What are Reishi Mushrooms | Benefits & Uses

Reishi mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years for their supposed immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.¹

Known as the “mushroom of immortality”, these mushrooms are believed to hold many health benefits. So is it worth taking a daily supplement, and are there any downsides? Let’s take a closer look.

Jump to:

• What are reishi mushrooms?
• Are reishi mushrooms good for you?
• What are reishi mushrooms good for?
• Is reishi an adaptogen?
• How to take reishi mushrooms
• Reishi mushroom side effects
• What is the best reishi supplement?
• FAQs

What are reishi mushrooms?

Many mushrooms have special properties that set them apart from plant or animal foods.²

Reishi mushrooms specifically are believed to support health and longevity.³ They have a large, dark, glossy appearance. In fact, their scientific name, Ganoderma lucidum, comes from the Latin word lucidis and refers to this shiny exterior.³

Are reishi mushrooms good for you?

Reishi mushrooms contain many bioactive compounds — around 400 in total — including phenols and polysaccharides, which are thought to contribute to any immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects they may have.^1,3

But that’s not all. Reishi mushrooms also have tons of other nutritional benefits. They contain many essential amino acids, and are rich in minerals, fibre and polyunsaturated fats, making them a nutritious boost to any meal.²

What are reishi mushrooms good for?

Immune system

Reishi mushrooms are traditionally used to support the immune system. Some lab and animal studies suggest that reishi polysaccharides stimulate cytokines, molecules involved in immune response.⁴

In one study observing mice, reishi mushroom extract was linked to an increase in lymphocytes, “helper cells” key to immune function.⁵

However, to date human studies have shown mixed results. While one study noted improved antioxidant status after short-term supplementation, another found no significant change in antioxidant or immune markers.^6,7

For more ways to support immune health...

Mental wellbeing

Reishi mushrooms are believed to promote relaxation and reduce stress, with some animal studies indicating reduced anxiety and improved sleep quality.^8,9,10 this makes them popular in traditional and alternative medicine.

While promising, further research in human studies is needed to confirm these results.

For when you're feeling overwhelmed:

Is reishi an adaptogen?

Adaptogens are natural substances thought to help the body manage stress by balancing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates cortisol production.¹¹

Reishi mushrooms are recognised for their adaptogenic properties, believed to improve resilience to stress and promote wellbeing.³

They may also support energy levels and reduce fatigue, as shown in a study where reishi extract improved symptoms in individuals with a fatigue-related condition.¹²

How to take reishi mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms are available in various forms, including powders, capsules and liquid drops. Myprotein mushroom gummies contain 50mg of reishi extract and 30% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B5 to help reduce fatigue and improve cognitive function.

You can add powdered reishi to teas, smoothies or soups, or take it as a capsule. Tinctures can be added to water or taken directly.

You should always follow recommended dosage on product packaging. Please speak to a professional if you are considering starting reishi supplements, especially if you take other medication or have any underlying health conditions.

Reishi mushroom side effects

While generally safe for most people, reishi mushrooms may cause mild side effects in some, such as nausea and other kinds of stomach upset.¹³

As with any supplement, it’s best to speak to a healthcare professional before starting reishi mushrooms, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions, pregnant or breastfeeding.

What is the best reishi supplement?

Choosing the best reishi supplement depends on your health goals, so there are a few things to consider:

Understanding different parts of the reishi mushroom

One thing to consider is which part of the mushroom the supplement uses. For example, it’s believed that the mycelium (the root-like structure) and fruiting body each contain unique compounds, making them beneficial for different purposes.14 therefore selecting a supplement based on your specific health goals may be the most effective approach.

Opt for organic and third-party tested products

Choose reishi products that are organically grown and have undergone third-party testing for purity and potency. This testing ensures the supplement is free from contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides, making it safer for regular consumption.

Choose reputable brands with transparent practices

Finally, always buy from reputable brands with transparent sourcing and manufacturing practices. Look for brands that clearly state where and how their reishi is grown and provide detailed product information. This transparency is a good indicator of quality and helps you make an informed decision about what you’re putting into your body.

FAQs

What are mushroom supplements?

Mushroom supplements are made from various types of functional mushrooms, like reishi and lion’s mane.

Available in various forms including powders, capsules, tinctures and teas, they are used for their supposed health benefits, such as boosting immune function and reducing inflammation.

Unlike culinary mushrooms you can cook and eat, functional mushroom supplements are concentrated extracts with higher doses of active compounds.

Is reishi safe?

Reishi mushrooms are generally considered safe for most people when taken in appropriate amounts. However, they may cause mild side effects in some. Those with health conditions, on medication, pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before taking a supplement.

While reishi supplements are widely available in the UK, quality can vary, so it’s important to purchase only from trusted brands.

Take home message

Incorporating reishi mushrooms into your wellness routine could offer a natural boost to health, from strengthening immune function to helping manage stress. However, as with any supplement, quality is key.

Choose high-quality products from trusted suppliers, consider potential side effects, and consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. With the right approach, reishi mushrooms could be a valuable addition to your wellbeing journey.

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Our articles should be used for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to be taken as medical advice. If you're concerned, consult a health professional before taking dietary supplements or introducing any major changes to your diet.