BENEFITS OF REISHI
✓ Regulates the immune system
✓ Calms the mind
✓ Reduces cholesterol and blood pressure
✓ Potentially anti-cancer
✓ Improves the body’s resistance
What is reishi?
Reishi, also known as Ganoderma, has the scientific name Ganoderma lucidum. This name is derived from the Latin lucidus , meaning ” shiny ” and refers to the varnished appearance of the mushroom. The reishi, a Japanese name for the mushroom, is sometimes called differently depending on the country. In China, for example, it is known as ” Lingzhi ” or ” Mannentake “.
Over the centuries, the medicinal properties of reishi have also earned it many nicknames. Throughout Asia, it is considered as the ” king of herbs “, the ” herb of immortality ” or the ” herb of the spirit “. Nicknames that speak volumes about its benefits and virtues…
The Ganoderma lucidum belongs to the family Ganodermataceae of which it is the principal representative. It is a lignicolous mushroom that grows exclusively on wood, dead tree trunks, or on roots that reach the surface of the soil. It particularly likes oaks, plum trees, and wild cherry trees from which it absorbs nutrients to feed and grow.
In the forest, the reishi is recognizable among all for its lacquered appearance, similar to varnished wood. Its cap can measure up to 20 cm in diameter and can take on different colors. In total, there are 6 kinds of Reishi found in nature: blue, red, yellow, white, black, and purple reishi.
In the wild, the reishi primarily grows in China, Korea, and Japan. It thrives in high-altitude forests but also enjoys warm and humid conditions. This is why it is also found in subtropical regions (Vietnam, Laos…) and some temperate regions of Europe.
Still today, it is an essential mushroom in traditional Chinese medicine. According to this review, it has been known for its properties for more than 2,000 years. Many ancient accounts trace its use, including the famous ” Bencao gangmu “, a collection of Chinese medicine written by Li Shizhen during the Ming dynasty.
The artificial cultivation of Ganoderma lucidum and scientific research, which intensified from the 1970s, allowed reishi to become known worldwide. Since then, this mushroom has enjoyed great fame in phytotherapy.
It is part of functional mushrooms, meaning that beyond its nutritional properties, it has therapeutic virtues. It is recommended to improve the body’s resistance, regulate the immune system, calm the mind, reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Some studies have also highlighted potential anti-cancer properties.
Nutritional composition
- 17 amino acids including 9 essential ones
- Vitamins: B5, B9, C, D
- Minerals and trace elements: potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, iron, zinc, copper, germanium
- Triterpenes: lanostanes, ganoderic acids, lucidic acids, ganolucidic acids…
- Steroids
- Phenols
- Flavonoids
- Sterols: ergosterol
- Nucleosides: adenosine, guanosine
- Polysaccharides: beta-glucans, glycoproteins, b-D-glucanic compounds, heteroglucans…
- Proteins
- Carbohydrates
- Fiber
- Lectins
- Fats
The benefits of reishi
🛡 Regulates the immune system
Reishi is a powerful regulator of the immune system. On one hand, it can stimulate immunity by increasing the production of T lymphocytes (white blood cells) and macrophages. It also induces the release of cytokines, chemical mediators that enable cell communication and are involved in regulating immune responses.
On the other hand, it modulates immunity in case of an excessive reaction from our defense system or autoimmune diseases. This action is due to the polysaccharides and triterpenes present in large quantities in the mushroom.
This study by Peking University (China), conducted on animals, demonstrates the immunomodulatory effect of Reishi.
This other study by Academia Sinica (Taiwan), conducted on mice, shows how Reishi activates immune system cytokines.
🙏 Calms the mind
Numerous studies have highlighted the benefits of reishi on mental health. Its composition makes it particularly interesting for relieving anxiety, mood disorders, restlessness, fatigue… In addition to its adaptogenic effect, it promotes nervous system relaxation by exerting an anxiolytic action.
The phenols and flavonoids it contains are the substances responsible for this property. The anti-anxiety activity of the mushroom has been shown to be comparable to that of Diazepam, a drug used for its anxiolytic and sedative properties.
