Perimenopause and Menopause proper are not considered a favourite time of life for most women. It often brings mood swings, anxiety, sleep problems, memory lapses, hot flashes, chills and trouble concentrating—classic symptoms of menopause. While these changes are totally normal, finding effective ways to manage them is key to maintaining your quality of life.
All five of our functional mushrooms can help combat menopause, but today we want to focus on your swinging moods and absent minded brain power.
The good news? You don’t have to go through it alone. There are natural supports out there and we think Lion’s Mane, our favourite powerful medicinal mushroom, might be just the emotional support you need. Infact, we looked at three studies that dive into their effectiveness for helping women navigate menopause.
Lion's Mane, known for its brain-boosting benefits, Lion’s Mane is becoming a go-to for women seeking natural relief from the mental and emotional challenges of menopause. When it comes to mushrooms for menopause, Lion’s Mane stands out for its potential to help with everything from brain fog (mild cognitive impairment) to mood swings.
1. Boost Your Brainpower During Menopause
Ever find yourself saying, “Where did I put my keys… again?” or “I just don’t feel like myself anymore”? You’re not alone. Many women experience forgetfulness, brain fog, and a general feeling that their mind is on vacation during menopause.
But there’s a bright side. Studies have shown that Lion’s Mane can help sharpen your mind. In a study involving adults over 50, those who took Lion’s Mane for 12 weeks saw significant improvements in their cognitive abilities compared to those who took a placebo. By encouraging the growth of nerve cells (NGF), Lion’s Mane helps keep your memory and concentration in check, making it a natural ally against mild cognitive impairment AKA brain fog. This means less time searching for your keys and more time enjoying life.
2. Ease Anxiety and Lift Your Mood
Menopause can really mess with your emotions. Increased anxiety, irritability, and even depression are common symptoms of menopause that can make this time of life feel overwhelming.
Here’s where Lion’s Mane can help. In a study with 30 women, those who took Lion’s Mane for four weeks experienced noticeable reductions in their depression and anxiety levels. The improvements were especially strong in areas like mood swings and irritability. This suggests that Lion’s Mane could be a natural, supportive option for tackling the emotional ups and downs of menopause.
3. Reduce Stress and Find Balance
Stress often tags along with menopause, making symptoms like sleep problems and mood swings even harder to deal with. Effectively managing stress is crucial for maintaining emotional balance and overall well-being.
A study on young adults revealed that Lion’s Mane can help reduce stress and improve mood. Participants who took Lion’s Mane daily for 28 days showed trends toward lower stress levels. While the study focused on younger adults, the findings suggest that Lion’s Mane could also help menopausal women manage stress, making the emotional rollercoaster a bit smoother.
A Holistic Approach to Menopausal Wellness
Lion’s Mane offers more than just brain and mood benefits. By addressing multiple aspects of mental and emotional health, it provides a well-rounded approach to managing menopause symptoms. Its natural properties make it an appealing alternative for those looking into mushrooms for menopause relief, especially for long-term well-being.
Adding Lion’s Mane to your wellness routine could make your transition through menopause smoother, supporting both your mind and emotions. Whether you’re looking to boost brainpower, reduce anxiety and depression, or maintain emotional balance, Lion’s Mane offers a natural, effective solution that could greatly improve your quality of life during this important stage.
Before starting any new supplement, especially during menopause, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider. With the right approach, Lion’s Mane could become a valuable part of your journey toward a healthier, more balanced life.
resources :
Study on Lion’s Mane Mushroom Reducing Depression and Anxiety
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20834180/
Study on Lion’s Mane Mushroom Effects on Young Adults
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10675414/
Study on Lion’s Mane Mushroom and Cognitive Function
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/biomedres/40/4/40_125/_pdf/-char/en
