📅 Updated November 2025 | ⏱️ 12 min read

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Table of Contents

1. What is a Lion's Mane Drink?
2. Science-Backed Benefits of Lion's Mane
3. Lion's Mane Shot vs Drink vs Supplement
4. How Much Lion's Mane Should You Take?
5. Best Lion's Mane Drinks & Shots 2025
6. Lion's Mane vs Kratom vs Kava: Which is Right for You?
7. Where to Buy Lion's Mane Near Me
8. Lion's Mane Stick Packs & Portable Options
9. Frequently Asked Questions

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If you've been searching for "lion's mane drink near me" or wondering about the best lion's mane shot options, you're in the right place. This ancient mushroom has exploded in popularity as the go-to ingredient for sharper focus, better memory, and sustained mental energy without the jitters that come from traditional energy drinks.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything about lion's mane drinks—from the science behind the benefits to finding the perfect lion's mane shot for your lifestyle, and how it compares to other popular botanicals like kratom and kava.

🚀 Quick Takeaway

Lion's mane drinks contain extracts from the Hericium erinaceus mushroom, scientifically proven to support cognitive function, nerve health, and mental clarity. Available in shots, beverages, stick packs, and supplements, they offer a natural alternative to coffee and energy drinks for sustained focus and energy.

What is a Lion's Mane Drink?

A lion's mane drink is a functional beverage infused with extracts from the lion's mane mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)—a distinctive white, shaggy fungus native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Unlike psychedelic mushrooms, lion's mane is completely legal, non-psychoactive, and widely available throughout the United States.

Types of Lion's Mane Products Available

Lion's mane comes in various convenient formats designed for different lifestyles:

Lion's Mane Shots: Concentrated 2-3 oz bottles delivering 500-2,000mg of extract per serving for immediate consumption. Perfect for busy professionals seeking quick mental clarity.

Ready-to-Drink Beverages: 8-12 oz canned drinks, often sparkling and flavored, providing a refreshing coffee alternative with sustained cognitive benefits.

Lion's Mane Stick Packs: Single-serve powder packets ideal for travel, mixing into coffee, smoothies, or water. No mess, no measuring required.

Mushroom Coffee Blends: Pre-mixed powder combining lion's mane with organic coffee for enhanced focus without the typical caffeine crash.

Tablets & Capsules: Precise dosing in convenient pill form, though liquid extracts generally offer superior bioavailability and faster absorption.

Tonics & Elixirs: Concentrated liquid extracts that can be mixed into cocktails, mocktails, or hot beverages for versatile consumption.

💡 Did You Know?

Lion's mane has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2,000 years to support brain health, memory, and longevity. Modern neuroscience is now validating what ancient healers knew intuitively—this remarkable mushroom stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) production, promoting actual brain cell regeneration.

Science-Backed Benefits of Lion's Mane Drinks 

The explosion in lion's mane drink popularity isn't just wellness hype—there's substantial peer-reviewed research backing the cognitive benefits. Here's what clinical studies demonstrate:

🧠 Enhanced Cognitive Function & Memory

Lion's mane contains two unique compounds—hericenones and erinacines—that cross the blood-brain barrier and stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF). This protein is essential for the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons.

A landmark 2019 double-blind study published in Biomedical Research found that adults with mild cognitive impairment who supplemented with 1,000mg of lion's mane daily for 16 weeks showed significant improvements in cognitive function scores compared to the placebo group.

⚡ Superior Focus & Mental Clarity Without Jitters

Unlike caffeine-heavy energy drinks that often cause jitters and crashes, lion's mane provides smooth, sustained mental sharpness. Users consistently report improved concentration lasting 4-6 hours without the anxiety or restlessness associated with high-dose caffeine products.

When combined with moderate caffeine (80-100mg), lion's mane creates a synergistic effect—the alertness of caffeine paired with the neuroprotective benefits of the mushroom, resulting in optimal cognitive performance.

🎯 Reduced Brain Fog & Mental Fatigue

The bioactive polysaccharides in lion's mane help clear mental haziness, especially during afternoon energy slumps. Unlike sugary energy drinks that provide temporary spikes followed by crashes, lion's mane supports sustained mental energy by optimizing cellular function rather than artificially stimulating the nervous system.