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Reishi also contributes to mental well-being thanks to vitamin B5, nicknamed the “anti-stress vitamin”, as well as the zinc and magnesium it contains. Finally, the mushroom is an excellent source of essential amino acids. It is particularly rich in lysine which plays an important role in reducing fatigue and anxiety.
This study by Punjabi University (India), conducted on mice, shows the anti-anxiety potential of 4 species of Reishi.
❤️ Reduces cholesterol levels and blood pressure
Reishi directly affects the absorption of lipids including cholesterol. Indeed, the soluble fibers it contains capture cholesterol and eliminate it through stools. Beta-glucans, on their part, reduce LDL cholesterol or “bad cholesterol” while improving HDL cholesterol or “good cholesterol” levels.
It also has a hypotensive effect. This action is due to the triterpenes and particularly the ganoderic acids which lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels in the blood. In this way, the mushroom contributes to good cardiovascular health and prevents many diseases.
This study by the University of Malaya (Malaysia), conducted on rats, shows Reishi’s ability to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
This other study by the Russian Academy of Sciences, conducted on rats, evaluated the hypotensive effect of Reishi. The results obtained show that it is comparable to that of Losartan, a drug prescribed for high blood pressure.
🔬 Potentially anti-cancer
Reishi appears to show promising anti-cancer activity thanks to the triterpenes (ganoderic acids) and polysaccharides it contains. On one hand, it stimulates the production of macrophages and activates natural killer cells (NK lymphocytes), capable of killing tumor cells.
On the other hand, it limits the proliferation of diseased cells, induces apoptosis (programmed cell death), reduces metastases and angiogenesis. It thus inhibits the development and spread of cancer cells.
Numerous studies have already shown the potential of Reishi in cases of breast, prostate, uterine, colon, or bladder cancer.
This study by Hacettepe University (Turkey), conducted on cancer patients, shows the beneficial effects of Reishi polysaccharides.
This other study by Peking University (China), based on clinical studies, explains the anti-tumor effect and mechanism of action of Reishi.
🧘🏻♀️ Improves the body’s resilience
Like cordyceps (Ophiocordyceps sinensis), rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea), ginseng (Panax ginseng) or maca (Lepidium Meyenii), reishi possesses adaptogenic properties. Thus, it can improve the body’s resistance to stress. In traditional Chinese medicine, this mushroom is part of the “superior tonics” that regulate body functions while having a stimulating action.
Reishi can be consumed occasionally when facing significant stress or overcoming difficult situations: exams, sports competitions, airplane travel… But the mushroom is also interesting long-term, in cases of deeper issues (anxiety, distress, burnout, chronic stress…).
If it’s so effective in enhancing the body’s resistance, it’s because it acts on the adrenal glands. Located above the kidneys, they are responsible for producing hormones including cortisol, the stress hormone. By supporting their proper function, the mushroom helps with better stress management.
Further studies are still needed to evaluate the adaptogenic action of reishi.
How to consume reishi?
Reishi tablets
Reishi is most often offered in capsules or tablets containing powdered mushroom. It’s an easy-to-find format that has the advantage of being tasteless, as reishi has a very pronounced and bitter taste.
However, to fully benefit from its properties, the capsules should be sufficiently standardized in polysaccharides (minimum 30%). Preferably choose capsules that are certified organic, non-GMO, without additives, preservatives, and non-irradiated.
Reishi powder
The powder is obtained after harvesting, drying, and grinding the mushroom. It generally contains a good amount of active ingredients. Again, choose organic reishi.
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If you don’t mind the mushroom taste, you can easily mix the powder in water, milk, fruit juice, or a smoothie. Reishi powder can also be incorporated into soups, broths, and cocoa-based desserts. For example, you can make yourself a hot chocolate with reishi. There are now mixes available for breakfast or nighttime.
Reishi mother tincture
Reishi mother tincture is a format more difficult to find than capsules or powder. It is obtained through cold percolation of the mushrooms to extract all active ingredients.
Although it dilutes easily in water or fruit juice, it has the downside of containing a lot of alcohol. It is therefore not recommended for pregnant women, children, or people with certain health conditions.
