Lion's Mane and Menopause — Does It Help?
Lion's mane and menopause — does it help?
Lion's mane mushroom has become one of the most talked-about natural ingredients for cognitive and neurological health. During perimenopause and menopause, when brain fog, memory lapses, anxiety and sleep disruption are among the most common and distressing symptoms, interest in lion's mane has grown significantly. Here is what the research actually says.
Why menopause affects brain health
Oestrogen plays a significant role in brain function. It supports neurotransmitter production, promotes neuroplasticity and has neuroprotective effects throughout the brain. As oestrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, many women experience cognitive changes — commonly described as brain fog, difficulty concentrating, memory lapses and word retrieval problems.
These are not imaginary symptoms. Studies have confirmed measurable changes in cognitive function during the menopausal transition, particularly in verbal memory and processing speed. For most women these changes are temporary and improve as the body adapts to new hormonal levels — but during the transition they can significantly affect quality of life and confidence.
What does lion's mane do for the menopausal brain?
Nerve Growth Factor stimulation
The hericenones and erinacines in lion's mane cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate NGF synthesis in the brain. NGF supports the health and function of neurons — particularly cholinergic neurons, which are involved in memory and learning. By supporting NGF production, lion's mane may help maintain cognitive function during the neurological changes of menopause.
Mood and anxiety support
A 2010 randomised controlled trial found that menopausal women who consumed lion's mane mushroom daily for four weeks reported significantly reduced irritability and anxiety compared to the placebo group. They also reported improved concentration. This was one of the first controlled trials examining lion's mane specifically in a menopausal population and the results were meaningful.
Sleep quality
Poor sleep is among the most common menopause symptoms. Lion's mane has demonstrated effects on the GABAergic system — the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter system involved in relaxation and sleep. By supporting GABA activity, lion's mane may help with the sleep disruption and night-time anxiety that characterise perimenopause and menopause for many women.
Lion's mane in Kollo Balance+
Kollo Balance+ is a liquid daily menopause formula that includes lion's mane mushroom extract alongside ashwagandha, sage, magnesium and a full vitamin complex. The liquid format ensures rapid absorption of all active ingredients. Balance+ was specifically formulated to address the cognitive, emotional and physical changes of the menopausal transition as a comprehensive daily supplement.
For the complete picture of how lion's mane fits into a menopause supplement routine alongside collagen, creatine and Vitamin D3, read our guide to the best supplements for women over 40.
Kollo Health was co-founded by Jenni Falconer - TV presenter, Smooth Radio breakfast host, ten-time London Marathon runner and host of the RunPod podcast. Read her story and why she created Kollo.
