Study: Erinacine A-Enriched Lion’s Mane Improves Cognition in Clinical Trial
A 2020 study published in Translational Psychiatry used the gold standard of clinical research design—randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled—to test whether Lion’s Mane extract enriched with erinacine A improves cognitive function.
Study Design
Participants received either Lion’s Mane extract enriched with erinacine A (a specific compound from the mycelium) or a placebo, without knowing which they received. Researchers then measured cognitive function using standardized assessments.
Key Findings
The group taking the erinacine A-enriched extract showed improvements in cognitive function compared to the placebo group. The rigorous study design helps eliminate placebo effects, making these results particularly meaningful.
Why Erinacine A Matters
Erinacine A is found in the mycelium (the root-like structure) of Lion’s Mane, not the fruiting body. This means extraction source matters—not all Lion’s Mane products contain erinacines. Products made only from fruiting bodies may not contain this specific compound.
Limitations to Consider
As with any single study, replication is needed to confirm these findings. The specific dose and duration may affect outcomes, and individual responses vary.
Citation
Li, I.C., et al. (2020). Effect of erinacine A-enriched Hericium erinaceus supplementation on cognition. Translational Psychiatry, 10, 155.