Reishi mushrooms, (Ganoderma lucidum) , also known as Lingzhi mushrooms, are a type of fungus. They have been revered for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and other Asian cultures for their purported health-promoting properties. Reishi mushrooms are characterized by their distinctive appearance, which typically includes a shiny, reddish-brown cap with a kidney or fan-like shape and a woody texture.
Cultivation of Reishi Mushrooms
All mushrooms are the “fruit” of fungi, as well as the reproductive part. Reishi can be found growing up from underground networks called mycelium near organic waste and logs, which are both a good nutrient source. Given the right conditions, Reishi can be cultivated and used medicinally.
Use of Reishi Mushrooms
Reishi Mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) are not often used in cooking because they are hard and have a bitter taste, although some people do use them in the same dishes that you might use Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes). But you are unlikely to find them at your favorite market. They are mainly used for purely medicinal purposes and have a number of health benefits. In fact, it is known among practitioners of Chinese medicine as the “king of herbs.”
Reishi Mushrooms in the Eastern World
The Eastern world has been using Reishi for thousands of years, particularly in China and Japan. Even the ancient kings and emperors drank Reishi tea because it was believed that its properties encouraged vigor and long life. They also thought that the tea would increase their wisdom and happiness.
Reishi Mushrooms Reached the Western World
The use of Reishi mushrooms has reached the Western World where people are making elixirs from the mushroom for the purpose of promoting vitality and longevity. It is also used to treat certain medical conditions.
Health Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms
Reishi mushrooms are often referred to as “the mushroom of immortality” or “the mushroom of spiritual potency” in traditional Chinese medicine due to their association with longevity, vitality and overall well-being. They are believed to contain a variety of bioactive compounds that contribute to their potential health benefits, including polysaccharides, triterpenes, sterols and antioxidants.
Some of the potential health benefits associated with reishi mushrooms include:
Reishi Mushroom Antioxidant Properties
Reishi mushrooms are rich in strong antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body. They protect the body from the negative effects of free radicals that are formed inside the body by daily exposure to the sun, chemicals and pollutants. Antioxidants play a role in protecting cells from damage and may help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Reishi Mushrooms to Prevent Cancer
It is believed that Reishi can suppress the growth of tumors in people with cancer. It can reinforce the membranes in cancerous cells to keep the tumor from spreading. For this reason, they are often used in efforts to prevent cancers.
Reishi Mushrooms for Stress Reduction
Reishi mushrooms are considered adaptogens, meaning they help the body adapt to, and cope with, stress more effectively. They are often used to promote relaxation, improve sleep quality and enhance overall resilience to stress.
Reishi Mushrooms Relieve Respiratory Conditions
Reishi Mushrooms are beneficial for people suffering from asthma and other respiratory conditions because it seems to have a healing effect on the lungs. They are good for building respiratory strength and curbing a cough.
Reishi Mushrooms for Immune Support
Reishi are proven to boost the immune system. They have immunomodulatory properties, meaning they may help regulate and strengthen the immune system. They are often used to support overall immune function and may be particularly beneficial during times of stress or illness.
Anti-inflammatory Effects of Reishi Mushrooms
Reishi mushrooms contain compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties and are therefore been used for patients with; Alzheimer’s, heart disease, arthritis and asthma. This is based on the idea that inflammation plays a part in each of these conditions.
The pain that accompanies other inflammatory conditions like neuralgia and arthritis may also be lessened by Reishi supplements, by helping to reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions.
Reishi Mushrooms for Cardiovascular Health
Reishi mushrooms have been traditionally used for their health benefits related to heart health, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
While scientific research on the effects of reishi mushrooms on these specific aspects of cardiovascular health is ongoing, several mechanisms have been proposed to explain their potential benefits:
Antioxidant Activity: Reishi mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, including polysaccharides, triterpenes and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body, including the cardiovascular system. By protecting against oxidative damage to blood vessels and tissues, reishi mushrooms may help support heart health.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation is a contributing factor to the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and hypertension. Reishi mushrooms contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the blood vessels and improve overall vascular health.
Blood Pressure Regulation: Some research suggests that reishi mushrooms may help regulate blood pressure levels. Studies in animals and humans have shown that reishi extract supplementation may lead to modest reductions in blood pressure, possibly through mechanisms such as vasodilation and relaxation of blood vessels.
Cholesterol Modulation: High levels of cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), are a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke. Reishi mushrooms may help regulate cholesterol metabolism and reduce LDL cholesterol levels, potentially by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis in the liver and promoting its excretion.
Improved Circulation: Reishi mushrooms are believed to support overall circulation and blood flow, which can benefit cardiovascular health. By improving blood flow, reishi mushrooms may help deliver oxygen and nutrients more efficiently to the heart and other tissues, reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications.
While the potential cardiovascular benefits of reishi mushrooms are promising, more research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action and clinical effects. It’s also important to note that reishi mushrooms should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to heart health, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and managing other risk factors such as smoking and stress.
