Why Everyone’s Talking About Lion’s Mane (and Why I’m Kinda Obsessed)

By: Kayla Bloom, a 26-year-old trying to stay sharp, sane, and just a little bit glowy

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You ever walk into a room and instantly forget why you’re there?

Same.

I’m not even going to pretend I haven’t put almond butter in the fridge and stared into the microwave trying to remember what I was doing.

So when I first heard about Lion’s Mane—this fluffy-looking mushroom that’s supposed to help with focus, memory, and even mood—I was curious. Skeptical, but curious.

And now? I’m a little bit obsessed. Here’s why.👇

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🍄 So Wait, What Is Lion’s Mane?

Okay, it’s not a weird trend. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a real mushroom. Like, an actual fuzzy mushroom that grows on trees and looks like a pom-pom.

It’s been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, but more recently, modern science is like: “Wait… this stuff’s kinda legit.”

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🧠 The Science (Without Getting All Boring)

Let’s break it down like a smart girl chat over matcha:

• It helps your brain grow. No joke. Lion’s Mane stimulates Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)—a compound that helps your brain build and repair neurons.
  📚 Study here

• It supports memory + focus. In a study with older adults (who were starting to forget stuff), those who took Lion’s Mane saw a real improvement in mental function.
  📚 Here’s that study

• It may reduce anxiety + depression. One small study showed it helped menopausal women feel less anxious and more balanced.
  📚 That one’s here

I mean… if something natural can help my brain and my mood? Sign me up.

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☁️ My Real-Life Experience

I started taking Lion’s Mane every morning about 3 months ago.

Not gonna lie, I wasn’t expecting much. But here’s what actually happened:

• Way less brain fog. Like… I actually finish my sentences now.

• Calmer energy. Not sleepy-calm—more like centered.

• I can get into the zone easier. It doesn’t feel like a caffeine buzz, just clear focus.

Is it a magic pill? No. But I stack it with hydration, solid sleep, and my favorite magnesium gummies at night—and it’s 100% earned a place on my shelf.

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🌿 What to Look for (Because Not All Mushrooms Are Created Equal)

Here’s what I wish someone told me before I ordered random mushroom capsules online:

1. Fruiting body only. That’s the good part of the mushroom. The other part (called mycelium) is cheaper, but way less potent.

2. Dual-extracted. This means it’s extracted with both water and alcohol to get all the beneficial compounds.

3. No weird fillers. If the label says “mycelium on grain” or has rice flour or starches… pass.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed (I was), I’ll save you some time:
💡 Stronger Vessel's Morning Glory checks all those boxes.

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🧋 How to Take It (Without Gagging)

You’ve got options:

• Capsules: Super easy, no taste, my personal fave.

• Tinctures: A few drops under the tongue, kinda earthy tasting.

• Powders: Blend into smoothies or coffee (but ngl, the taste isn’t for everyone).

Whatever form you choose, the key is consistency. Mushrooms aren’t a one-time thing—they’re more like a bestie who shows up for you every day.

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🛒 Where to Start If You're Curious

If your brain feels fried, your mood’s been meh, or you just want a natural edge without adding another stimulant…

Lion’s Mane is worth exploring.

I take Stronger Vessel's Morning Glory (obvi), because it’s clean, tested, and made from 100% fruiting body. Plus, the branding is cute. Don’t judge me.

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📝 TL;DR Recap

• Lion’s Mane helps with brain function, memory, and mood

• Backed by real research, not just TikTok

• Look for fruiting body, no fillers, and dual-extracted

• My mood and focus both improved when I started taking it daily

• Consistency is key (this is a marathon, not a magic spell)

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Final Word, Girl to Girl

I’m not here to push supplements you don’t need. But if your brain has been in a fog lately—or you just want to feel a bit more like you again…

This is one of those little daily rituals that’s been worth it.

And if you try it? DM me. I want to know how it goes.

Stay sharp, stay soft.
– xx