be particularly beneficial for individuals with ADHD, who often struggle with maintaining focus over extended periods.
Memory Enhancement: Research also indicates that Lion's Mane may have memory-enhancing properties. The mushroom's ability to promote NGF production and support neural growth suggests a potential role in improving memory function. For individuals with ADHD, who may experience challenges with working memory and retention, incorporating Lion's Mane into their routine could be a promising avenue for memory support.
Calmness and Stress Reduction: Furthermore, Lion's Mane mushroom has been linked to stress reduction and the promotion of a calm mental state. Some studies suggest that the mushroom's impact on the nervous system may help regulate stress-related hormones. This calming effect could be particularly beneficial for individuals with ADHD, as stress management is often a crucial aspect of overall well-being for those dealing with attention and hyperactivity challenges.
Conclusion
While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and long-term effects of Lion's Mane mushroom on ADHD, the existing scientific evidence paints a compelling picture of its potential benefits for nervous system health, cognitive function, and overall well-being. Incorporating Lion's Mane into a holistic approach to managing ADHD symptoms may offer individuals a natural and promising avenue for support. As always, it's advisable to consult with healthcare professionals before introducing new supplements into one's routine, especially for those managing neurological conditions like ADHD.
Important! Finding your Own Natural ADHD Management Strategy Requires a HOLISTIC Approach, supplements can help - but you need to be KIND to yourself and CURIOUS too!
It's true I attribute a huge part of my succesfull ADHD management strategy to Lion's Mane and especially my daily does of our Flow & Glow Adaptogenic Coffee & Cacao booster (with 6 functional mushrooms, plus adaptogenci herbs, Ashwagandha and Rhodiola). However, I must stress that the success of my own natural ADHD management strategy also includes many other factors.
These include sleep hygiene, optimising my nutrition, regular excercise, learning and deep enquiry into my triggers, educating myself about how our nervous systems work and a lot of mindfulness practice! Everyone has their own unique profile and there is no one size fits all.
THE most important thing I've learned is to be kind to yourself! Treat youself like a best friend, don't beat yourself up about your limitations, HONOUR your capacity, remember you have super powers too and most of yor limitations will have work arounds, you just have to find them!
Deep self-enquiry is an adventure so enjoy it and relish in learngin more about YOU! I haven't mentioned pharmaceutical meds becuase I don't know enough about them. I know they help many people and I wouldn't advocate for or against anything I don't know about myself. Do what works for you and don't worry about anything or anyone else!
Here's to thriving with Lion's Mane, the best functional mushroom for ADHD!
Lion's Mane Extract Capsules 30% Polysaccharides
Flow & Glow 6 Mushrooms Adaptogenic Coffee & Cacao Booster.
References
Whilst our personal experience with Lion's Mane Mushroom is valuable, it's essential to note that individual responses to supplements can vary, and scientific research is ongoing to fully understand the impact of Lion's Mane on ADHD. However, there is some preliminary research that suggests potential benefits. Here are a few studies related to my post.
1. Nervous System Health and Regulation:
Study:Mori, K., Obara, Y., Moriya, T., Inatomi, S., & Nakahata, N. (2008). Effects of Hericium erinaceus on amyloid β(25–35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice. Biomedical Research, 29(6), 281–287.
Summary:This study suggests that Lion's Mane may have neuroprotective effects, potentially contributing to nervous system health.
2. Clearing Brain Fog and Enhancing Mental Clarity:
StudyWong, K. H., Naidu, M., David, R. P., Abdulla, M. A., Abdullah, N., & Kuppusamy, U. R. (2012). Peripheral nerve regeneration following crush injury to rat peroneal nerve by aqueous extract of medicinal mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr) Pers. (Aphyllophoromycetideae). Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012.
Summary: This study suggests potential neuroregenerative properties of Lion's Mane, supporting the idea of improved cognitive function.
3. Sustained Focus Throughout the Day:
Study:Nagano, M., Shimizu, K., Kondo, R., Hayashi, C., Sato, D., Kitagawa, K., & Ohnuki, K. (2010). Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomedical Research, 31(4), 231–237.
Summary: The study indicates that Lion's Mane may have mood-related benefits, which could indirectly contribute to sustained focus and attention.
4. Memory Enhancement:
Study: Li, G., Yu, K., Li, F., Xu, K., Li, J., & He, S. (2015). Antidepressant-like effects of Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) in mice models of depression. Biomed Research International, 2015.
Summary: This study suggests potential antidepressant effects of Lion's Mane, which may indirectly impact memory and cognitive function.
5. Calmness and Stress Reduction:
Study: Phan, C. W., David, P., Sabaratnam, V., Wong, K. H., & Naidu, M. (2014). Therapeutic potential of culinary-medicinal mushrooms for the management of neurodegenerative diseases: diversity, metabolite, and mechanism. Critical Reviews in Biotechnology, 35(3), 355–368.
Summary: The study discusses the potential therapeutic effects of Lion's Mane and other mushrooms on neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting a role in stress management.
While these studies provide some insights into the potential benefits of Lion's Mane, we acknowledge that more research is needed for conclusive evidence, my story is based on my personal results and experience and the anecdotes of those I know personally who feel they have benefitted from Lion's Mane, individual responses will vary. Always consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating new supplements into your routine, especially when managing neurological conditions like ADHD.