What is a Reishi Mushroom?

The Reishi Mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi, is a fungus that grows in various hot and humid locations in Asia ¹. More commonly known as a mushroom. For many years, this mushroom has been a staple in Eastern medicine. ^1 2

Within the mushroom, there are several very important beneficial molecules, including triterpenoids, polysaccharides and peptidoglycans, that may be responsible for its useful  health effects ³

While the mushrooms themselves can be eaten fresh, it is also common to use powdered forms of the mushroom or extracts that contain these specific molecules. This is more practical and easier as wee, it ensures you are able to receive a measured dosage of the required ingredients.

Reishi Mushrooms are rare mushrooms that grow at the base of deciduous trees. Some people claim that Reishi Mushrooms can boost the immune system, fight cancer, and relieve symptoms of many other health conditions.

Alleviate stress and fatigue

Reishi Mushrooms are adaptogens, these are plants that help the body combat stress and to become more accustomed to stress. In one study of 132 patients suffering from neurasthenia (a condition characterized by physical and mental exhaustion), consumption of Reishi Mushrooms was shown to improve aches, pains, and feelings of irritability. ⁶

Ally against cancer

Numerous studies have been done on reishi mushrooms' effect on cancer cells. The results have been very interesting, One study in the Journal of Oncology found that tumors shrunk in three cancer patients that were taking Reishi Mushrooms ⁷. Researchers believe beta glucans in the mushrooms may prevent new blood vessel growth, which is relevant as cancer cells need a steady blood supply to keep growing. The triterpenes (AKA essential oils) in the mushrooms may also inhibit the development and metastasis of tumors ⁸. Additional research indicates that the mushrooms could alleviate chemotherapy-induced nausea and improve the efficacy of radiation therapy.⁹

To lower blood pressure

Compounds in Reishi Mushrooms may help keep high blood pressure at bay ¹⁰, according to a rat study carried out in 2014. It is important, if you’re currently taking blood pressure medication, consult with your doctor before taking reishi mushrooms—the combination could lower your BP to even lower levels which may be of concern.

Good for the brain

Research done on animals indicates that reishi mushrooms may be therapeutic for neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and may also be able to protect the brain from seizures ¹¹. Further research still needs to be done to confirm this, however it seems promising.

How to take Reishi Mushroom 

Natural supplements that contain these ingredients and more are appreciated by so many for best prostate health for men. While Reishi Mushrooms are generally safe for most people to try, they can cause some side effects—digestive and otherwise—so you should consult with your doctor before taking them. (This is especially important if you're pregnant, breast feeding, or have any type of blood disorder or high/low blood pressure.)

Reishi mushroom has most often been used by adults in doses up to 1400-5400 mg by mouth daily, usually in divided doses. Reishi mushroom extracts have also been used in lower doses and 900 mg is a common daily dose in capsule form. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition you may be interested in.

Side effects of Reishi Mushroom 

Possible side effects or allergic reactions ¹¹ to reishi include dry mouth, itchy mouth or throat, digestive distress, or bloody stools. If you experience any of these effects, it's best to steer clear of reishi mushrooms in the future. If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor before taking reishi—just to be safe. Lower doses in capsule form may not show these side effect, be sure to follow suggested doses.

Precautions when taking Reishi Mushroom 

When taken by mouth: Reishi mushroom extract is safe when used for up to one year. Powdered whole reishi mushroom is possibly safe when used for up to 16 weeks. Reishi mushroom can cause dizziness, dry mouth, itching, nausea, stomach upset, and rash. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if reishi mushroom is safe to use when pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Bleeding disorders: High doses of reishi mushroom might increase the risk of bleeding in some people with certain bleeding disorders.

Surgery: High doses of reishi mushroom might increase the risk of bleeding in some people if used before or during surgery. Stop using reishi mushroom at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Summary and offer where to buy reishi mushroom supplement

Many people believe that reishi mushrooms provide some great health benefits, primarily immune system related and for a natural cancer treatment. Reishi mushrooms may be harmful to people who have bleeding issues, are pregnant, or take certain medications. Be sure they are a good fit for your condition. Before trying reishi mushrooms, it is best to speak to a doctor about the use and dosage.

REFERENCES

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16428086
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23557365
4. https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/reishi-mushroom
5. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1041/beta-glucans
6. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1041/beta-glucans
7. http://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.2010.32.8054?view=long&pmid=21245436&
8. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1734114010702528
9. https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/reishi-mushroom
10. http://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/19/9/13473