😌 Mood Support & Stress Reduction

Multiple studies suggest lion's mane may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and mild depression. A 2010 study in Biomedical Research found that women who consumed lion's mane cookies for four weeks reported reduced feelings of irritation and anxiety compared to the placebo group.

The mechanism appears to involve reduced inflammation in the hippocampus—the brain region responsible for emotional processing and memory formation.

🛡️ Neuroprotection & Anti-Aging Benefits

Antioxidants in lion's mane, particularly ergothioneine, protect neurons from oxidative stress and inflammation—two key factors in age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.

Animal studies demonstrate that lion's mane extract can reduce amyloid-beta plaques (associated with Alzheimer's disease) and protect against excitotoxicity, a process where neurons are damaged by overstimulation.

🔋 Natural, Sustained Energy

When formulated with natural caffeine sources (green tea, yerba mate, or guarana), lion's mane drinks provide clean energy without the harsh spike-and-crash cycle of traditional energy drinks or multiple cups of coffee.

What the Research Actually Says

The scientific evidence for lion's mane is growing rapidly:

• Clinical trials show measurable improvements in cognitive test scores after 8-16 weeks of supplementation
• Neurological research confirms lion's mane stimulates NGF synthesis, supporting neurogenesis (creation of new brain cells)
• Animal studies demonstrate significant neuroprotective effects and potential for nerve regeneration after injury
• Human trials indicate benefits for processing speed, attention, and working memory

✅ Pro Tip for Maximum Benefits

Consistency is absolutely critical. Most users report noticeable cognitive improvements after 2-4 weeks of daily consumption, with optimal benefits appearing around the 8-12 week mark. Lion's mane works by promoting long-term neurological health, not by providing an immediate stimulant effect.

For best results, take your lion's mane drink or shot at the same time each day, preferably in the morning or before mentally demanding tasks.

Lion's Mane Shot vs Drink vs Supplement: What's the Difference? 

Confused about which lion's mane format is right for your lifestyle? Here's an evidence-based breakdown:

Why Choose a Lion's Mane Shot?

If maximum convenience meets premium potency, a lion's mane shot is your optimal choice. Here's why thousands are making the switch from coffee and traditional energy drinks:

Instant Consumption: No mixing, no brewing, no preparation. Twist the cap and drink—ready in seconds for immediate cognitive support.

Controlled, Clinical Dosing: Every shot delivers exactly 500-2,000mg of standardized lion's mane extract. No guessing, no under-dosing, no waste.

Rapid Absorption: Liquid extracts bypass digestive breakdown required for capsules, entering your bloodstream faster for quicker cognitive effects.

Travel-Friendly: TSA-approved, fits in any bag, pocket, or gym locker. Take it anywhere without refrigeration.

Enhanced Formulations: Premium brands combine lion's mane with synergistic ingredients—L-theanine for calm focus, adaptogenic herbs like rhodiola for stress resilience, B-vitamins for energy metabolism, and natural caffeine for alertness.

Consistent Results: Unlike powders that may clump or separate, liquid shots ensure uniform distribution of active compounds in every serving.

How Much Lion's Mane Should You Take? {#dosage}

Optimal dosage varies based on extract concentration, product format, and individual goals. Here's what leading mycologists and research studies recommend:

Recommended Daily Dosages by Format

Lion's Mane Extract (Standardized): 500-3,000mg per day

• Beginners: Start with 500-750mg daily
• Regular users: 1,000-1,500mg daily (most common sweet spot)
• Advanced users: 2,000-3,000mg for intensive cognitive demands

Lion's Mane Powder (Whole Mushroom): 1-3 grams per day

• Note: Whole mushroom powder is less concentrated than extracts; you need more volume for equivalent benefits

Fresh Lion's Mane Mushroom (Culinary): 50-100 grams

• When cooking with fresh mushrooms, therapeutic compounds are less concentrated than extracts

Ready-Made Shots/Drinks: Follow product label

• Quality brands like Jubi provide 500-2,000mg per serving
• Most effective products contain at least 1,000mg per dose

Optimal Timing for Lion's Mane Consumption

Timing significantly impacts how you experience cognitive benefits:

Morning (6-9 AM): Ideal for establishing all-day mental clarity, focus, and cognitive baseline. Pairs excellently with breakfast or morning coffee for sustained productivity.

