Reishi is one of the most impressive functional mushrooms around.
It’s been shown to have various benefits for the brain, nervous system and immune system, and has a long history of therapeutic use in traditional medicine.
However, it can be hard to find a legit reishi supplement in the UK.
But lucky for you, I have scoured the market and separated the wheat from the chaff to guide to finding high-quality reishi mushroom supplements from reliable and trustworthy brands.
So read on to find out more…
Benefits of reishi mushroom
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-tumour, 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.
5 best reishi supplements in the UK
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High Strength Reishi Capsules from Mushies
Our high-strength reishi capsules are dual-extracted (to ensure a full spectrum of beneficial compounds) and are naturally grown on Duanwood logs without the use of pesticides or chemicals.
They are vegan-friendly with no fillers, ensuring pure reishi extract in every serving.
With 50% polysaccharides and 30% Beta 1,3/1,6 D Glucan, these capsules provide a potent dose of reishi mushroom extract for optimal benefits.
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Dual Extract Reishi Tincture from IWMushrooms
This is a high-quality dual extract tincture, made from log-grown Reishi mushroom grown on the Isle of Wight.
This potent tincture is crafted using alcohol sourced from their local distillery, is all-natural, vegan-friendly, and free from fillers and additives.
The tinctures' higher bioavailability allows your body to absorb the most from these powerful compounds, making this product an effective way to harness the potential of reishi.
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Reishi Capsules from Mushrooms 4 Life
This a premium supplement made from 100% fruiting body dual extract, sustainably harvested in its traditional home, Longquan district of China.
It’s grown on duanwood trees and the final product yields an impressive 30:1 extract ratio, meaning it’s high in the polysaccharides and triterpenes that give reishi its renowned health benefits.
With a minimum of 20% beta glucans and 4% triterpenes, this product is a a great choice that delivers the concentrated power of this powerful mushroom.
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Mico Vir Reishi And Cordyceps from Hifas da Terra
Hifas da Terra is a biotech company based in Spain that produces super high-quality supplements from medicinal mushrooms.
Their newly released Mico Vir supplement is one of our favourites, featuring a concentrated 4:1 extract of reishi and cordyceps.
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Red Reishi 10:1 Extract Powder from Hybrid Herbs
There are six different varieties of reishi mushroom, and duanwood red reishi - the most common - is what this supplement from Hybrid Herbs is made out of.
It has a woody, bitter taste and is good for making tea with. Reishi has been used for thousands of years to promote the healthy functioning of the immune system, fight stress and increase vitality.
5 Proven Benefits of Reishi
- 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.
- Reduces blood sugar
Recent research has focused on the benefits of reishi 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Scientific studies on reishi mushroom
Breast Cancer
In a groundbreaking 2022 Iranian study, researchers delved into the potential anti-cancer properties of reishi and shiitake polysaccharides.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35536497/
Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC)
A 2022 American study reveals reishi mushroom supplementation enhances the efficacy of chemotherapy.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35411244/
Skin cancer
A 2022 American study found reishi mushroom to demonstrate promising preventative effects against UV-induced skin tumour development.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8936451/
Anti-depressant
In a 2021 American study, researchers isolated an anti-depressive polysaccharide-peptide from reishi mushroom and showed its profound influence on brain function.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34716786/
Gut and Microbiota
A 2021 Chinese study unveils the potential of reishi mushroom as a promising prebiotic for treating colorectal cancer.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0144861721006184?via%3Dihub
General health
In a comprehensive 2021 Polish review, researchers summarise the multifaceted activity of reishi polysaccharides and their diverse health-promoting properties.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8400705/
Sleep
A 2021 Chinese study delves into the impact of reishi mushroom on gut microbiota and its resulting effects on sleep quality.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8249598/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874111008981?via%3Dihub
Cancer
In a 2020 Polish study, researchers reveal the synergistic benefits of combining reishi and turkey tail mushrooms with cancer treatments.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33685191/
Epilepsy
In a 2018 Chinese pilot study, researchers explore the potential of reishi spores in reducing seizure frequency among epilepsy patients.
Fibromyalgia
A 2015 Spanish randomised controlled trial showcases the positive impact of reishi supplementation on physical fitness in women suffering from fibromyalgia.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26545669/
Neurasthenia
In a 2005 New Zealand randomized, placebo-controlled trial, researchers demonstrate the superior efficacy of reishi mushroom supplementation in alleviating symptoms of Neurasthenia compared to a placebo.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15857210/
FAQs
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.
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 diarrhoea 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.
Is it safe to take Reishi every day?
Yes, it is generally safe to take Reishi mushroom supplements every day as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Reishi mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are considered to be a gentle and safe supplement for most people.
Remember to start with a low dosage and gradually increase as your body adapts to determine your optimal daily intake.
What is the most effective way to take Reishi mushroom?
The most effective way to take Reishi mushroom supplements is through a combination of methods, depending on your personal preferences and health goals.
Here are some popular ways to consume Reishi:
- Capsules: One of the most common forms of Reishi supplementation, capsules provide a convenient and standardised dosage.
- Dual-Extract Tincture: A liquid extract that offers higher bioavailability and faster absorption than other forms, making it an excellent choice for those seeking immediate benefits.
- Powder: Adding Reishi powder to smoothies or teas allows you to tailor your dosage and flavour preferences while providing a more direct delivery of the mushroom's compounds.
- Tea: Brewing Reishi mushrooms into tea provides a soothing and calming experience that can enhance relaxation, improve sleep quality, and promote overall well-being.
It is essential to choose high-quality products to ensure you're getting the most effective and pure supplement possible.
Is Reishi better than Lion's Mane?
Reishi and Lion's Mane are both unique mushrooms with their own distinct properties, benefits, and uses.
It's not accurate to say one is better than the other; instead, consider how each mushroom might complement your specific health goals or needs.
If you're looking for a mushroom with immune-supporting properties, Reishi might be a better choice. If you're interested in cognitive-enhancing benefits, Lion's Mane could be more suitable.
You can also consider combining both mushrooms for a synergistic effect that leverages their unique properties.
Conclusion
Finding high-quality mushroom supplements can be difficult.
With our expert guide, separate fact from fiction and find the top-notch reishi mushroom supplements that will elevate your well-being.
Say goodbye to subpar products and hello to optimal health with our curated list of the finest functional mushrooms in 2024!
