Reishi

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a powerful mushroom that has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality," it promotes longevity and vitality and has a wide range of health benefits. It is a slow building medicine, meaning its best when used consistently and over a long period of time. There are many different types of Reishi, and although most have similar benefits and can sometimes be used interchangeably, for this discussion we're referring to G. lucidum.

What are the key benefits of Reishi mushroom?

Immune System Support and Anti-inflammatory Properties

Reishi mushroom contains bioactive compounds that can help enhance the immune system, making it more effective at fighting off viral and bacterial infections. If you tend to get every cold or illness that goes around, consider adding Reishi to your daily routine.  Reishi may be helpful to those with autoimmune diseases and has also been known to help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Studies have shown that Reishi mushroom has potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of various conditions. It also helps to protect the liver, enhancing the liver's ability to detoxify metabolic wastes.

Lung Support

Reishi may help aid in recovering lung health, improving their function, strengthening their structure and strengthening oxygen utilization, which in turn helps you to feel more energized and less winded and helps those with asthma and allergies (try our Allergy Relief blend). It's also useful over the long term in people prone to bronchitis, pneumonia, and shortness of breath, helping to make you less susceptible. 

Stress Benefits

As an adaptogen, it helps those who are overwhelmed and under a lot of stress. In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is said to nourish the shen (loosely translated as the spirit or consciousness). When our shen is disturbed, it can manifest as anxiety, moodiness, irritability, poor memory, general nervousness, and insomnia. Combined with other nervines and adaptogens, Reishi can help to restore shen and create balance in our bodies. It improves adrenocortical function and strengthens the parasympathetic nervous system creating a healthy balance in our bodies and minds and promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.   

Heart Benefits

Reishi helps the heart in a number of ways. It improves circulation, improves cardiovascular function and helps to lower cholesterol (such as LDL, VLDL, and triglycerides) with regular use. It also mildly helps to lower blood pressure. Studies have shown it is helpful in reducing cardiac pain, arrhythmia, and in preventing arteriosclerosis.

Sleep Benefits

Reishi mushroom may help improve sleep quality and duration, making it valuable for those struggling with insomnia or sleep issues (such as trouble falling asleep and trouble staying asleep) and helping one achieve a deeper and more restorative sleep (our Deep Sleep tincture may be right for you, read more here). 

How can Reishi mushroom be used?

Reishi may be tough to eat, but they can be added to many broths and soups to simmer and release their many health benefits. Just remember the raw fruiting body should always be cooked or extracted before consumption. If you're looking for more ways to incorporate this mushroom into your diet, read on for a few other ways to enjoy this mushroom.

Reishi can be combined with many other herbs to be enjoyed as a pleasant tasting tea, or the powdered extract can be added to herbal coffees and cocoas (try it in our Cocoa with Mushrooms blend). It can also be tinctured either by itself or with a combination of other herbs depending on what medicinal effect you're looking for. Once tinctured you can add it to water or juice and incorporate it into your daily routine. Reishi can be found as a capsule in many health food stores as well. 

Are there any potential side effects of Reishi mushroom?

While Reishi mushroom is generally considered safe for most people, if you're allergic to mushrooms, are on blood thinning medication, or having surgery soon, discontinue use or avoid altogether. It's always best to consult with a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine.

Overall, Reishi mushroom is a versatile and beneficial fungus that can support your overall health and well-being. Whether you choose to take it as a supplement, drink it as a tea, or use it in another form, incorporating Reishi mushroom into your routine may help you reap its many rewards.