Pre-Workout (30-60 minutes before): Enhances mind-muscle connection, improves exercise form, and boosts mental endurance during demanding training sessions.

Before Studying/Important Work (30-45 minutes prior): Optimizes concentration, information retention, and problem-solving capabilities during cognitively demanding tasks like exams, presentations, or creative work.

Afternoon Energy Boost (1-3 PM): Combats the notorious post-lunch slump without disrupting evening sleep patterns. Provides clean energy through the afternoon without caffeine overload.

Avoid Evening: While lion's mane itself isn't stimulating, many products contain caffeine. Unless you're using a caffeine-free formulation, avoid consumption after 4 PM to prevent sleep disruption.

💪 Performance Optimization Hack

Elite athletes, competitive students, and high-performing professionals take a lion's mane shot 30-45 minutes before peak performance situations—major presentations, athletic competitions, critical exams, or important negotiations. This timing allows active compounds to reach peak blood concentration exactly when you need maximum cognitive function.

⚠️ Critical Safety Guidelines

Start Low, Go Slow: Begin with the minimum effective dose (500mg) and assess your individual response over 7-10 days before increasing.

Consult Healthcare Providers: If pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications (especially blood thinners or immunosuppressants), or managing medical conditions, always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

Quality Matters Enormously: Choose products using fruiting body extracts (not mycelium on grain), standardized to contain verified hericenones and erinacines. Third-party testing ensures purity and potency.

Be Patient: Lion's mane supports long-term neurological health through neurogenesis and neuroprotection. While some users notice subtle improvements within days, allow 2-4 weeks for full adaptive effects to develop.

Cycle Strategically: Some practitioners recommend taking weekends off or cycling 5 days on, 2 days off to prevent tolerance, though research doesn't conclusively support this necessity.

Best Lion's Mane Drinks & Shots in 2025 {#best-products}

The market is saturated with lion's mane products of wildly varying quality. Here's what separates premium products from inferior options:

Critical Quality Indicators

1. Fruiting Body vs Mycelium: The fruiting body (actual mushroom) contains significantly higher concentrations of hericenones and erinacines—the bioactive compounds responsible for cognitive benefits. Avoid products primarily made from mycelium grown on grain, which dilutes active ingredients with starch.

2. Extract Ratio: Look for 8:1 or higher (meaning 8 grams of raw mushroom concentrated into 1 gram of extract). Higher ratios indicate more potent formulations. Premium products may offer 10:1 or even 14:1 extracts.

3. Third-Party Testing: Reputable brands provide certificates of analysis (COA) from independent laboratories verifying:

• Active compound content
• Heavy metal screening
• Microbial contamination testing
• Pesticide residue analysis

4. No Fillers or Adulterants: Avoid products bulked with grain, starch, maltodextrin, or undefined "proprietary blends." Transparent ingredient lists indicate ethical manufacturing.

5. Organic Certification: Ensures mushrooms grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers that could concentrate in the final product.

6. Proper Extraction Method: Hot water extraction (also called dual extraction when combined with alcohol) is essential for bioavailability. This process breaks down chitin cell walls, releasing locked compounds that wouldn't survive digestion otherwise.

7. Standardization: Premium extracts standardize to specific percentages of beta-glucans (immune-supporting polysaccharides) and ideally specify hericenones/erinacines content.

What to Avoid in Lion's Mane Products

❌ "Mushroom Blend" Products: Multi-mushroom formulas often under-dose each ingredient, providing insufficient amounts for therapeutic effects.

❌ Mycelium on Grain: Significantly less potent than pure fruiting body extracts; grain filler dilutes active compounds.

❌ Proprietary Blends: When manufacturers hide specific ingredient amounts, they're usually under-dosing expensive ingredients.

❌ Artificial Additives: Synthetic colors, flavors, and preservatives have no place in wellness products.

❌ Unrealistic Claims: Any product promising "instant intelligence" or "cure-all" benefits is misleading. Lion's mane supports cognitive function—it's not a miracle drug.

