Hand holding a fresh Lion’s Mane mushroom against a neutral background — a natural mood-supporting remedy during menopause.

July 8, 2025 Saskia Michele

How Lion’s Mane Can Support Your Mood During Menopause

Menopause isn’t just about hot flashes and night sweats — for many women, the emotional rollercoaster can be just as overwhelming. Mood swings, low energy, anxiety, and even brain fog are all common symptoms linked to the hormonal shifts happening in your body.

If you’ve tried lifestyle changes, supplements, or even hormone therapy but still feel mentally and emotionally off-balance, it may be time to explore something different — something rooted in nature and backed by growing research.

One natural remedy gaining attention around the world (including right here in South Africa) is Lion’s Mane mushroom — a brain-loving, mood-supporting medicinal mushroom with some impressive science behind it.

Close-up of whole and sliced Lion’s Mane mushrooms on a dark surface, showing the fibrous texture linked to brain and emotional health benefits.

What Is Lion’s Mane?

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a white, shaggy mushroom that grows on hardwood trees. While it’s been used in traditional Eastern medicine for centuries, it’s now being studied by modern scientists for its neurological, cognitive, and emotional health benefits.

What makes Lion’s Mane so unique is its ability to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) — a protein that supports the growth and repair of neurons (nerve cells) in the brain. This makes it particularly interesting for brain health, memory, focus — and yes, mood regulation.

Click here to view high quality Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplement.

Why Mood Changes Happen During Menopause

As oestrogen levels drop, the brain’s neurotransmitters — like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine — also fluctuate. These chemical messengers play a big role in how we feel emotionally.

This can lead to:

Sudden mood swings
Irritability or low frustration tolerance
Anxiety or feeling emotionally “flat”
Difficulty concentrating (often called “menopause brain fog”)
Trouble sleeping, which can worsen mood even more

And while these changes are common, they don’t have to be something you just put up with.

How Lion’s Mane May Help with Mood During Menopause

1. Supports Brain Health and Neuroplasticity

Lion’s Mane helps stimulate NGF, which can support neuron repair and growth. This may help improve focus, clarity, and overall emotional resilience — areas often affected during menopause.

2. May Reduce Anxiety and Mild Depression

Early studies suggest that Lion’s Mane may have mood-lifting effects by influencing the nervous system. In one small study, menopausal women who took Lion’s Mane for four weeks reported reduced anxiety and irritability compared to a placebo group.

3. Helps with Brain Fog and Mental Fatigue

Many women describe menopause as a time when their brain feels “foggy” or slow. By supporting the brain’s structure and function, Lion’s Mane may help clear the mental cobwebs and restore sharper thinking.

4. Balances the Gut-Brain Connection

Did you know that up to 90% of serotonin is made in the gut? Lion’s Mane acts as a prebiotic, feeding good gut bacteria, which can help improve the gut-brain connection — a key factor in stable mood and energy.

Click here to view high quality Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplement.

Is It Safe to Take Lion’s Mane During Menopause?

Lion’s Mane is considered safe for long-term use and is non-hormonal, meaning it won’t interfere with oestrogen or hormone replacement therapy. This makes it a great option for women looking for natural, gentle support without side effects.

However, if you're on chronic medication or managing a specific condition, it's always best to speak to a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does it take to notice results from Lion’s Mane?

A: Some people feel a difference in focus or mood within 1–2 weeks, while others may need 4–6 weeks of consistent use. Like most natural supplements, Lion’s Mane works best when taken daily over time.

Q: Is Lion’s Mane safe to use with hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

A: Yes. Lion’s Mane is non-hormonal and does not interfere with oestrogen or other hormone therapies. It supports the nervous system and brain function independently from your hormonal treatment.

Q: Can I take Lion’s Mane if I’m already on antidepressants or anxiety medication?

A: While Lion’s Mane is generally safe, you should always speak to your prescribing doctor before combining it with any chronic medication, especially if you’re managing a mood disorder with prescription drugs.

Final Thoughts: Nature Has Your Back

Menopause is a big life transition — and it doesn’t just affect your hormones, it affects how you feel. If you’ve been feeling mentally tired, emotionally flat, or like you're not quite yourself lately, Lion’s Mane could be a gentle but powerful ally.

Backed by science and loved for centuries, this mushroom may just help bring a little more clarity, calm, and balance back into your daily life — naturally.

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