Research Conducted Through a Collaboration with Realm of Caring and Unlimited Sciences

Lily’s Lighthouse, a national nonprofit transforming the lives of children living with epilepsy, announced today the positive/successful results of its first research study demonstrating the pioneering therapeutic potential of functional mushrooms, including Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), as an effective adjunctive treatment for epilepsy. The results published in the recent edition of Pharmacological Research – Natural Products provides preliminary evidence that these natural compounds can significantly reduce seizure severity and improve quality of life for individuals with epilepsy, including those with drug-resistant forms. Conducted in partnership with Realm of Caring and Unlimited Sciences, this study represents a significant advancement in the pursuit of safe, accessible, and evidence-based natural therapies for epilepsy.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251103228798/en/

"At Lily’s Lighthouse, we believe every family affected by epilepsy deserves hope. For many, especially those with Drug-Resistant Epilepsy, each day is a struggle against uncertainty,” said Sarah-Kate Boylan, founder and CEO of Lily’s Lighthouse. “This research underscores the potential of functional mushrooms to reduce seizure severity and enhance quality of life, providing an adjunctive therapy where traditional treatments often fall short. We are committed to advancing this promising science to bring hope and relief to those impacted by epilepsy.”

Research Director Matthew X. Lowe, Ph.D., at Realm of Caring, who administered the study, reported improvements beyond seizure control, including better mental health, cognitive function, and overall quality of life. In cases of drug-resistant epilepsy, some participants experienced clinically meaningful improvements or seizure freedom. The findings support conducting larger trials to further evaluate the efficacy, dosing, and safety of functional mushrooms such as Reishi and Lion’s Mane in epilepsy. These mushrooms were associated with reduced seizure severity and frequency, including in drug resistant cases.

ABOUT THE STUDY

The mixed-methods study, published in Pharmacological Research – Natural Products, surveyed and interviewed caregivers of children with epilepsy and adults living with the condition. Findings revealed that 94.7% of participants reported positive impacts from functional mushroom use on the way seizures affected their lives. Many reported reductions in both the frequency and severity of seizures, along with improvements in cognitive function, developmental milestones, and overall quality of life. The study also revealed correlations between reduced seizure severity, decreased caregiver burden, and lower perceived stress. Caregivers frequently described functional mushrooms as life-changing, with some reporting complete seizure freedom.

The full study, ‘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 is available in Pharmacological Research – Natural Products.

Epilepsy affects more than 70 million people worldwide, and nearly one-third of patients do not achieve seizure control with existing treatments. For those with drug-resistant epilepsy, the chance of reaching seizure freedom is less than 15%. The study’s findings suggest that functional mushrooms could play a meaningful role as a low-cost, low-risk adjunct therapy alongside conventional approaches.

About Lily's Lighthouse

Lily’s Lighthouse, a 501(c)3, is unwavering in its commitment to pioneering research that empowers families and transforms lives through innovative, accessible, and natural therapies for epilepsy. By strategically funding and supporting groundbreaking studies, the organization strives to bridge the critical gap between conventional medicine and natural treatments like functional mushrooms—bringing new hope and tangible solutions to millions worldwide.

Join Lily’s Lighthouse in making a difference. To donate, express your interest in future research, or learn more, visit https://lilyslighthouse.org/research today.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251103228798/en/

"This research underscores the potential of functional mushrooms to reduce seizure severity and enhance quality of life, providing an adjunctive therapy where traditional treatments often fall short."