Comparing Lion's Mane Brands: What Makes Jubi Stand Out

While this guide covers lion's mane specifically, consumers interested in comprehensive cognitive enhancement should explore complementary botanicals. Leading wellness brands like Jubi offer sophisticated formulations combining multiple evidence-based ingredients:

Premium Extract Sources: Top-tier brands source lion's mane from certified organic farms using sustainable cultivation methods, ensuring maximum potency and purity.

Balanced Formulations: The best cognitive enhancement products combine lion's mane with complementary ingredients—moderate caffeine (80-100mg) for alertness, L-theanine for calm focus, and adaptogenic herbs for stress resilience.

Exceptional Taste Profiles: Quality matters, but so does enjoyment. Premium brands invest in flavor development to mask the naturally earthy, bitter taste of mushroom extracts without excessive sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Clean Label Philosophy: No artificial additives, synthetic preservatives, or unnecessary fillers. Just functional ingredients backed by research.

Convenient Formats: Whether you prefer shots, stick packs, or ready-to-drink beverages, premium brands offer multiple formats to match your lifestyle.

Verified Testing: Every batch tested by independent third-party laboratories with publicly available certificates of analysis (COA).

🔍 Real Customer Experience

"I've experimented with six different lion's mane products over the past year, and the difference in quality is staggering. The best shots provide noticeable mental clarity within 30-40 minutes—no jitters, no crash, just clean focus that lasts through my workday. Cheaper products either tasted awful or simply didn't work. Investing in quality makes a massive difference." — Sarah M., verified wellness enthusiast

Lion's Mane vs Kratom vs Kava: Which Botanical is Right for You? 

Understanding how different plant-based cognitive enhancers compare helps you choose the right option for your specific goals. Here's an honest, evidence-based comparison:

The Three-Way Comparison

Factor	Lion's Mane	Kratom	Kava
Primary Benefit	Cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection	Energy, focus, mood elevation	Relaxation, stress relief
Mechanism	Stimulates NGF production	Interacts with opioid receptors	Modulates GABA receptors
Onset Time	30-60 minutes	15-30 minutes	20-45 minutes
Duration	4-8 hours	3-6 hours	2-5 hours
Best For	Long-term brain health, memory, focus	Quick energy, physical endurance	Anxiety relief, social situations
Legal Status	Legal everywhere	Legal federally; restricted in some states	Legal in most states
Psychoactive	No	Mild	Mild
Dependency Risk	None	Moderate with daily use	Low
Scientific Research	Extensive	Growing	Substantial

When to Choose Lion's Mane

Choose lion's mane drink or lion's mane shot when you want:

✅ Long-term cognitive enhancement and brain health support
✅ Neuroprotection against age-related decline
✅ Improved memory, learning, and information retention
✅ Non-stimulating mental clarity
✅ A completely non-psychoactive, dependency-free option
✅ Something safe for daily, long-term use
✅ Products legal in all 50 states without restrictions

Ideal users: Students, professionals, seniors concerned about cognitive health, anyone seeking sustainable brain optimization.

When to Choose Kratom

Choose kratom shots or kratom energy drinks when you want:

✅ Rapid-onset energy and physical stamina
✅ Enhanced motivation and mood elevation
✅ Relief from physical discomfort
✅ Increased productivity during demanding tasks
✅ Natural alternative to caffeine-heavy energy drinks

Ideal users: Athletes, manual laborers, individuals with physically demanding jobs, those seeking mood support.

Important: Kratom is federally legal but restricted in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin, and certain counties. Always verify local regulations before purchasing.

When to Choose Kava

Choose kava shots or kava drinks when you want:

✅ Stress and anxiety relief without sedation
✅ Social relaxation and reduced inhibitions
✅ Better sleep quality and nighttime relaxation
✅ Alcohol-free social beverage alternative
✅ Gentle mood enhancement

Ideal users: Individuals managing stress, social anxiety, or seeking natural relaxation after work.

