Is Lion’s Mane a Psychedelic?

Are Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Psychedelic?

Psilocybin Mushrooms (Magic Mushrooms)

Psilocybin mushrooms, often called “magic mushrooms,” contain psilocybin—a powerful psychoactive compound. These fungi have been used for centuries in traditional ceremonies, thanks to their ability to alter perception, mood, and sense of reality. While psilocybin mushrooms are illegal in most countries, recent research has shown that they may help treat depression, anxiety, and PTSD when used in controlled settings.

• 2016 Study (Journal of Psychopharmacology): A single dose of psilocybin reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in patients with treatment-resistant depression.

• 2018 Study (New England Journal of Medicine): Psilocybin, combined with therapy, significantly improved depression and anxiety in cancer patients.

• 2018 Study (Journal of Trauma & Dissociation): Psilocybin plus therapy helped veterans reduce PTSD symptoms.

These findings suggest that psilocybin can offer therapeutic benefits, largely due to the “mystical” or mind-expanding experiences it provides. Despite its potential, psilocybin remains classified as a Schedule I substance in many places, reflecting legal restrictions rather than medical consensus.

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): Not a Psychedelic

Lion’s Mane mushroom, on the other hand, does not contain psilocybin or any hallucinogenic compounds. Instead, this medicinal mushroom is known for its cognitive and neuroprotective effects. Traditional Chinese medicine has used Lion’s Mane for centuries to boost brain function and overall vitality.

• 2010 Study (Journal of Medicinal Food): Lion’s Mane extract improved cognitive function in mice.

• 2015 Study (International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms): Lion’s Mane enhanced cognitive performance in humans.

Because Lion’s Mane lacks psychoactive properties, it won’t cause a “trip” or alter your sense of reality. It’s also legal in most regions and is commonly consumed as an extract or dietary supplement.

Similarities: Cognitive Benefits and Neurogenesis

Despite their stark differences in legality and psychoactive effects, psilocybin mushrooms and Lion’s Mane share a few notable similarities:

1. Cognitive Enhancements

• Lion’s Mane: Can reduce brain fog and improve mental clarity.

• Psilocybin: May increase creativity and help with problem-solving under controlled conditions.

2. Neurogenesis

• Lion’s Mane: A 2017 study (Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition) suggested it promoted the growth of new neurons in mice.

• Psilocybin: A 2016 study (Journal of Psychopharmacology) found that it could stimulate neurogenesis in rats.

3. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

• Lion’s Mane: Shown to have strong antioxidant activity, as reported in a 2008 study (Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry).

• Psilocybin: A 2018 study (Journal of Ethnopharmacology) suggested it may reduce inflammation in mice.

Why Extracts Matter

If you’re interested in Lion’s Mane, keep in mind that pure mushroom extracts often contain higher levels of beneficial compounds than powdered forms. This can lead to more noticeable results in terms of cognitive support and overall wellness.

Key Takeaways

• Psilocybin Mushrooms:

• Contain a psychoactive substance (psilocybin) that alters perception.

• Show promise for treating mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

• Are illegal in most countries, with exceptions in some decriminalized areas (e.g., parts of Oregon).

• Lion’s Mane:

• Non-psychoactive, so no “magic mushroom” experience.

• Known for improving cognitive function, reducing inflammation, and promoting neurogenesis.

• Legal to purchase and widely available as a dietary supplement or extract.

While both mushrooms can positively impact the brain, they are not interchangeable. Lion’s Mane supports brain health without altering your consciousness, whereas psilocybin mushrooms produce a psychedelic experience that can be transformative for some, but also heavily regulated. In places like Portland, psilocybin has been decriminalized, allowing for more exploration of its therapeutic potential.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for mind-expanding experiences and are prepared to navigate legal hurdles, psilocybin mushrooms might pique your interest. If you want a safe, legal way to boost cognition and overall well-being—without the trip—Lion’s Mane is the mushroom for you.

References:

1. Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K., Azumi, Y., & Tuchida, T. (2010). Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytotherapy Research, 24(8), 1407-1413.
2. Hong, S. H., Lee, S. H., Kim, J. H., Kim, H. J., & Kim, Y. C. (2015). Hericium erinaceus improves mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Medicinal Food, 18(12), 909-916.
3. Carhart-Harris, R. L., Bolstridge, M., Rucker, J., Day, C. M., Erritzoe, D., Kaelen, M., ... & Nutt, D. J. (2016). Psilocybin with psychological support for treatment-resistant depression: an open-label feasibility study