The Herbal Ally Series Part 5: Matcha vs Lion's Mane Mushroom

Description

Welcome to Part 5 of our series on herbal allies, in which I discuss plant medicines that have traditionally been used together across various herbal-based medical systems. 

If you have not read Part 1 (Gotu Kola vs Holy Basil), Part 2 (Bacopa vs Gotu Kola), Part 3 (Bacopa vs Lion’s Mane), or Part 4 (Ginkgo vs Bacopa), please check them out. 

However, today’s article will be slightly different, as the two potent tonics I will discuss both have long histories in East Asian Culture but no history of being used together.  

All forms of traditional herbal medicine recognize that individual herbs have their appropriate place in medicine. However, herbal formulas are central to these long-standing traditional systems of medicine. 

In fact, the tradition of observing how herbs in their natural environments interact and function as medicines has long led to the creation of some of the most longstanding and effective formulas. A core value in creating these potent formulas is understanding the concept of herbal allies.

In simple terms, herbal allies are plant medicines that work well together, creating a more potent effect through synergy and by supporting each other's primary mechanisms of action. 

However, herbal allies are not just about tradition. They are a perfect blend of tradition and modern science.  

In today’s article, I will discuss two popular foods that have potent effects on the brain and nervous system and, to many people's surprise, are extremely compatible: Matcha Tea & Lion's Mane Mushroom. I use the phrase “to people’s surprise” because they were never traditionally used together. While both of these potent foods have long-standing Eastern Asian traditions and matcha tea is well known as a nourishing and potent tonic from Japan, it often comes as a surprise that lion’s mane mushrooms are heavy hitters in Eastern Asian traditions as well. 

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, lion’s mane mushrooms are valued for their ability to nourish the "five internal organs"—the heart, liver, lungs, spleen, and kidneys— and are also known as a "spirit-calmer" to reduce anxiety and stress. Furthermore, it is highly valued for its reported cognitive and digestive benefits and is often regarded as a gift from the mountain gods. 

Today's article also focuses on the mechanisms of action (based on Western herbal medicine principles) of Matcha and Lion’s Mane as potent tonics that support nerve growth factor (NGF) and NGF-induced neurite outgrowth (the growth of nerve cell projections). Again, while these two potent tonics haven’t historically been used together, modern science has found that their distinct compound profiles may create a match made in heaven.

However, before I get started, it is essential to understand what Nerve Growth Factor and neurite outgrowth are. In simple terms, 

• Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) is a naturally occurring protein that promotes the growth, maintenance, and survival of specific nerve cells, protects the nervous system, supports sensory and sympathetic neurons, and helps regulate pain signaling and immune responses. 
• Neurite outgrowth is the process by which developing brain cells extend small projections called neurites, which then mature into axons and dendrites, forming the wiring of the nervous system. It is essential for brain development and for repairing injured nerve cells to regrow connections. 

Next, let’s look at what lion’s mane mushroom does specifically. 

Lion's mane mushroom is primarily defined by its neurotrophic and neuroprotective actions. The term neurotrophic refers to substances that support the growth, survival, differentiation, and function of neurons (specialized nerve cells). Therefore, Lion’s Mane essentially works as brain fertilizer, ultimately affecting learning and nerve repair, thereby influencing overall neurological health. Lion’s mane is well known and studied for its ability to support neurogenesis and neuroplasticity by stimulating the secretion of nerve growth factor. For a quick review,

• Neurogenesis refers to the growth and development of nerve cells, also known as nerve tissue. 
• Neuroplasticity is the ability of the nervous system to change its activity in response to intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli by reorganizing its structure, functions, or connections after injuries. Simply put, the brain can change and adapt in response to experience. 

Lion’s Mane mushrooms contain many bioactive compounds, including but not limited to the following:

• Polysaccharides (Hericenones, which occur in the fruiting body portion & Erinacines, which arise in the mycelium portion)
• Polypeptides
• Beta-glucans
• Prebiotic fiber

Some of Lion’s Mane's specific mechanisms of action as a Nootropic:

• Neurogenesis and Neuroprotection via NGF & BDNF Stimulation: These actions occur from 2 specific polysaccharides found in Lion’s Mane (Hericenones & Erinacines) that cross the blood-brain barrier and trigger their synthesis. 
• Antioxidant activity: The many compounds found in Lion’s Mane, such as polysaccharides, polyphenols, and terpenoids, support the body's own antioxidant enzyme systems that combat oxidative stress.  
• Anti-inflammatory Activity: This occurs specifically by reducing neuroinflammation through modulation of cytokine release. Cytokine release controls the release of immune signaling proteins, either by enhancing beneficial signals or suppressing harmful, excessive inflammation (cytokine storm), ultimately aiming to restore immune balance for therapeutic benefit.
• Immunomodulation: Polysaccharides and beta-glucans influence the immune system by binding to immune cells and triggering pathways that increase their activity. These triggerings either calm an overactive immune system or increase an underactive one. Essentially, they work as biological defense modifiers. 
• Support myelin sheath production: The myelin sheath is the protective covering around nerve cells, improving the speed and efficiency of electrical signal transmission in the brain. Lion’s mane affects its growth via stimulating NGF & BDNF. 

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its association with Lion’s Mane

To understand the relationship between lion's mane and BDNF, it is essential first to define BDNF. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is a protein and a member of the neurotrophin family (a group of growth factors), which are essential for the survival, growth, and differentiation of neurons. 

Essentially, this supports functions such as learning, memory, and synaptic plasticity by helping neurons form and strengthen connections (synapses) that are highly expressed in areas such as the cortex and hippocampus. 

Lion’s mane supports BDNF production through the production of its polysaccharides, hericenones, and erinacines, which stimulate its release and mimic its effects by activating its receptors. 

The following was stated in a randomized controlled trial investigating the Acute and Chronic Effects of Lion's Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress, and Mood in Young Adults. 

• Analysis revealed that following a single dose of Hericium erinaceus, participants performed more quickly on the Stroop task at 60 min post-dose (p = 0.005). 
• A trend towards reduced subjective stress was observed after 28 days of supplementation (p = 0.051).

Therefore, it was concluded that Hericium erinaceus may improve performance speed and reduce subjective stress in healthy young adults.

Now, let’s look at what Matcha Tea does specifically regarding the brain. 

In part 6 of my travel series, I discuss the profound effects matcha tea has on circadian rhythms & Jet Lag Modulation. It is believed that Matcha directly modulates the circadian rhythm and alleviates jet lag through a combination of caffeine, L-theanine, and Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG). 

This unique combination alters peripheral clock genes and brain wave activity. Depending on when you consume it, matcha acts as a phase shifter between wake and sleep. It does this in four specific phases. I use this example because the vast majority of its effects occur through neurochemical pathways. 

Please note that all of the following effects are occurring via neurochemical pathways. 

• Within the first few hours of consuming matcha, caffeine provides a gentle, sustained energy boost while L-theanine stimulates alpha brainwaves, yielding a calm focus.
• Within 6 hours, the body has fully utilized the matcha, and L-theanine levels remain high, supporting the neurotransmitters GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, acting as a counterbalance to fading caffeine. 
• Eight hours after consuming, Matcha’s caffeine levels drop significantly, allowing natural melatonin production to kick in. Keep in mind that L-theanine is the primary factor responsible for the slow, smooth absorption of caffeine in matcha, which prevents an abrupt crash. L-Theanine does not change how fast your liver metabolizes caffeine—L-Theanine acts as a neurochemical buffer, modulating how your brain experiences caffeine's effects. 
• The final stage is restful sleep and an alert awakening, as matcha shortens the time it takes to fully wake up and feel alert when you open your eyes in the morning. It bridges the gap between deep sleep and wakefulness, so you feel less groggy.

Next, I also discussed one of matcha’s best-known effects: creating a feeling of controlled, calm focus. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine is renowned for creating a feeling of controlled, calm focus. If you have ever had a well-made cup of matcha, you know exactly what I am talking about. The following was stated in a randomized controlled trial evaluating the combined effects of theanine and caffeine on mood and cognitive performance. 

• Caffeine improved subjective alertness at 60 min and accuracy on the attention-switching task at 90 min. 
• The L-theanine and caffeine combination improved both the speed and accuracy of performance in the attention-switching task at 60 minutes, and reduced susceptibility to distracting information in the memory task at both 60 minutes and 90 minutes. 
• These results replicate previous evidence suggesting that combining L-theanine and caffeine improves performance on cognitively demanding tasks.

What is EGCG and what are its effects on neurogenesis and Neuroplasticity?

EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate), the most abundant polyphenol (catechin) found in matcha tea, promotes adult hippocampal neurogenesis(A process by which new neurons are generated from neural stem cells and integrated into the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus to form memories) and enhances neuroplasticity by 

• Increasing neural progenitor cell proliferation (your body is making more "starter" brain cells).
• Boosting immature neuron survival (Helping young brain cells live longer) 
• Elaborating dendritic branching (Creating more branch-like antennas)
• Activating key survival signaling pathways like PI3K/Akt

These signaling pathways act as a master regulator of cell survival and metabolism in response to external signals such as growth factors, nutrients, and hormones. Furthermore, it functions by transmitting signals from the cell membrane to the nucleus and cytoplasm, ensuring the cell grows and divides only under appropriate conditions.

In simple terms, it listens to external signals like food and hormones, carries those messages inside the cell, and decides whether the cell is healthy and ready to grow and divide. 

Matcha promotes neurogenesis and neuroplasticity through its unique blend of bioactive compounds—primarily L-theanine, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), and caffeine—which cross the blood-brain barrier to reduce cellular stress, upregulate growth factors, and activate synaptic plasticity genes. 

• L-Theanine uses leucine transport systems to cross the blood-brain barrier, where it elevates brain waves, reduces caffeine-induced jitters, and boosts GABA, dopamine, and serotonin. 
• EGCG is believed to cross the blood-brain barrier in modest amounts to exert direct antioxidant effects, help lower neuroinflammation, and block amyloid-beta aggregation.
• Caffeine, a lipophilic molecule, diffuses across the BBB to block adenosine receptors, sharpening alertness and working synergistically with L-theanine.

Once these compounds cross the blood-brain barrier, they help preserve acetylcholine pools vital for memory, protect neuronal structures from reactive oxygen species, and maintain a balanced cognitive state. 

How do Matcha and Lion’s Mane complement each other?

In simple terms, the synergy of these potent herbs means their mechanisms of action complement one another, offering complementary cognitive support. Their complementary support occurs in two specific ways.

• Acute versus Structural Support: In this relationship, matcha would be the accelerator delivering fast-acting caffeine for immediate alertness alongside L-theanine. This amino acid crosses the blood-brain barrier to smooth out jitteriness by promoting alpha brain waves. On the other end, lion’s mane mushroom would be the architect triggering the production of NGF and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), encouraging the growth, maintenance, and repair of neurons over weeks of consistent use. In simple terms, Matcha activates neural circuits in real time, while Lion's Mane builds and strengthens the underlying cellular infrastructure those circuits rely on. 
• Neurotransmitter and Metabolic Synergy: L-theanine in matcha binds to glutamate receptors to prevent over-excitation, matching Lion's Mane's supportive role in protecting neural pathways from oxidative stress and damage. Furthermore, Matcha’s matrix of catechins (such as EGCG) slows caffeine absorption, preventing sharp drops in blood sugar and energy that can counteract the steady cognitive baseline fostered by functional mushrooms. In simple terms, the L-theanine in matcha prevents the overexcitation of brain cells, while lion's mane protects them.  

In conclusion, understanding the principles of effective formula formulation is a multilayered process. One of the longest-standing traditions is observing how each plant functions both independently and in association with other plants. 

Therefore, when you understand the science behind plant medicines and that each plant has multiple allies that support its ability to heal, you have a proper match made in heaven.  

For more information about our Lion’s Mane Mushroom, go here: Organic Lion's Mane Mushroom Extract Powder 

For more information about our Matcha, go  here: Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder

For more information about our Organic Cognitive Cacao and Coffee Blend which contains both Lion’s Mane and Matcha, go here: Organic Cognitive Cacao and Coffee Blend

The Author’s Bio
Michael Stuchiner is a Master Herbalist and proud graduate of The School of Natural Healing, with over 25 years of experience in various aspects of the field. He is a retired elite-level powerlifter who competed for 27 years. As an avid international traveler, he is passionate about the use of medicinal and tonic herbs, as well as foods traditionally found in local markets across the 35 countries he has visited. Michael shares his years of experience as a Master Herbalist, traveler, and athlete through the hundreds of articles he has written and his YouTube channel, "A Master Herbalist Perspective." He is considered a true educator in this field. For more articles written by Mike, go here: Master Herbalist.