Reishi Mushrooms are mood boosters that can help fight depression and other types of mental issues. In fact, Reishi Mushrooms are the newest “superfood” trend. The tag “superfood” is justified through the constituents of this mushroom. There are powerful compounds in it that can improve your health and make your life easier. Also, this food contains nutrients and antioxidants that help boost one’s immune system and fight off disease.
Depression, anxiety, and insomnia are all common ailments that these medicinal mushrooms have been used to treat in Chinese medicine for centuries. The Reishi mushroom is still popular today as a tonic herb that can treat many health concerns. To put in slightly complex terms, it is an elixir (a drug that can cure a lot of ailments).
This article will thus examine the importance of Reishi mushroom, its uses, health promoting effects, nutritional value as well as its dosage and usage.
What Is The Reishi Mushroom?
The Scientific Name, Regional Names, Variety, And Species Of Reishi Mushroom
Chinese medicine and other Asian countries use the Reishi mushroom as a medicinal fungus. Ganoderma lucidum is its scientific name. Ganoderma means shiny skin (Gan = ‘shiny”, Derm = “skin”) while lucidum means “brilliant”, and they both describe the varnished appearance of the reddish-brown caps of the mushroom.
The Reishi mushroom is known by many other names in different regions. The Chinese call the mushroom Ling Zhi, which describes Reishi as a “plant of spiritual potency.” The Vietnamese name Linh chi is often used with nấm — the Vietnamese word for “mushroom” — thus, it is called nấm linh chi. In Thailand, it is called het lin chue — combining native words het (mushroom) and loanword in chue (Chinese). It is known as Yeongji in Korea and by its common name “Reishi” in English and Japanese.
Other names for Reishi include Huang Ling Zhi (yellow fungus), tian ling Zhi (heavenly fungus), mannentake (known as Maitake in Japanese), and red mushroom/red Reishi. Japanese call reishi the “mushroom of immortality” due to its powerful medicinal properties.
Morphology And Varieties/species Of The Reishi Mushroom
The Reishi mushroom is a polypore. As bracket fungi, polypores resemble shelves sprouting from trees’ sides. Their common name is shelf fungi. The fruiting bodies of polypores are frequently spherical and occasionally exceedingly tough, leathery, or woody. Most of them are plate-like and emerge from tree trunks or decaying wood.
Reishi Mushroom Species
The Reishi mushroom belongs to the enormous Ganodermataceae family, which comprises more than 300 varieties of Ganoderma. The term “Reishi” mostly refers to several different Ganoderma species.
- Ganoderma lingzhi (red Reishi)
- Ganoderma lucidum
- Ganoderma sinense (black Reishi)
- Ganoderma tsugae (Hemlock varnish shelf) – Native to Northeastern America
- Ganoderma amboinense (deer antler)
- Ganoderma applanatum (artist’s conk)
The Ganoderma lucidum is by far the most prevalent. It is typically the first thing that comes to mind when discussing Reishi mushrooms. The primary research subject and dietary supplement is Ganoderma lucidum. A common interchangeable term is lingzhi (Red Reishi).
These Species Share Certain Traits In Common.
- A knobby, burgundy-red cap that often fades into orange and ultimately white at its expanding tip.
- A white, densely pored surface that bruises dark and spews medium brown spores lies beneath the cap.
One key characteristic that distinguishes Reishi mushrooms is the surface (cap), which appears polished or varnished and fades with age.
Reishi (Lingzhi) has a distinctive shelf-like look and is kidney or fan-shaped with a stem inserted peripherally. Being a polypore, it has no gills on the underside and instead exudes spores through tiny pores. When young, the fruiting bodies appear reddish and have a moist, lacquered appearance. Their flesh gets harder as they mature and age, and spores start to fall. Air currents carry these spores to the mushroom’s cap, dulling its glossy surface.
The physical characteristics of lingzhi can vary depending on their surroundings. High oxygen settings produce classic conch shapes in circular or kidney shapes. Elevated carbon dioxide levels result in stem elongation in lingzhi. Carbon dioxide levels may also influence the development of antlers without caps.
Light, temperature, and humidity are the key elements that affect fruit body development morphology of Reishi. However, water and air quality have a lesser impact on fruit body development.
Origin, History, And Traditional Use Of Reishi Mushroom
The powerful benefits of Reishi, commonly known as the “mushroom of immortality”, have been documented in ancient writings for more than 2,000 years. There is no precise explanation for where this amazing mushroom originated, but all available data points to Eastern Asia as the region where it was first discovered.
Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, also known as the “Classic of the Materia Medica” or “Shen-Herbal nong’s Classics”, was the first book to describe herbs and their medical significance. It was written during the Eastern Han period in China. It discusses the health benefits of many mushrooms and mentions the medicinal mushroom G. lucidum. According to Shen Nung, Reishi has a sweet flavor and a neutral nature; it reaches every meridian and tonifies Qi.
