Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) : Understanding the verified benefits of Reishi Mushrooms

What is Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) ?
Reishi mushrooms are among the most popular and useful species of fungi on the globe. These mushrooms, in particular, have been used for thousands of years in Asia, but they have only recently gained international recognition. These medicinal mushrooms, scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum, go by the moniker "reishi" in Japan and lingzhi mushrooms in China. Lingzhi mushrooms, as a group, constitute a species of complex fungal creatures, many of which are used around the world. These intriguing fungi are effective due to their distinct collection of chemical compounds and components, which include triterpenes, alkaloids, sterols, and several important polysaccharides.

Characteristics of Reishi

One of the key and most distinct characteristics of reishi mushrooms is their ability to create a diverse array of bioactive chemicals, which is one of their primary properties as well as their purpose as an herbal remedy. Triterpenoids, polysaccharides, peptidoglycans, and sterols are among these substances, and it is thought that these components enhance their pharmacological efficacy. These substances are responsible for the characteristically bitter flavor and powerful therapeutic qualities of reishi mushrooms.

The adaptogenic properties of reishi mushrooms are another noteworthy feature. Adaptogens are chemicals that support general equilibrium and wellbeing by assisting the body in adapting to a variety of stimuli. Reishi mushrooms have a reputation for boosting immunity, lowering inflammation, enhancing cognitive function, and improving sleep. Because of their adaptogenic qualities, reishi mushrooms are a great complement to any holistic health program.

Reishi: Benefits And Uses

One of the most well-liked and advantageous kinds of fungi on the globe are reishi mushrooms. In instance, these mushrooms have been used for thousands of years throughout Asia, but only recently have they gained international recognition. These health-promoting mushrooms are referred to as "reishi" in Japan and lingzhi mushrooms in China, but their scientific name is Ganoderma lucidum. When taken as a whole, lingzhi mushrooms actually belong to a species of intricate fungi, many of which are used all over the world. The unusual combination of chemical elements and components found in these intriguing fungi, such as triterpenes, alkaloids, sterols, and several important polysaccharides, makes them strong. [1]

Reishi Mushroom Applications

While there are health advantages associated with eating mushrooms, the most common way to use reishi mushrooms is to smash them and soak them in water. Because of their intense bitterness, these mushrooms are not pleasant to eat raw or in a strong liquid form. For this reason, and because effective herbal supplements have supplanted traditional herbal therapies, reishi mushroom supplements are primarily found in pill or capsule form. Nonetheless, this variety of mushroom is still prepared and given directly in many locations throughout the world. [2]

Close-up of reishi mushrooms on a wooden table covered with white fabric
Rare fungi called reishi grow at the bases of deciduous trees. Image Source: Shutterstock
Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms for Health

Let's examine the amazing health advantages of reishi mushrooms in more detail.

Anti-Aging Qualities

Reishi mushrooms, often known by monikers like "king of herbs" and "10,000-year old mushroom," are well known for their proliferative properties and have been used in herbal medicine for thousands of years. This notion led people to employ reishi mushrooms frequently in ancient times in their quest for immortality. But thanks to their remarkable polysaccharide content, reishi mushrooms have been positively associated in recent research with specific longevity expansions. By strengthening the immune system and halting some aberrant blood vessel creation, this is achieved. Additionally, several chemical compounds found in reishi mushrooms have antioxidant qualities that counteract free radicals, which can lead to chronic illnesses and early aging. [3]

Body Detoxification

Humans should strive to reduce the amount of toxins in their liver because it is a sensitive and vital organ. Studies have shown that reishi mushroom extracts can accelerate the regeneration of healthy liver cells and liberate stored free radicals, which can improve general health and well-being. [4]

Enhanced Mental Function

When it comes to cognitive issues, there is no known treatment, and neurological ailments are the most excruciating and mysterious secrets. Nonetheless, studies have demonstrated that reishi mushroom extracts can exhibit certain neuroprotective properties and increase cognitive activity. This is especially the case when it comes to stimulating nerve growth factor, which is essential for normal cognitive function. [5]

Properties that Reduce Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory properties of reishi mushroom extracts are among their most significant side effects. Because it increases blood flow to the brain, this is one of the reasons it can aid in the treatment of cognitive issues. Reishi extracts can be highly beneficial for those with gout or arthritis. Reishi mushrooms have also been used traditionally to treat injuries and relieve headaches. [6]

Optimal Breathing

Reishi mushroom extract can significantly lessen inflammation and get rid of allergic reactions in people with asthma, bronchitis, or other chronic respiratory diseases. Reishi mushrooms inhibit the body's mast cells from releasing histamine, which can cause allergic reactions ranging from minor skin irritation to potentially fatal anaphylaxis. [7]

Reduced Blood Pressure

One of the most prevalent and widespread issues in the world today is hypertension. It has been demonstrated that reishi mushrooms lower blood pressure, increase the effectiveness of blood flow to the heart, and decrease the quantity of oxygen the heart uses, resulting in increased oxygenation of the organ systems and the rest of the body. Additionally, some components of this mushroom extract help lower your body's level of LDL, or bad, cholesterol. [8]

Immune System Support

Beta-glucans, one of the most potent immune system stimulants known to science, are found in reishi mushrooms. You can lessen the symptoms of aging and defend yourself against a wide range of potential ailments by increasing the amount of beta-glucans in your body. According to some scientists, its high glucan content is what has historically associated it with longevity and immortality. [9]

Increased Vitality

Traditional medicine recommended reishi for energy enhancement in addition to its potential for eternal life. Although we do tend to lose energy as we get older, it would be great to add a spirit to our golden years with the aid of this fungus.

Adverse Reactions

Like everything that has so many positive aspects, it also always has a negative aspect. Certain negative effects have been linked to reishi mushroom use for a prolonged period of time (one to two months). Among these are a few: [10]

1. Headaches
2. Lightheadedness
3. Nosebleeds
4. Mouth dryness

Even though these adverse effects don't seem serious, you should see a doctor or qualified herbalist before using them in your diet. [11]

References

1. Hobbs, Christopher, PhD. Christopher Hobb’s Medicinal Mushrooms: The Essential Guide. Storey Publishing, LLC, 2021. https://christopherhobbs.com/hobbs-news-archive/christopher-hobbss-medicinal-mushrooms-the-essential-guide/.

2. Support, Extension Web. “Non Timber Forest Products for Small Woodland Owners: Reishi Mushroom Growing Guide.” OSU Extension Service, September 28, 2022. https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pub/em9364.

3. Hoffman Chiropractic Centre. “Reishi Mushrooms: King of Herbal Medicine | Hoffman Chiropractic Centre,” January 31, 2018. https://drdebrahoffman.com/nutrition/reishi-mushrooms-king-of-herbal-medicine/.

4. White Rabbit Institute of Healing. “Reishi.” Accessed June 5, 2023. https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/reishi/.

5. Morton, Katie, and Katie Morton. “Reishi Mushrooms Are Popping Up in More Wellness Products, but What Are the Benefits?” Well+Good, November 8, 2022. https://www.wellandgood.com/reishi-mushroom-benefits/.

6. Chen, Zhixian, Jianfeng Gan, Zhi Wei, Mo Zhang, Yan Du, Congjian Xu, and Hongbo Zhao. “The Emerging Role of PRMT6 in Cancer.” Frontiers in Oncology 12 (March 4, 2022). https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2022.841381.

7. Hedley, Eliza. “How Safe Is Herbal Medicine While Pregnant and Breastfeeding.” Teelixir, June 8, 2020. https://teelixir.com/blogs/news/safe-herbal-medicine-pregnant-breastfeeding#reishibabies.