The Facts.

 Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

• Short-Term Cognitive and Coordination Benefits
  In a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of healthy adults, a single 3 g dose of Hericium erinaceus extract improved hand–eye coordination and fine motor performance. These results suggest task-specific neural benefits even after short-term use.
  → PubMed 40276537

• Consistent Supplementation and Mental Clarity
  A 28-day supplementation study found that participants who took 1.8 g/day of H. erinaceus showed faster reaction times and lower stress scores, supporting the mushroom’s traditional reputation for cognitive support.
  → PMC10675414

• β-Glucan Characterization and Functional Fiber Activity
  Structural analysis of H. erinaceus β-glucans demonstrated reduced rapidly digestible starch and increased resistant starch content, suggesting potential benefits for balanced metabolism and dietary fiber intake.
  → PMC7859327 – The Inhibitory Effects of Hericium erinaceus β-glucan

• Comprehensive Review of Bioactive Potential
  A 2025 review summarizes two decades of research, noting that H. erinaceus is rich in polysaccharides, terpenoids, and antioxidants that may stimulate nerve growth and reduce oxidative stress.
  → MDPI – Nutrients, 2025

• Historical Findings on Cognitive Support
  An early clinical trial found that older adults consuming Lion’s Mane daily experienced measurable improvements in cognitive function, laying the groundwork for modern neurotrophic research.
  → BioUpdate, Mori K. et al., 2009

 Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus, P. djamor)

• Blue Oyster — Nutrient Density and Composition
  P. ostreatus is recognized as a protein- and fiber-rich mushroom, naturally low in fat and abundant in vitamins and minerals. Its nutritional versatility and fast growth make it a leading sustainable food candidate.
  → PMC10824988 – Nutritional Quality of Pleurotus ostreatus

• Pink Oyster — Nutritional and Antioxidant Properties
  Pleurotus djamor (pink oyster) displays high antioxidant capacity, balanced macronutrient composition, and significant polyphenolic content—confirming its potential as both a functional and culinary species.
  → PMC11153431 – Nutritional and Antioxidant Potential of Pleurotus djamor

 Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)

• Bioactive Compound and Antioxidant Profiling
  Comparative metabolomic analysis showed that log-grown Shiitake mushrooms can have higher antioxidant activity and bioactive compound levels than sawdust-grown samples, reflecting the species’ adaptability and potent nutritional content.
  → PMC8615513 – Metabolic Profiles and Antioxidant Capacity of L. edodes

 Cross-Species Nutritional Insights

• Comparative Ergothioneine and Metabolite Profiling
  This large-scale metabolomic study compared several gourmet species, finding that Lion’s Mane and Oysters are among the richest dietary sources of ergothioneine—a potent antioxidant unique to mushrooms.
  → PMC10453450 – Metabolomics Profiling Across Gourmet Mushrooms

• Comparative Glucan Profiling with Shiitake
  Analysis of β- and α-glucans in Lion’s Mane and Shiitake revealed complementary fiber and carbohydrate profiles, supporting their classification as high-value functional foods.
  → PubMed 40407020