Reishi Mushroom: An Ancient Herbal Medicine with Promising Effects

The reishi mushroom ( Ganoderma lucidum) is a fungus from the family Ganodermataceae.

It is also known by its Chinese name lingzhi and has historically been used in traditional medicine practices throughout Asia. Reishi extract is used to improve overall vitality and boost the immune system.

G. Lucidum is classified as a polypore, which means that instead of gills, it has tiny pores on its underside that act to distribute its spores. It is a bracket fungus that lives either as a parasite or a saprotroph.

Parasites survive on living organisms whereas saprotrophs feed on decaying matter. In the case of reishi mushrooms, they can commonly be found on decaying hardwood trees or stumps.

The mycelium and fruit of reishi are used to make teas, tinctures, decoctions and other forms of medicine.

Reishi Mushroom

Mushroom Supplement

Immune Booster

Heart Health

Longevity

How It Works:

• Traditional Chinese immune modulator
• Promotes healthy blood pressure & cholesterol
• Anti-oxidant used for anti-aging benefits

Dosage:

Between 400 - 1800 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Reishi Mushroom Review

Reishi mushrooms are used to enhance the immune system, combat hypertension, prevent fatigue, fight off viral infections like influenza, reduce the symptoms of asthma and bronchial disorders and reduce stress. These are only a selection of the wide-range of uses attributed to G. lucidum.

Reishi mushroom has a long history in traditional medicine. Researchers are currently investigating its therapeutic effects and mechanism of action.

The mushroom has been found to contain a variety of compounds that may account for some of its purported medicinal properties, including: polysaccharides, triterpenoids, coumarin, mannitol, fatty acids, proteins, peptides and ganolucidic acid.

The majority of studies conducted on reishi mushrooms have been either in the laboratory or on animal subjects. Although some results are promising, there is insufficient evidence to understand the effect on human health.

This means that while reishi is a common dietary supplement, it has not been incorporated into any conventional Western medicine practice.

Reishi Mushroom Uses

Reishi mushrooms are used for a variety of purposes, which include:

• Strengthening the immune system;
• Helping to prevent viral infections, such as avian flu and influenza;
• Treating the symptoms of asthma, bronchitis and other lung conditions;
• Reducing risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases;
• Lowering and moderating blood pressure;
• Decreasing LDL and total cholesterol levels;
• Elevating levels of HDL cholesterol;
• Supporting liver and/or kidney function;
• Anti-tumor effects;
• Treating chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS);
• Alleviating insomnia and other sleep issues;
• Relieving the symptoms of stomach ulcers;
• Reducing stress and increasing mental clarity/energy;

While the active ingredient of reishi has yet to be definitively established, ganoderic acids are thought to play a therapeutic role. Ganoderic acids are similar in molecular structure to steroid hormones. Further, reishi contains substances like polysaccharides, alkaloids and mannitol.

Reishi Mushroom Mechanisms of Action

Researchers are investigating the therapeutic effects of reishi mushrooms. Most studies have involved laboratory or animal models and few scientific studies exist to understand possible health benefits. In preliminary studies, the extract has been observed to:

• Exhibit anti-tumor effects;
• Diminish angina pains and breathing difficulties due to clogged arteries;
• Exhibit anti-viral effects;
• Increase hemoglobin synthesis, but not regulate blood glucose levels;
• Reduce hypertension;
• Temporarily treat pains associated with shingles outbreaks and herpes (in conjunction with other treatments).

Reishi Mushroom Dosages

Typical doses range from 1.5 grams to 9 grams of raw reishi per day. One milliliter of tincture daily or 1.5 grams of powdered lingzhi have also been used.

Not all reishi supplements sold in stores or online contain the same dosing of active ingredients.

Due to the lack of a standardized extract potency, different manufacturers may recommend different dosages for best results and to avoid side effects. Please consult with a doctor before starting reishi mushroom supplementation.

Reishi Mushroom Interactions

Reishi mushroom supplements have been observed to affect blood pressure and should be used with caution by those taking antihypertensive medications, including: Capoten (captopril), Cardizem (diltiazem), Diovan (valsartan), Norvasc (enalapril), Lasix (furosemide) and numerous others.

Reishi mushrooms may cause blood pressure to lower excessively if used in combination with antihypertensive drugs.

Reishi may also interact with drugs that slow blood clotting, including: Aspirin, Advil, Motrin, naproxen, heparin, warfarin and others. Conjunctive use may cause increased bruising and/or bleeding, especially in those with thrombocytopenia.

Reishi Mushroom Side Effects

Reishi mushrooms are generally well tolerated by humans. The most common reported side effects include skin rash, dizziness, dry mouth and headache. However, reishi powder supplementation may pose additional risks and has been associated with toxicity and death in an extremely small number of cases. [1]

Supplementation is not recommended for pregnant/nursing mothers, individuals suffering from Diabetes Mellitus type II, those with blood clotting issues and those scheduled for surgery within two weeks time. In all cases, it is important to speak with your doctor before you begin to take reishi mushroom.

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