Lions mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Lions mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) is a medicinal mushroom and powerful superfood adaptogen for the brain, nerves and immune system.
The mushroom looks quite different than other mushroom

varieties. Instead of caps and stems they grow in globular masses and have long flowing spines.
It gets its name from the white cascading tendrils that resemble a lions mane.

This particular species is a parasitic fungus that grows hanging off of logs and trees, also referred to as hedgehog or bearded tooth mushroom.
Used in Asia for thousands of years, it is said to give one “nerves of steel and the memory of a lion.”

Known for its powerful effects as a brain tonic, Hericium erinaceus is rumored to have been used as a tea for centuries by Buddhist monks to enhance brain power and heighten their ability to concentrate during meditation.

In Japan it is called yamabushitake or “those who sleep in mountains”, referring to the Shugendo sect of “hermit monks” and their long flowing garments.