Dried reishi
It is possible to find dried and sliced reishi in stores or online. Sold in bulk or in sachets, it’s an interesting format for making infusions or decoctions.
Simply simmer a few slices in boiling water for at least 1 hour. To soften the taste of reishi, you can add a few goji berries.
Reishi and Chinese medicinal mushrooms
Reishi is even more effective when combined with other functional mushrooms like shiitake or maitake. In Chinese medicine, it traditionally belongs to the famous “Imperial Trio” associating reishi with cordyceps and ginseng. A perfect combo to regain energy and vitality in case of fatigue.
To combat stress and soothe the mind, it is possible to consume rhodiola or ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in parallel.
Reishi dosage
⚖️ The recommended dosage varies between 1 and 10 g of reishi per day. It is advised to start with small doses and gradually increase according to your body’s reactions.
⏳ Reishi consumption should be done long-term to achieve results. However, to avoid the body getting too accustomed, it is important to take a one-week break every 3 weeks.
💊 In tablets: up to 5 per day for 250 mg capsules.
🥄In powder : up to 10 g per day.
🧪 In mother tincture : 20 drops, 3 times a day.
☕️ As an infusion : 1/2 cup, 2 times a day (morning and evening).
Contraindications and side effects
Reishi has certain contraindications and its consumption is not recommended for the following people:
- As a precautionary measure, young children, pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid consuming it.
- It may interact with the action of blood pressure medication, anticoagulants and is not advised before surgical intervention.
- Due to its blood pressure-lowering effect, its consumption is not recommended for people suffering from low blood pressure.
The intake of reishi can lead to the following side effects:
- Dry mouth.
- Itching.
- Nosebleeds.
- Abdominal disorders.
- Diarrhea.
If you experience side effects, stop consumption and consult a doctor.
History, culture, and market of reishi
In the wild, reishi is a rare mushroom that is not easily found. Those wishing to harvest it must go to high-altitude forests and plateaus. The perception of reishi in Chinese and Western culture is interesting: it was thought that this mushroom grew only in a very specific region of China, reserved for immortals and the blessed.
Reishi was so precious that its consumption was reserved for the Emperor, nobles, and privileged individuals. The mushroom then represented spiritual power, divinity, and immortality.
Today, Japan is the largest producer of reishi. It is grown there on straw substrate, sawdust, logs, or stumps. But in China, too, “medicinal” mushrooms hold a very important place in society.
Dossier prepared by Julia Perez and Charlotte Jean
Sources and scientific studies
Sissi Wachtel-Galor, John Yuen, John A. Buswell, and Iris F. F. Benzie. 2011. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects.
Wang X, Lin Z, 2019. Immunomodulating Effect of Ganoderma (Lingzhi) and Possible Mechanism.
Chen HS, Tsai YF, Lin S, Lin CC, Khoo KH, Lin CH, Wong CH, 2004. Studies on the immuno-modulating and anti-tumor activities of Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) polysaccharides.
Singh R, Dhingra GS, Shri R, 2016. Evaluation of Antianxiety Potential of Four Ganoderma (Agaricomycetes) Species from India in Mice.
Rahman MA, Abdullah N, Aminudin, 2018. Evaluation of the Antioxidative and Hypo-cholesterolemic Effects of Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum (Agaricomycetes), in Ameliorating Cardiovascular Disease.
Shevelev OB, Seryapina AA, Zavjalov EL, Gerlinskaya LA, Goryachkovskaya TN, Slynko NM, Kuibida LV, Peltek SE, Markel AL, Moshkin MP, 2018. Hypotensive and neurometabolic effects of intragastric Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) administration in hypertensive ISIAH rat strain.
Sohretoglu D, Huang S, 2018. Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharides as An Anti-cancer Agent.
Lin Z, Sun L, 2019. Antitumor Effect of Ganoderma (Lingzhi) Mediated by Immunological Mechanism and Its Clinical Application.
Dorothy McMeekin, 2007. The perception of Ganoderma lucidum in Chinese and Western culture.