Combining Botanicals: Kava-Kratom Blends

Innovative brands now offer kratom and kava shots that combine both botanicals for balanced effects:

Benefits of Combination Products:

• Kratom provides energy and focus
• Kava adds relaxation and stress relief
• Synergistic effect: "calm energy" or "relaxed focus"
• Reduced jitteriness compared to pure stimulants

Popular combination format: Piña Colada-flavored kratom and kava relaxation shots that deliver both energy and calm simultaneously—perfect for high-stress situations requiring mental clarity without anxiety.

What About Combining Lion's Mane with Kratom or Kava?

Many wellness enthusiasts stack different botanicals:

Lion's Mane + Kratom Focus Shot: Enhanced cognitive function plus physical energy—ideal for demanding work projects or intense study sessions.

Lion's Mane + Kava Chill Shot: Neuroprotection plus stress relief—perfect for high-pressure situations requiring both mental clarity and emotional calm.

All Three Together: Some users report the "ultimate stack"—long-term brain health (lion's mane), short-term energy (kratom), and stress management (kava) for comprehensive wellness support.

Where to Buy Lion's Mane Near Me {#where-to-buy}

Searching for "lion's mane near me" or "lion's mane drink near me"? Here are your best options for purchasing quality products:

Online Retailers (Best Selection, Prices & Freshness)

Brand Direct Websites: Shopping directly from manufacturers like Jubi ensures:

• Freshest possible products (no warehouse aging)
• Best pricing without retail markup
• Subscription discounts (typically 10-20% off)
• Free shipping thresholds ($50+ orders)
• Direct customer service from product experts
• Access to exclusive formulations and limited editions

Amazon: Widest selection with fast Prime shipping, though verify seller authenticity and check recent reviews for quality consistency.

Thrive Market: Members-only organic marketplace offering 25-50% discounts on wellness products with focus on sustainability.

iHerb: Excellent international shipping, extensive product reviews, frequent sales and promotions.

Vitacost & Lucky Vitamin: Competitive pricing on bulk orders with frequent BOGO deals.

Physical Retail Locations

Whole Foods Market: Growing functional mushroom section in supplement aisle; look for refrigerated shots near kombucha and health beverages. Availability varies by region—urban locations stock more variety.

Sprouts Farmers Market: Expanding herbal supplement selection; knowledgeable staff can special-order products. Check the "Wellness" aisle and refrigerated section.

Natural Grocers/Vitamin Cottage: Focus on organic, clean-label products. Strict quality standards mean limited but high-quality selection.

GNC & The Vitamin Shoppe: Traditional supplement retailers expanding into functional beverages. Ask staff about new arrivals—inventory updates monthly.

Local Health Food Stores: Independent retailers often carry regional brands and provide personalized recommendations. Support local businesses while accessing unique products.

Convenience Stores & Gas Stations: Increasing availability of wellness shots (including kratom and kava products from brands like Jubi) near energy drinks and coffee sections. Quality varies—check expiration dates.

Finding Lion's Mane Shots Near You

Use Brand Store Locators: Visit manufacturer websites and use "Store Locator" or "Find Retailers" tools. Enter your ZIP code to see nearby stockists.

Call Ahead: Before traveling, call stores to verify current stock—wellness products sell quickly and restocking schedules vary.

Check Multiple Locations: Chain stores within the same company may carry different inventory based on local demand patterns.

Ask for Special Orders: Most health food stores will special-order products if you commit to purchasing multiple units.

State-by-State Availability Considerations

Lion's Mane: Legal and available nationwide without restrictions. No states ban lion's mane mushroom products.

Kratom Products: If you're also interested in kratom shots near me or kratom drinks near me, note that kratom is restricted in:

• States: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, Wisconsin
• Counties: Sarasota County (FL), Union County (MS)
• Cities: Denver (CO), San Diego (CA)

Kava Products: Generally legal nationwide, though some states have specific regulations regarding kavalactone content in beverages.

💰 Money-Saving Tip

Subscribe directly from brand websites for automatic discounts:

• 10-20% off every order with subscription
• Free shipping included in most plans
• Skip or cancel anytime with no penalties
• Never run out of your preferred products
• Early access to new flavors and formulations

Most direct-to-consumer brands offer flexible subscriptions—adjust delivery frequency from weekly to quarterly based on consumption patterns.

