Emily Johnson
Reishi mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi, is a fungus that grows in hot and humid locations in Asia. It has been used in traditional medicine in China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries to boost the immune system and promote health. Reishi mushroom extract is often taken by mouth in doses of 1400-5400 mg daily and has been linked to various health benefits, including improving cardiovascular health, enhancing energy and stamina, and reducing fatigue. However, there are also potential side effects, such as dizziness, dry mouth, itching, nausea, and an increased risk of bleeding. While it may offer potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness and safety.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Ganoderma lucidum |
| Other names | Lingzhi, Mannentake, Mushroom of Immortality, Spirit Plant |
| Appearance | Bitter-tasting fungus |
| Place in traditional medicine | Used in traditional medicine in China, Japan, Korea and other Asian countries |
| Benefits | May boost the immune system, reduce depression and fatigue, and improve quality of life for people with cancer |
| Side effects | Dry mouth, dizziness, itching, nausea, stomach upset, rash, allergic reaction |
| Risks | May increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people with a very low platelet count; may be unsafe for people with low blood pressure, diabetes, or immune system disorders |
| Dosage | Adults typically take 1400-5400 mg by mouth daily, in divided doses; lower doses may be used for reishi mushroom extracts |
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What You'll Learn
Reishi mushroom extract's potential health benefits
Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi, are a fungus that grows in hot and humid locations in Asia. They are commonly sold as food, but are also used for their potential health benefits and can be consumed in dried form or as an extract.
Reishi mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine in China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries for their health-promoting effects. They are believed to have various health benefits, including boosting the immune system, anti-cancer properties, improving fatigue, and more.
Boosting the Immune System
Reishi mushrooms are believed to boost the immune system by affecting the genes in white blood cells and altering inflammation pathways. Test-tube studies have shown that reishi can affect the genes in white blood cells, which are critical parts of the immune system. Some forms of reishi may also alter inflammation pathways in white blood cells, which could help manage the function of T lymphocyte cells (T cells). These white blood cells play an important role in fighting against infections and cancer.
Anti-Cancer Properties
Reishi mushrooms have been shown to have antitumor and anti-inflammatory activities in some studies. They may be able to decrease the size and number of tumors in certain types of cancer and improve the quality of life for people with cancer. A 2016 review indicated that the mushroom could benefit people with cancer when used alongside traditional treatment by increasing the activity of white blood cells.
Improving Heart Health
Some animal studies suggest that certain compounds found in reishi mushrooms may help decrease blood sugar and improve heart health. However, a 2016 study in humans found no effect of reishi supplementation on fasting blood sugar or hemoglobin A1c, a marker of long-term blood sugar management. More research is needed to understand the effects of reishi mushrooms on heart health and blood sugar management.
Reducing Fatigue
Reishi mushrooms are believed to help improve fatigue and reduce depression. A 2024 review found that the polysaccharides in reishi mushrooms may help decrease fatigue after exercising.
It is important to note that while reishi mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine and are believed to have various health benefits, some of these effects are not yet fully understood and supported by substantial evidence. More research is needed to confirm the potential benefits and safety of reishi mushroom extract. As with any supplement, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming reishi mushroom extract to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs and health status.
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Its use in traditional medicine
Reishi mushroom extract is a concentrated form of the Reishi mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, which has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Reishi mushrooms are believed to have numerous health benefits, and the extract is often used as a natural supplement to promote overall wellness.
Reishi mushroom extract has a long history of use in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. It has been used to treat various ailments and promote overall health and longevity. In traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi is believed to tonify the three treasures: jing, qi, and shen. Jing is essence and is believed to be the fundamental substance that governs our growth and development. Qi is our vital energy or life force, and shen refers to our spirit or consciousness. By nourishing these three aspects, Reishi is thought to promote balance and harmony within the body, leading to improved health and longevity.
Reishi mushroom extract has been used to boost the immune system, improve circulation, and promote heart health. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. In traditional medicine, Reishi was used to treat a variety of ailments, including asthma, liver disease, high blood pressure, and insomnia. It was also used to improve mental clarity and boost energy levels. The extract was often consumed as a tea or tonic and was sometimes applied topically to treat skin ailments or relieve muscle pain.
The active compounds in Reishi mushroom extract are thought to include triterpenoids and polysaccharides, which may be responsible for its potential health benefits. Triterpenoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, while polysaccharides can stimulate the immune system and may have antioxidant effects. Additionally, Reishi mushrooms contain complex sugars, called beta-glucans, which are believed to have immune-modulating properties and may help explain Reishi's reputed benefits for allergies, asthma, and immune system health.
Today, Reishi mushroom extract is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and tinctures, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Many people take Reishi supplements to boost their immune system, reduce stress and fatigue, and promote overall health and well-being. The extract is generally considered safe, but as with any supplement, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider before use, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications.
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Safety and side effects
Reishi mushrooms are generally considered safe for up to a year when taken orally as an extract. However, there are some safety concerns and side effects to be aware of.
