Host Defense Lion’s Mane Review
Is It Really Good For Memory Support?

Last Updated: August 27, 2020

Improving mental focus through the use of nootropics is becoming more and more popular. In fact, as companies continue to use science to further the field, we are beginning to identify the products and ingredients that actually work.

But is there a supplement that will truly improve your brain function and memory? And if so, would a nootropic supplement that focuses on just one sole ingredient be enough?

In this Host Defense Lion’s Mane review, we will take a closer look at the supplement, and it’s possible benefits and efficacy.

Table of Contents

What Are Host Defense Lion’s Mane Capsules

Host Defense is a company that hopes to bridge science and innovation with nature’s wisdom or mushrooms as it’s otherwise known.

They make many different products, focusing on various aspects of health: immune system, nervous system, mental clarity, and providing the full spectrum of nutrients. Also, the products are certified organic, which is always a big plus, especially for us vegans.

Can be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Take 2 capsules per day for optimal results.

“Mushrooms provide a vast array of potential medicinal compounds. Many mushrooms are well-known for these properties, but the lion’s mane mushroom, in particular, has drawn the attention of researchers for its notable nerve-regenerative properties.”

– Paul Stamets, Founder of Fungi Perfecti.

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The company is built on the back of Paul Stamets’ visionary research into the field. Identifying mycelium as the immune system of mushrooms, he has found that it also helps bolster the immune system and health of humans and the ecosystems in which the lion’s mane mushrooms are found.

In studies, Hieracium Erinaceus (most commonly known as lion’s mane) has been shown to promote the nerve growth factor and overall brain health [1].

Host Defense claims lion’s mane mushrooms (or freeze dried myceliated brown rice to be exact) can support memory and cognitive function, thus promoting it as a potent cerebral and nervous system aid.

Other recommended nootropic supplements:

Mind Lab Pro – Our #1 recommendation
Vital Brain Booster

Host Defense Lion’s Mane Capsules Ingredients

The ingredients list for this Host Defense product is pretty simple, especially when compared to other products. They believe in and rely on the Lion’s Mane mushrooms effect entirely. The only other ingredients are myceliated brown rice and pullulan, which is fungus-based and acts as an adhesive.

Lion’s mane mushrooms are aptly named due to the long hairy strands around the fungi’s stem resembling a bushy lion’s mane. The lion’s mane mushrooms are said to have powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

It has also been found that these mushrooms have a potent benefit for our brain health. In one study published for the evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine group, the lion’s mane mushroom supplements were found to increase recognition and recall [2].

In another study published within the international journal of molecular sciences, it was found that the pharmacological value of a lion’s mane can even help to prevent and combat dementia, particularly in conditions such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s [3].

The main claims and focus of the supplement itself are as follows:

Brain Support – The Host Defense Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules have been formulated to provide a nervous system support. It means that your reaction speed, observational skills, and overall brain speed should be improved.
Sharper Memory – In several of the studies listed above, the lion’s mane mushroom has been shown to improve mental clarity focus and memory significantly. A supplement focused on this ingredient is likely to provide a similarly potent effect on the recognition and recall areas in the brain.
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) – is an effect that seeks to strengthen our nervous system and also help damaged nerves repair and regrow. Nerve growth factor is particularly helpful for those suffering from nerve damage owing to medical conditions and existing injuries.

PROS

All organic and sustainably cultivated ingredients
Made by a company dedicated to the research and therapeutic application of mushrooms
No filler with the formula being focused on just one proven ingredient

CONS

The supplement isn’t FDA-approved
Shouldn’t be taken as a preventative measure for any serious medical condition
Lacks the robust nature of other stacks with several different ingredients

Side Effects

Studies have shown Lion’s Mane mushrooms and the extract to be relatively safe for consumption at even large doses.

There is little evidence to point to any side effects of a particular note. That said, there is still the risk of allergies, and some have reported difficulty breathing or rashes after being exposed to the mushroom.

It is a good idea to start with a smaller dose and work your way up and consult a medical professional if any symptoms develop or interfere with any other medications you might be taking.

Other brain-boosting supplements you can try out:

Where To Buy Host Defense Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules

Host Defense offers the Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules on their website in 30, 60, and 120 capsule servings.

By investing in the larger portions, you can net yourself a small saving, and if you bulk buy the product alongside other mushroom-based supplements from the site, you can apply further savings at the checkout.

Purchasing any more than four at a time will unlock 20% off the order, and any more than six will save you 25%.

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User Reviews

The reviews for the Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules are largely positive, with over 80% being 5-star. The users seem to have a lot of respect for Stamets products and research, with the benefits mentioned greatly. The negative reviews claim the product is not what it says it is and provides no effect at all.

“Let me tell you, living with idiopathic neuropathy for the past five years is no picnic. After taking medication to pacify the pain, and I realized I needed to take extra care about my nutrition. Enter Lion’s Mane. It helped me tremendously – and continues to do so..”

– Major Drank, 5-Star

“My mom suffers from MS and has gradually lost the ability to move her legs. Lion’s Mane apparently does a lot to help with cognitive function. It has only been about a month of her using Lion’s Mane and I’m on cloud nine because of that. Thank you so much for offering this product, it really helps to alleviate my mom’s illness!”

– Scott, 5-Star

“After I caught a glimpse of this guy speaking about nootropics at Joe Rogan’s podcast, I got interested in the products. I did more research about the product on the web and saw some good reviews. However, I noticed the benefits are more of a placebo effect, like snake oil. Lots of people today sound like they know stuff, but are actually just salespeople.”

– kosR, 1-Star

“Paul Stamet should hold the title as the Scammer of the Year. These products are chock-full of mycelium grain and fail to support cognitive health. They have been tested by multiple study labs and failed.”

– Dandy2015, 1-Star

Make sure your micronutrients is in at optimal levels. See our recommended guides:

Should You Buy Host Defense Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules?

I don’t think these Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules are worth it, to be honest. While there are some good reviews and I genuinely believe in the hype about the future being mushroom, they don’t measure up to other more complete formulas or products on the market.

While Host Defense Lion’s Mane is focused on just one ingredient and its effects, other products such as Mind Lab Pro provide a more complex list of proven natural ingredients, all compounding and enhancing their combined effect.

I would recommend Mind Lab Pro especially for first-time users of vegan brain supplements. It is a much more researched product that guarantees results. Otherwise, those who prefer having just one ingredient (mushroom) on the ingredient list, then Host Defense Lion’s Mane is probably for you.

Mind Lab Pro

Our #1 Recommendation

Full information of all ingredients and doses
Only uses high-quality ingredients and at optimal dosing
Vegan capsules and all-natural
No known allergens or additives

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About the author

Jason Hughes

"Hey there, I'm Jason, and you've just landed on the most exhilarating spot on the web - my VL universe! Here's the deal: I'm wildly obsessed (in the best way possible!) with all things diet, strength training, fitness, health, and wellness. It's not just a passion; it's a lifestyle!

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