Why Buy Directly from Premium Brands Like Jubi

When purchasing kratom, kava, or other botanical supplements, buying directly from reputable manufacturers ensures:

🚚 Free shipping on orders over $50
💝 Subscribe & save up to 20% automatically
⚡ Freshest product shipped directly from production
🎁 Exclusive bundles and seasonal flavors not available in retail
📞 Expert customer support from people who formulate the products
🔬 Transparent sourcing and third-party testing documentation
✅ Quality guarantee with hassle-free returns on defective products

Lion's Mane Stick Packs & Portable Options {#portable}

For maximum portability and convenience, lion's mane stick packs and similar single-serve formats are gaining massive popularity among travelers, busy professionals, and fitness enthusiasts.

Benefits of Lion's Mane Stick Packs

Ultra-Portable: Slip 5-10 stick packs into your laptop bag, gym bag, or carry-on without taking up space or adding weight.

No Mess: Pre-measured single-serving packets eliminate measuring, scooping, and potential spills from powder containers.

Mix Anywhere: Stir into water, coffee, smoothies, protein shakes, or even oatmeal. Versatile application for any situation.

Travel-Friendly: TSA-compliant for air travel. No liquid restrictions. Perfect for international trips where access to supplements may be limited.

Fresher Longer: Individual packaging protects each serving from humidity, oxidation, and degradation—superior shelf life compared to bulk powder in frequently opened containers.

Cost-Effective: More economical than pre-mixed drinks while more convenient than bulk powder. The sweet spot between economy and convenience.

Customizable Strength: Easily adjust dosage by using full or partial packets based on personal needs and tolerance.

How to Use Lion's Mane Stick Packs

1. Tear open the single-serve packet
2. Pour into 6-12 oz of your preferred beverage (room temperature or warm liquid dissolves best)
3. Stir thoroughly for 30-60 seconds until fully dissolved
4. Drink immediately for optimal absorption and taste
5. Enjoy benefits within 30-45 minutes

Best Beverages to Mix With Lion's Mane Powder

• Morning coffee: Enhances caffeine's alertness while reducing jitters
• Green tea: Synergistic L-theanine + lion's mane for ultimate focus
• Protein shakes: Post-workout cognitive recovery
• Smoothies: Masks earthy taste with fruit flavors
• Oat milk: Creamy texture and subtle sweetness
• Warm almond milk: Evening ritual for caffeine-free cognitive support

Comparing Kratom Stick Packs

For those interested in exploring beyond lion's mane, kratom stick packs offer similar convenience for energy and focus:

Portable Kratom Formats Available:

• Single-serve powder stick packs (5-10 flavors)
• Ready-to-drink kratom shots (2 oz)
• Kratom tablets (for zero-taste convenience)
• Kratom and kava combination shots

Brands like Jubi offer comprehensive product lines including kratom stick packs in multiple flavors—Cherry, Lime, Piña Colada, and more—providing flexibility based on taste preferences and desired effects.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lion's Mane Drinks 

Does lion's mane drink get you high?

Absolutely not. Lion's mane is completely non-psychoactive and contains no psilocybin, psilocin, or other hallucinogenic compounds found in "magic mushrooms." It's a culinary and medicinal mushroom that's been safely consumed for centuries.

You'll experience improved mental clarity, focus, and potentially better mood—but no altered state of consciousness, euphoria, or "high" sensation. Lion's mane is legal in all 50 states precisely because it has no intoxicating effects.

Think of lion's mane like high-quality green tea or ginkgo biloba—a cognitive enhancer, not a mind-altering substance.

How quickly does a lion's mane shot work?

Timeline of effects:

15-30 minutes: Some users report subtle improvements in mental clarity as active compounds enter the bloodstream.

30-60 minutes: Most people notice enhanced focus, reduced brain fog, and improved cognitive sharpness—particularly when combined with natural caffeine.

2-4 weeks: Full therapeutic benefits develop as lion's mane promotes neurogenesis (growth of new brain cells) and strengthens existing neural pathways. This is when memory, learning capacity, and sustained cognitive performance improve most dramatically.

8-12 weeks: Maximum benefits typically manifest