Referred to as the “elixir of mortality” in ancient texts, reishi mushroom has been a staple of Chinese medicine for more than 4,000 years. 

The following article will explain how reishi works to enhance health, explore five of the most important reishi mushroom benefits backed by science, plus give additional information such as side effects, dosages, and when to take it to yield the best results.

What is Reishi?

Reishi mushroom, scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum, is a type of fungus that typically has a reddish-brown cap and a woody texture. 

They grow on hardwood trees and are native to parts of Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea.

They are commonly consumed in various forms, including teas, extracts, capsules, and powders, as a dietary supplement to support health and well-being.

How does Reishi work?

In traditional medicine, reishi mushrooms are believed to boost the immune system, promote longevity, and improve overall health. 

They are rich in bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, triterpenes, proteins, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which are thought to contribute to their therapeutic effects.

This included antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-aging, and immunomodulatory effects. 

Consequently, G. lucidum is extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of various diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, nervous and immune system disorders 

Modern research has also shown promising results regarding the potential health benefits of reishi mushrooms, including their anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer (prostate, lung, breast, and colon), and anti-fatigue properties. 

What are the side effects of reishi?

There have been no reports of toxicity associated with the general use of reishi. 

However, one study reported that patients experienced short-term symptoms such as thirst, drowsiness, redness, bloating, frequent urination, abnormal sweating, and diarrhea when given oral doses of 1.5–9g of reishi extract per day.

Before considering supplementing with reishi, pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with low blood pressure or those taking blood thinners, and those planning surgery should consult their healthcare providers.

Reishi has been known to lower blood pressure and there's evidence suggesting it may interact with blood thinners.

Rest assured, Reishi doesn't produce a high or hallucinations as it lacks psychedelic properties.

5 Proven Benefits of Reishi

1. Protects brain  

A number of recent studies have shown that reishi mushroom has profound neuroprotective effects, and may even be useful in treating or preventing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Studies show it can delay the progression of Alzheimer’s, improve cognitive function and quality of life. 

It works by preventing brain cells from dying, modulating the immune system to suppress inflammation, and inhibiting an enzyme that stops the transmission of nerve impulses in the brain. 

2. Reduces blood sugar

Recent research has focused on the benefits of resihi in treating metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity.

Triterpenoids, polysaccharides and proteins are major groups of bioactive compounds found in reishi mushrooms, and they have a range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

These compounds have also been found to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in animal models of diabetes and obesity. 

High blood sugar levels and insulin resistance are precursors to a range of physical and mental health issues. 

Read: This Diet Will Improve Your Mental Health

3. Enhances immune system

Polysaccharides found in reishi have been shown to increase the activity of certain white blood cells, which play a critical role in the body’s immune response. 

It has been shown that polysaccharides in reishi stimulate support immune function by increasing the production of T cells, cytokines, monocytes, and macrophages. 

Among these polysaccharides, beta-glucans have an important role in the immune system. 

It has been reported that beta-glucans have a mechanism to prevent infections, including COVID-19, due to increased inflammatory responses by upregulating pattern recognition receptors. 

Our high-strength reishi capsules contain 50% polysaccharides with 30% of those beta-glucans, making them one of the most potent extracts on the market.  

4. Anti cancer effects

Resihi-derived polysaccharides and triterpenoids have been found to have anticancer effects through various mechanisms. 

The polysaccharides from reishi act by stimulating the immune system to produce cytokines and activate the anticancer activities of immune cells. 

Apart from boosting the immune system, polysaccharides can also hinder tumor growth by promoting the death of cancer cells. 

It has also been reported that triterpenoids found in reishi show anticancer activity by inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells and suppressing the attack of cancerous cells.

Furthermore, reishi contains other valuable bioactive compounds that can mitigate the toxicity of conventional chemotherapy and/or radiation and enhance the immune system of cancer patients. 

5. Reduces fatigue 

Lots of people have found that taking reishi reduces fatigue.

One older study examined 132 people with neurasthenia, a condition associated with aches, pains, dizziness, headaches, and irritability, who took reishi for 8 weeks. 

The researchers found that fatigue was significantly reduced and well-being was improved when compared to placebo.

Another study on people with breast cancer found that taking reishi reduced fatigue, anxiety, and depression and improved quality of life after just one month.

How much reishi should you take?

As a general guideline, typical dosages for Reishi extract range from 1 to 3 grams per day, although some individuals may take higher doses depending on their needs and the concentration of the extract. 

Our high-strength Reishi capsules contain 0.425g of extract per capsule, and we recommend taking 1-4 per day. 

However, specific dosages may vary, and personalised recommendations based on your health status and individual needs can be useful.

When should you take reishi?

When to take reishi ultimately depends on your own preference, health goals, and how your body reacts to the supplement. 

However, some people prefer taking reishi supplements with meals to help with absorption and minimise any potential gastrointestinal discomfort. 

Taking Reishi with food can also help distribute the active compounds more evenly throughout the digestive system.

Reishi is also often used before bed due to its calming and sleep-promoting effects. Its adaptogenic properties may also help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm, which can be beneficial before bedtime.

Alternatively, some people prefer taking reishi in the morning to start their day to maintain energy levels throughout the day.

Ultimately, the best time to take Reishi depends on your individual schedule, preferences, and desired outcomes. Listen to your body and adjust based on things like how it affects your energy levels, sleep patterns, and overall well-being. 

Conclusion

Reishi mushroom, scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum, has been revered for its medicinal properties for over 4,000 years in Chinese medicine. 

It has a diverse array of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, triterpenes, and antioxidants, which all contribute to its powerful health benefits.

Supported by scientific research, reishi offers numerous health benefits, most notably neuroprotective properties, the ability to lower blood sugar levels, enhancing the immune system, anticancer effects, and fatigue reducing effects.

With its long history of traditional use and growing scientific support, reishi is gaining the recognition it deserves as a valuable tool for health and longevity.

Buy one of the strongest reishi extracts on the market here.