Ingredient Spotlight

Lion’s Mane / Hou Tou Gu

Traditionally supports: Mental clarity, Focused attention, Cognitive sharpness, and Nervous system health

How It's Used

In Chinese herbal traditions, Lion's Mane is used to nourish the Shen, the mind-spirit that resides in the Heart, supporting a calm, clear, and settled mental state. Valued for its ability to quiet mental restlessness and sharpen awareness without overstimulation.

In Western herbal practices, Lion's Mane is recognized as a natural compound that stimulates both NGF (Nerve Growth Factor) and BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), proteins that support neural growth, maintenance, and plasticity. Research highlights its neuroprotective and antioxidant properties, with growing evidence for its role in supporting memory, cognitive function, and long-term brain health.

Fun Fact: Buddhist monks consumed Lion's Mane tea before long meditation sessions specifically to sustain focus — making it one of the world's oldest natural nootropics.

"Lion's Mane is the herb I recommend most for anyone dealing with brain fog or difficulty concentrating. What makes it special is that it doesn't just sharpen focus temporarily — it supports the actual architecture of the brain over time. That's a different category of benefit entirely."

- Dr. Liem Le, DAOM, MS

Neurotrophic and Neuroprotective Effects of Hericium erinaceus - PMC

Lion's Mane is one of nature's most compelling neuroprotective ingredients, research shows it supports nerve growth, regulates inflammation, reduces oxidative stress, and helps protect brain cells from damage.

Read article

Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus): A Neuroprotective Fungus with Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antimicrobial Potential—A Narrative Review

Research highlights Lion's Mane's unique ability to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein critical for brain health, suggesting promising potential in supporting protection against neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Read article

Chemistry, Nutrition, and Health-Promoting Properties of Hericium erinaceus (Lion's Mane) Mushroom Fruiting Bodies and Mycelia and Their Bioactive Compounds - PubMed

Lion's Mane has been studied for a broad range of benefits, from anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, and antifatigue properties to cardiovascular, liver, and kidney protection, plus improvements in anxiety, depression, and cognitive function.

Read article

Feel the difference for yourself.

Your cycle is unique, and the only way to know if Elix will work for you is to try your personalized blend. We’re here to listen to your body, adjust your blend as needed.

Discover My Formula