Firstly, it is important to note that the effectiveness and safety of reishi mushrooms have not been extensively studied in humans. Most research has been conducted on animals or in labs, and human studies have produced mixed results. Therefore, it is recommended to speak to a doctor before taking reishi mushroom supplements to assess their safety and potential interactions with any medications or health conditions.
Reishi mushrooms may interact with certain medications, including blood pressure medicines, blood thinners, immunosuppressants, and chemotherapy drugs. They can also increase the risk of bleeding, especially in individuals with bleeding disorders or those scheduled for surgery. Additionally, reishi mushrooms may lower blood pressure, so people with low blood pressure or those taking blood pressure medication should exercise caution.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid consuming reishi mushrooms, as there is limited research on their safety in these populations.
Some common side effects associated with reishi mushroom consumption include dizziness, dry mouth, itching, nausea, stomach upset, and rash. Mild digestive issues and skin rashes may occur, typically resolving over time. However, incorrect dosing or consuming contaminated products can increase the risk of toxicity, especially in powdered or supplement forms. Therefore, it is essential to purchase supplements from reputable companies and follow the recommended dosage on the product label.
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Dosage recommendations
Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi, are a type of fungus that grows in hot and humid locations in Asia. They have been used in traditional medicine in China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries to boost the immune system and promote health.
Reishi mushroom extract is possibly safe when used for up to one year. Powdered whole reishi mushroom is possibly safe when used for up to 16 weeks. However, consuming the powder for longer than a month may be unsafe. It is recommended to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific condition.
The most common dosage of reishi mushroom extract for adults is 1400-5400 mg taken by mouth daily, usually in divided doses. However, lower doses of the extract have also been used. It is important to note that reishi mushroom can cause dizziness, dry mouth, itching, nausea, stomach upset, and rash. It may also increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people with low platelet counts or certain bleeding disorders.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using reishi mushroom, as there is limited research on its safety during these periods. Additionally, those with low blood pressure or taking therapy to raise blood pressure, as well as those with diabetes or immune system disorders, should exercise caution when considering reishi mushroom supplementation.
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Research and studies
Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma lucidum or Lingzhi, have been used in Eastern medicine for their purported health benefits. However, many of these benefits are based on anecdotal evidence, traditional use, and cultural beliefs.
While reishi mushrooms are best known for their potential immune-boosting and anti-cancer properties, the scientific research on these fungi is still evolving. Most studies on reishi mushrooms have been conducted on animals or in laboratory settings, with limited human studies available.
Test-tube studies have shown that reishi mushrooms can influence the genes in white blood cells, which play a critical role in immunity and fighting infections and cancer. Some forms of reishi may also alter inflammation pathways in these cells. For example, research suggests that reishi mushrooms may help manage the function of T lymphocyte cells (T cells).
Additionally, studies have examined the potential benefits of reishi mushrooms in cancer treatment. A 2016 review indicated that reishi mushrooms could benefit people with cancer when used alongside traditional treatments. The review found that reishi increased the activity of white blood cells and improved the quality of life for cancer patients.
Several studies have also reported improvements in symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, poor appetite, and depression in cancer patients using reishi mushrooms. However, it is important to note that while the majority of cancer patients in these studies reported symptom improvements, some adverse effects were also noted.
Reishi mushrooms have also been investigated for their potential in managing blood sugar and triglyceride levels, with some studies suggesting they may have a positive impact in these areas.
In terms of safety, research from 2004 found that taking reishi mushroom extract for four weeks did not cause any harmful effects on the liver or kidneys in healthy adults. However, other case studies have reported significant liver problems in individuals taking reishi, although it is challenging to attribute these solely to the mushroom due to other potential factors.
While reishi mushrooms have been a part of Eastern medicine for centuries, modern scientific research is still working to fully understand their potential benefits and risks. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before taking reishi mushroom supplements to ensure safe and effective use.
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Frequently asked questions
Reishi mushroom extract is a substance derived from the reishi mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum or lingzhi. It is a popular fungus used in traditional Eastern medicine and is believed to have various health benefits.
Reishi mushroom extract is believed to have a wide range of potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving cardiovascular health. Some research also suggests that it may have antitumor properties and could be beneficial for managing certain types of cancer.
Reishi mushroom extract is typically taken orally and can be found in various forms, such as liquid extracts, powders, or supplements. It is often taken in doses of 1400-5400 mg daily, usually divided into smaller doses.
Yes, while reishi mushroom extract is generally considered safe for most adults, it may cause side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, itching, nausea, stomach upset, and rash. It may also increase the risk of bleeding, especially in people with low platelet counts or those taking certain medications like anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. It is recommended to speak with a healthcare professional before taking reishi mushroom extract to ensure it is safe for your individual health needs.
Reishi mushroom extract can be purchased from various online and offline retailers, including specialty health stores, herbalists, and some pharmacies. It is important to purchase reishi mushroom extract from a reputable source to ensure its quality and safety.