Reishi Mushrooms for Liver Health
Reishi mushrooms have been traditionally used in various cultures for their potential health benefits, including liver support. Preliminary studies and traditional use suggest that Reishi mushrooms offer benefits for supporting liver health and function, protect against liver diseases and support the detoxification processes and the elimination of toxins from the body.
While scientific research on the specific effects of reishi mushrooms on liver health is ongoing, several mechanisms have been proposed to explain how they may support liver function:
Antioxidant Activity: Reishi mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, including polysaccharides, triterpenes, and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the liver. By protecting liver cells from oxidative damage, reishi mushrooms may support overall liver health and function.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation plays a role in the development and progression of liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis. Reishi mushrooms contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the liver and mitigate damage to liver tissue.
Immune Modulation: Reishi mushrooms are known for their immunomodulatory effects, meaning they can modulate the activity of the immune system. By regulating immune responses, reishi mushrooms may help prevent autoimmune reactions that can contribute to liver inflammation and damage.
Detoxification Support: The liver plays a crucial role in detoxifying harmful substances from the body. Reishi mushrooms contain compounds that may support liver detoxification processes by enhancing the activity of enzymes involved in detoxification pathways.
Hepatoprotective Effects: Some research suggests that reishi mushrooms have hepatoprotective properties, meaning they can protect the liver from damage caused by toxins, drugs, and other harmful agents. By promoting liver cell regeneration and repair, reishi mushrooms may help maintain liver function and prevent liver diseases.
Cholesterol Regulation: High levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood can contribute to fatty liver disease and other liver-related conditions. Reishi mushrooms may help regulate lipid metabolism and reduce cholesterol levels, which could benefit liver health.
Active Ingredients in Reishi Mushrooms
So exactly what is in Reishi Mushrooms that give them so many health benefits? Scientists have learned one active ingredient is polysaccharides, which contain beta glucan. Beta glucan is known for its ability to enhance the immune system – in fact it is one of the strongest immune system supplements there is.
Another ingredient in Reishi is triterpenes. The type found in Reishi is Ganoderic Acid, which has been proven in studies to ease the symptoms of allergies by stopping the release of histamines. It also can improve the body’s use of oxygen and help the liver function better.
More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action and potential health benefits of reishi mushrooms.
How to Take Reishi Mushrooms
The benefits of Reishi Mushrooms are so well known and proven that you can get them in forms that are much convenient that slicing them up and cooking with them. You can buy them dried, powdered extracts, concentrated tablets, capsules and tinctures. In any of these forms Reishi can be used as a dietary supplement.
They are also sometimes used in culinary dishes, although their tough and bitter taste may not be appealing to everyone.
Reishi Mushroom Supplements Recommended Dose
The recommended daily dose when using Reishi mushrooms as a dietary supplement is 150 to 900 mg if taken in tablet or capsule form or 1.5 to 9 grams of the dried variety.
Always take care when taking herbs and Read Our Disclaimer.
Reishi Mushrooms Notes / Side Effects
While reishi mushrooms are generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts, there are potential side effects and considerations to be aware of, especially when taken in large doses or for extended periods. Some people who take them for a period of several months may experience dry mouth, dizziness, stomach discomfort or nosebleeds.
Some possible side effects of reishi mushrooms include:
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to reishi mushrooms or other fungi in the Ganoderma genus. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms such as itching, rash, or hives to more severe reactions such as difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis. If you experience any allergic symptoms after consuming reishi mushrooms, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
Gastrointestinal Disturbances: In some cases, consuming reishi mushrooms may cause mild gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, or bloating. These symptoms are typically temporary and resolve on their own but may occur, particularly when consuming high doses or concentrated extracts.
Blood Thinning: Reishi mushrooms contain compounds that may have anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effects. While this can be beneficial for cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of blood clots, it may also increase the risk of bleeding, especially when taken in conjunction with anticoagulant medications such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications should use reishi mushrooms with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Low Blood Pressure: Some individuals may experience a temporary drop in blood pressure after consuming reishi mushrooms, particularly when taken in higher doses. This effect may be more pronounced in individuals with low blood pressure or those taking medications to lower blood pressure. Monitoring blood pressure levels is advisable, especially when starting reishi mushroom supplementation.
Liver Function: While reishi mushrooms are traditionally used to support liver health, there have been rare reports of liver toxicity associated with their use, particularly with long-term or high-dose supplementation. Individuals with liver disease or liver conditions should use reishi mushrooms cautiously and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Interactions with Medications: Reishi mushrooms may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, antihypertensives (blood pressure-lowering medications), and immunosuppressants. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using reishi mushrooms, especially if you are taking medications or have underlying health conditions.
Consult with a healthcare professional before using Reishi Mushrooms if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding or are taking medications.
If you experience any adverse reactions or side effects after consuming reishi mushrooms, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional for further guidance. As with any supplement, it’s essential to use reishi mushrooms responsibly and in accordance with recommended dosage guidelines.
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