Background

 

Three nonprofits: Realm of Caring, Unlimited Sciences, and Lily’s Lighthouse, came together with a shared goal: to explore the therapeutic potential of functional mushrooms for people living with epilepsy. Each organization brings unique expertise, united by a shared commitment to expanding health and wellness options through research. Together, they aim to improve access to safe, science-backed, and natural therapies that enhance quality of life for individuals and families affected by epilepsy and other chronic conditions.

 

Together, these organizations designed and published a first-of-its-kind mixed-methods study investigating the effects of two well-known functional mushrooms, Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), as either complementary or stand-alone therapies for epilepsy.

 

Why Lion’s Mane and Reishi?

 

Functional mushrooms have long been valued for their neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

 

• Reishi, also known as “Ling Zhi,” has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. Modern research supports its potential to strengthen the immune system, improve sleep, and exhibit anti-seizure effects. 
• Lion’s Mane is recognized for promoting nerve growth factor (NGF) production and supporting cognitive function. In animal models, it has shown neuroprotective effects against seizure-related brain injury. 

Given their safety profiles and accessibility, these mushrooms present an intriguing opportunity for individuals whose seizures remain uncontrolled despite conventional treatments.

 

The Study

 

The study titled “Functional Mushrooms Saved My Daughter’s Life: A preliminary mixed methods survey study of Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) for epilepsy” enrolled 19 participants, including adults with epilepsy and caregivers responding on behalf of minors. The majority (73.7%) met criteria for drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), meaning seizures persisted despite using at least two anti-seizure medications.

 

Participants completed a comprehensive survey and an optional interview assessing mushroom use, seizure activity, sleep, quality of life (QoL), and caregiver burden. Data collection occurred between March and July 2024.

 

Key Findings

 

The results were compelling:

 

• 94.7 % of participants reported a positive impact of functional mushrooms on the way seizures affected their life

 

• 68.4 % reported at least some reduction or a significant reduction in both the severity and frequency of seizures (across varying seizure types and including those considered DRE) 
• 57.9 % reported a change in the frequency of hospital or physician-related visits 
• The Patient’s Global Impression of Change (PGIC) scores indicated 84.2 % of respondents reported a moderate to significant improvement in their diagnoses. 
• Only one mild adverse effect was reported (minor gastrointestinal discomfort). 

 

Beyond seizure control, qualitative data revealed six themes that highlight broader health and emotional benefits:

 

1. Improved seizure control: Many participants reported shorter, less severe, or entirely absent seizures. 
2. Cognitive and developmental gains: Caregivers observed improvements in speech, memory, and learning milestones. 
3. Better quality of life: Participants noted enhanced mood, reduced fatigue, and increased social engagement. 
4. Uncertainty around dosing: Participants expressed a desire for more information about effective dosing ranges. 
5. Dissatisfaction with conventional treatments: Many turned to mushrooms after exhausting traditional options that carried harsh side effects. 
6. A call for holistic, evidence-based care: Caregivers emphasized the need for research and open-minded medical guidance for natural therapies. 

 

As one caregiver poignantly shared:

 

“My daughter’s seizures completely stopped and haven’t returned after introducing Reishi mushroom powder.”

 

What These Results Suggest

 

Although preliminary, this research suggests that functional mushrooms could play a valuable complementary role in managing epilepsy, especially for those with treatment-resistant forms.

 

Importantly, quantitative data revealed that participants using mushrooms achieved comparable scores in physical, psychological, and social health to the general population. This is an encouraging sign for a population often reporting lower quality of life due to chronic symptoms and stress.

 

Additionally, correlations between caregiver burden and seizure severity reinforce how even small improvements in seizure control can profoundly impact entire families.

 

The Path Forward

 

While these findings are promising, they are not yet conclusive. Controlled clinical trials are essential to confirm the efficacy, optimal dosing, and mechanisms of action of Reishi and Lion’s Mane for epilepsy. The current study provides a foundation for future hypothesis-driven research, validating what many families already report anecdotally about complementary/adjunctive natural therapies.

 

As one participant summarized, “We obviously want to help with any form of potential treatment for families in the future so that they don’t struggle the way we’ve struggled.”

 

Practical Integration

 

For individuals or caregivers curious about functional mushrooms:

 

• Start a conversation with a healthcare provider familiar with integrative or complementary therapies. 
• Look for quality products that are third-party tested and organically sourced. 
• Track progress in a journal to monitor changes in seizure activity, mood, or sleep.

 

 

 

Read the Full Study

 

This collaboration between Realm of Caring, Unlimited Sciences, and Lily’s Lighthouse reflects a growing commitment to exploring safe, natural, and accessible interventions for complex conditions like epilepsy.

 

Read the full open-access study published in Pharmacological Research: Natural Products here.

 

To learn more, reach out to a Realm of Caring Care Specialist, visit Unlimited Sciences, or head to Lily’s Lighthouse.