Use Of Reishi Mushroom
Traditional Asian medicine has long valued Reishi mushrooms for their unique health benefits and therapeutic powers, particularly in China and Japan. Many Chinese herbalists regard the Reishi mushroom as one of the most potent medicinal fungi on earth. Medicinal benefits of the fungus include tonifying effects, raising vital energy, strengthening cardiac function, enhancing immune function, increasing memory, and possessing anti-aging properties. According to some reports, Reishi mushrooms improve quality of life.
Among others, Lingzhi can treat dizziness, insomnia, palpitations, and shortness of breath, replenish Qi, calm the mind, relieve coughs, and treat asthma, according to the Chinese State Pharmacopoeia of 2000. With time, the usage of this therapeutic fungus expanded to other continents, particularly Europe, where it has long been a staple of herbal therapy.
Habitat And Cultivation Of Reishi Mushroom
Reishi mushrooms are one of the wide varieties of mushrooms that develop fleshy fruiting bodies on wood or other plant substrates. Being a saprotroph, it grows on tree trunks and fallen logs and aids in the breakdown of the wood into nutrients.
It is common to find them on or around conifers. However, they will also live in the dead logs of deciduous trees. The Reishi mushroom is rare, yet it can endure hard winters that can render other species dormant for months.
Nevertheless, the Ganoderma species remain a popular traditional medicine in Asia, and their use continues to expand globally. There have been attempts to cultivate the Reishi mushroom due to its uneven distribution in the wild and the rising demand for it as a medicinal herb.
Different Ganoderma species require various circumstances for growth and cultivation. Additionally, different varieties are preferred at different geographical locations. In Japan, red Reishi is valued, but black Reishi is more common in South China. Reishi (G. lucidum) cultivation has grown to be a significant source of mushrooms since the early 1970s. The subtropical parts of the Orient are home to numerous wild forms of G. lucidum, which flourish in hot, muggy environments.
What Are Reishi Spores?
Mushrooms, for example, produce spores, which are one-celled reproductive units. In polypores, spores are formed and discharged through thousands of pores on the underside of the fruiting body. Thousands of spores, microscopic seeds that the fungus uses to reproduce, are produced daily by Reishi mushrooms.
Reishi mushrooms generate spores as their fruiting body reaches maturity. In a short time, these spores cover the entire surface of the Reishi mushroom. The spores then quickly spread to cover the local microenvironment surrounding the mushroom within a few hours.
Reishi Spores Effects:
In terms of chemical composition, Reishi mushroom fruiting bodies differ from Reishi spores. Triterpenes are nutrients in Reishi mushrooms; Reishi spores have 300% more triterpenes than the fruiting body. Reishi spores are high in polysaccharides and include adenosine, amino acids, minerals, alkaloids, and polypeptides.
Reishi spores, on the other hand, are indigestible due to their tough chitin covering. To reap their benefits, they must have their cell wall broken to reveal the interior of the spore and ensure high bioavailability. It is also necessary to crack them at a low temperature in order to retain the highest concentration of triterpenes.
Cracked Reishi spores are much more expensive than other varieties of Reishi. Asian cultures have utilized these spores as cancer treatments and longevity aids. Cracked Reishi spores can be used to extract oil, which is highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine. This spore oil provides good health benefits and is even more immunologically potent than mushrooms. Compared to the Reishi fruiting body, Reishi spore oil is allegedly roughly 700 times stronger.
Summary:
- Chinese medicine and other Asian countries use the Reishi mushroom as a medicinal fungus. Ganoderma lucidum is its scientific name.
- Reishi mushrooms are uses for improving the immune function
- As a result of their resemblance to shelves sprouting from trees, polypores are also known as bracket fungi.
- Light, temperature, and humidity are the key elements that affect fruit body development morphology of Reishi.
- Many Chinese herbalists regard the Reishi mushroom as one of the most potent medicinal fungi on earth.
- Reishi mushrooms are one of the wide varieties of mushrooms that develop fleshy fruiting bodies on wood or other plant substrates.
- Reishi (G. lucidum) cultivation has grown to be a significant mushroom source since the early 1970s.
- A spore is a single-celled reproductive unit in fungi and mushrooms.
- In terms of chemical composition, Reishi mushroom fruiting bodies differ from Reishi spores.
- Asian cultures have used these spores to treat cancer and prolong life.
Medicinal Properties Of Reishi Mushrooms
The Reishi mushroom’s medicinal properties are so vast, and in this chapter, we’ll explore the many different ways you can use Reishi mushroom benefits to better your health and improve your quality of life.
Bioactive Constituents Of Reishi Mushroom
There are more than 200 active elements and compounds in Reishi, making it the most biologically active plant source. Fresh Reishi only has about 75% water content, which is lower than the 90% water content of many other mushrooms. Reishi mushroom benefits include being a powerful antioxidant with immune-stimulating properties, making it a long-life herb.
Polysaccharides, peptidoglycans, and triterpenes are three major physiologically active constituents in the Reishi mushroom. However, the proportion and quantity of each component in commercial and natural products might vary greatly. More bioactive substances include Alkaloids, proteins, fatty acids, amino acids, nucleosides, and steroids.
Triterpenes
In general, terpenes appear to have several beneficial properties.Various plants contain hundreds of triterpenes. There are over 100 triterpenes in reishi with known molecular structures and chemical compositions. Lingzhi is believed to have unique structures totaling more than 50.
