Host Defense Lion's Mane Capsules
by Host Defense
"Paul Stamets' lion's mane for nerve growth factor and cognitive support — the mycologist's choice"
Overview
Host Defense Lion's Mane Capsules are from the brand created by Paul Stamets, the world's most famous mycologist (featured in the Netflix documentary 'Fantastic Fungi'). Each serving provides 1g of lion's mane (Hericium erinaceus) mushroom mycelium grown on organic brown rice. Lion's mane is unique among mushrooms for its ability to stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) production, which supports brain cell growth, repair, and myelination. Research suggests benefits for cognitive function, memory, focus, and potentially neuroprotection. Host Defense uses the mycelium (root network) rather than fruiting body, which is a point of debate in the mushroom supplement community.
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lion's Mane Mycelium | 1000 mg |
Pros & Cons
What We Like
- Created by Paul Stamets (world's top mycologist)
- Stimulates Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)
- 15,000+ Amazon reviews
- Organic certified
- Research-backed for cognitive support
What Could Be Better
- Uses mycelium (not fruiting body)
- Grown on rice (contains rice starch)
- Only 30 servings per bottle
- Mycelium vs. fruiting body debate
Who Is This For?
Best For
- Cognitive enhancement seekers
- Paul Stamets/mushroom enthusiasts
- Nerve health and repair
- Those wanting organic mushroom supplements
Not Ideal For
- Those wanting fruiting body extract
- Budget mushroom supplement seekers
- Those wanting immediate cognitive effects
Our Verdict
Host Defense Lion's Mane carries the authority of Paul Stamets, but the mycelium-on-rice formulation is controversial. Purists prefer fruiting body extracts for higher beta-glucan content. That said, the NGF-stimulating research is promising, and the organic certification adds quality assurance.