As many of us will be aware, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects around 1
in 20 children and adults in Australia, and while medication is a common treatment option, some individuals may want to seek natural alternatives. Lion’s Mane mushroom is an effective, organic treatment that has been shown to have a range of potential benefits for those who struggle with ADHD. In this post, we will explore the benefits of Lion’s Mane mushrooms for ADHD and its potential to improve focus and attention.
What is ADHD and What Causes It?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals of all ages but is typically diagnosed in childhood. ADHD is characterised by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to function at school, work, or in social settings.
Symptoms of inattention in ADHD may include difficulty paying attention, forgetfulness, and being easily distracted, while symptoms of hyperactivity may include restlessness, fidgeting, and difficulty sitting still. Impulsivity symptoms may include interrupting others, blurting out answers, and acting without thinking through the consequences.
ADHD is a complex condition that can have a variety of causes, including genetic factors, environmental factors, and brain chemistry.
What is the Best Mushroom for ADHD?
While there are many types of functional mushrooms that have potential benefits for ADHD, Lion’s Mane mushroom is often considered the best option due to its ability to improve cognitive function and its potential to improve focus and attention.
The Benefits of Lion's Mane Mushrooms for ADHD
Lion’s Mane mushroom, also known as Hericium erinaceus, is a powerful medicinal mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to balance and strengthen cognitive function. Recent research suggests that Lion’s Mane mushrooms may have potential benefits for individuals with ADHD.
Lion’s Mane mushrooms contain compounds called polysaccharides, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects which work to improve cognitive function, including focus andattention.
Further research has shown that Lion’s Mane improved cognitive function in adults with mild cognitive impairment, and improved cognitive function and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in mice.
It is thought that the compounds found in lion’s mane mushroom, such as hericenones and
erinacines, may be responsible for its beneficial effects on brain function. These compounds have been shown to stimulate the growth and repair of nerve cells in the brain, which may help improve focus, attention, and overall mental function.
Does Lion's Mane Help You Focus?
Recent studies suggest that Lion’s Mane mushrooms may have potential benefits for focus
and attention. One study conducted on healthy adults found that taking Lion’s Mane extract improved cognitive function, including attention and focus. Another study conducted on individuals with mild cognitive impairment found that Lion’s Mane extract improved cognitive function and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.
By increasing nerve growth factor levels, Lion’s Mane mushroom may help to enhance the function and communication of neurons in the brain, leading to improved cognitive performance, including focus, attention, and memory. Additionally, lion’s mane mushroom has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can also help to protect the brain from damage and support overall brain health.
Additional Benefits of Lion's Mane Mushrooms
Further to its potential benefits for ADHD, Lion’s Mane mushrooms have been shown to have various additional health benefits including reduced improved immune function, better quality sleep, and calming effects on depression and anxiety.
Lion’s mane mushroom has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the brain and protect against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and also contains compounds that may promote the regeneration of nerve cells and axons – very beneficial for individuals with nerve damage or conditions that affect nerve function.
How to Incorporate Lion's Mane Mushrooms into Your Diet
Lion’s Mane mushrooms are available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and extracts. The recommended dosage may vary depending on the form of the supplement and the individual’s health needs – for our super blends, we recommend ½ teaspoon mixed into a beverage of your choice to begin. As always, we want to remind you that it is incredibly important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Summary
Lion’s Mane mushroom has demonstrated potential benefits for those with ADHD, particularly in improving focus and attention. Daniel (one of Mush Mush’s co-founders) absolutely swears by Lion’s Mane for focus and concentration throughout the day, which is why you will find it in a range of our morning-focused super blends.
The compounds found in Lion’s Mane mushrooms, such as hericenones and erinacines, work to stimulate the growth and repair of nerve cells in the brain, leading to improved cognitive function,
increased focus, and general slaying of your day! Our super blends containing Lion’s Mane are a natural and effective option for those seeking an alternative to medication for managing symptoms of ADHD.