Does Lion’s Mane Increase Testosterone? The Truth Behind the Hype

We’ve been asked this a few times now: Does Lion’s Mane increase testosterone?

Short answer: not directly.

But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that Lion’s Mane may support hormone health, cognitive performance, and mood in ways that can influence how you feel overall — including things that are often linked to testosterone, like energy, focus, and motivation.

Let’s unpack the science, clear up the myths, and explain how Lion’s Mane mushroom powder might fit into your daily stack.

First things first – what is Lion’s Mane?

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is a functional mushroom that’s been used in Eastern medicine for centuries. Known for its brain-boosting properties, it contains unique compounds — hericenones and erinacines — which may support Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) production in the brain.

If you're new to it, read our guide on what Lion’s Mane actually is before going any further.

Lion’s Mane is best known for supporting:

• Focus and concentration

• Memory and cognition

• Mental clarity and brain fog

• Emotional balance and stress support

You can learn more about that in our blog on what Lion’s Mane is good for.

So... does Lion’s Mane increase testosterone?

Not directly — but let’s break it down.

Lion’s Mane does not directly raise testosterone levels, at least not based on any current, peer-reviewed human studies. It’s not a testosterone booster like Tongkat Ali or Ashwagandha, and it’s not marketed that way for a reason.

However — some people report better energy, improved mood, sharper focus and even increased drive after taking Lion’s Mane powder consistently. These effects can feel like higher testosterone, even if levels haven’t actually changed.

Here’s why that might be:

1. It supports brain and nervous system health

Lion’s Mane’s biggest strength is its ability to support cognitive performance and NGF. That means clearer thinking, better memory and improved mental energy — all of which play a role in overall vitality.

And when your brain feels sharper, your body often follows suit.

2. It may help with stress regulation

Stress and chronically high cortisol levels are known to suppress testosterone production in both men and women.

Lion’s Mane is an adaptogen, meaning it can support your body’s stress response and promote balance over time — especially when taken daily.
Less stress = better hormonal balance = healthier baseline function.

This is also why many people combine it with Reishi or Rhodiola in a broader hormone-supporting stack.

3. It supports sleep and mood — indirectly supporting testosterone

Good sleep and mental wellbeing are essential for healthy hormone function.
Poor sleep, low mood or chronic stress? All of them can drag testosterone down.

By supporting emotional balance and improving sleep quality (especially when stacked with Reishi), Lion’s Mane supplements may create a more hormone-friendly environment — even if they aren’t directly altering testosterone levels.

So who should take Lion’s Mane?

If you’re specifically looking for a testosterone boost, Lion’s Mane alone probably isn’t your go-to.
But if you’re looking to:

• Clear brain fog

• Improve mental focus

• Support mood and resilience

• Get back into a healthier daily rhythm

• Feel more alert, driven and steady overall

…then Lion’s Mane mushroom might be a perfect fit — with or without the testosterone angle.

It’s also caffeine-free, vegan, non-GMO and suitable for daily use — which makes it a great choice for anyone looking to support their brain and body holistically.

How to take Lion’s Mane for best results

Daily consistency is key.

• Take ½ teaspoon (2g) of Lion’s Mane mushroom powder daily

• Stir into coffee, tea (yes, it makes a great Lion’s Mane tea powder), smoothie or hot water

• Stack with Reishi mushroom powder (for stress/sleep) or Cordyceps powder (for performance/energy) depending on your goals

Our Lion’s Mane supplement is:

• 100% fruiting body

• Dual-extracted (10:1) and freeze-dried

• Third-party tested

• Filler-free and grain-free

• High-potency 2,000mg per serving

No fluff. Just properly Fung’d Up.

The bottom line

So does Lion’s Mane increase testosterone?
Not directly, no. But it may support the systems around it — from your brain and stress response to your sleep and mood.

If your goal is to feel more energised, focused and switched on, Lion’s Mane powder is still one of the best natural supplements out there — just don’t expect it to spike your testosterone overnight.

Want to know more about what it actually does?
Here’s everything Lion’s Mane is good for.

Shop Fung’d Up Lion’s Mane Mushroom Powder now and feel the difference for yourself.

FAQs: Lion’s Mane and Testosterone

Does Lion’s Mane boost testosterone?
Not directly. There’s no conclusive evidence that it raises testosterone levels, but it may support stress, sleep and mental wellbeing — which influence hormone balance.

Why do some people say it helps energy and drive?
Lion’s Mane can improve focus, reduce brain fog and support better sleep — all of which contribute to feeling more switched on.

Can I combine Lion’s Mane with other hormone-supporting supplements?
Yes. It works well alongside other adaptogens or nootropics, like Reishi powder or Cordyceps powder, depending on your goals.

Is it safe to take every day?
Yes — Lion’s Mane is safe for long-term, daily use. You can learn more about this in our blog on daily use.

What does Lion’s Mane do?
It supports cognitive function, memory, mental clarity and mood. Read the full breakdown here.