Reishi contains triterpenes called ganoderic acids, which are similar to steroid hormones. A number of ganoderic acids contain biological properties, including hepatoprotective and anti-cancer effects, as well as inhibiting 5-alpha reductase.
Triterpenes are what give Reishi its adaptogenic (nontoxic), antiallergenic, and antihypertensive properties. Additionally, terpenes are anti-inflammatory, antitumorigenic, and hypolipidemic.
However, the Reishi mushroom’s triterpene composition varies depending on the region and stage of growth. It is possible to distinguish this therapeutic fungus from other taxonomically related species using its triterpene profile, which is also useful for classification. Triterpene concentrations can also be used to compare Ganoderma samples in terms of quality.
Antitumoral Effect
The antitumoral effects of reishi are not fully understood. Yet its polysaccharides and triterpenes are likely to cause it through a variety of mechanisms, including inhibiting angiogenesis and enhancing apoptosis (natural and spontaneous death of cancer cells) by inducing and enhancing angiogenesis.
There are likely additional mechanisms at play in the anti tumoral activity of Reishi, such as an effect on the proliferation of cells harboring androgen or estrogen receptors, which is particularly interesting in the context of breast cancer or prostate cancer.
Polysaccharides
Mycelium, spores, and the fruit body of the Reishi mushroom all contain significant amounts of polysaccharides and bioactive polyglycans. The fruiting body contains the least polysaccharides compared to mycelium, which is rich in them. Mycelium, spores, and fruiting bodies contain large amounts of glucose, although galactose primarily makes up the fruiting body.
The beta-D-glucans in Reishi mushrooms have been extensively studied and discovered to have anti-cancer properties. The antitumor efficacy varies depending on the part of the mushroom used for extraction. The anti-cancer action of the polysaccharide derived from the fruiting body is related to immunomodulation, whereas the antitumor effect of the mycelium is due to anti-angiogenesis. Beta-glucan can lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels, which lowers the risk of developing diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, it defends cells from peroxide and free radicals and lessens the consequences of oxidative stress.
Nutrient Composition Of Reishi
According to their nutritional profile, Reishi mushrooms have a high nutrient potential, which indicates their potential for many health benefits. The Reishi mushroom’s fruiting bodies are a fantastic source of protein, antioxidants, amino acids, macronutrients, vitamins (primarily vitamins B-complex and vitamin D), and nutritionally significant minerals (potassium, magnesium, and calcium).
There are a lot of water-soluble proteins in Reishi mushrooms. Lingzhi contains 18 different amino acids, including leucine, which has powerful hypoglycemic properties. Since Reishi is a complete source of the essential B-complex vitamins thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid, and niacin, vegetarians wishing to organically enhance the quantity of B vitamins and proteins in their diet may also find it to be a great meat substitute. Carbohydrates, indigestible fibers, phenols, enzymes, sterols, and long-chain fatty acids are additional Reishi components with specific biological properties.
Reishi Mushroom Benefits For Health
Reishi is one of the most famous Medicinal Mushrooms. Ganoderma lucidum has proven health benefits can help with blood disorder, prostate cancer, brain health and boost the immune system overall.
Heart health
Reishi mushroom is one of the few natural remedies that has been demonstrated to have positive effects on heart health and has even been shown to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels occasionally. Reishi mushroom extract can lower blood pressure, enhance general circulation, and even help prevent the clogging of your arteries with plaque by keeping your cholesterol under control.
In addition to lowering blood pressure, triterpenes found in Reishi mushrooms may improve cholesterol and blood coagulation. This may be because they assist in reducing vascular and arterial inflammation while reestablishing hormonal equilibrium. Hormonal problems, such as thyroid abnormalities or excessive stress, can occasionally result in high blood pressure and cholesterol. Reishi mushrooms aid in restoring hormone levels to their ideal state to enhance the cardiovascular system.
Immuno Modulation
Your white blood cells play a crucial role in your body’s immunological response, which is your body’s first line of protection against hazardous viruses and pathogens. The ability of Reishi mushrooms to maintain long-term health may be related to their impact on white blood cells, which travel through the bloodstream and fight off infections like viruses and bacteria to keep the body healthy and help the immune system.
Reishi mushrooms, according to studies, may improve the function and amount of white blood cells in your body. By changing the inflammatory pathways in white blood cells, the Reishi mushroom enhances the genes in these cells. Reishi promotes the growth of a white blood cell called a natural killer. The natural killer cells earned their name due to their ability to fight against infections and cancer in the body. In addition to treating cancer and infections, Reishi affects the immune system.
Allergy-Fighting Potential
Natural anti-inflammatory characteristics in Reishi mushrooms make them useful for treating asthma symptoms linked to allergies, histamine reactions, and other conditions. Due to the way that Reishi’s triterpenes influence the immune system, strengthen the digestive system, safeguard the gut lining, reduce inflammation, prevent the production of histamine, promote oxygen utilization, and enhance liver functions, they can reduce allergic reactions. This makes the Reishi mushroom an effective and safe natural asthma treatment.
Brain Health
It is believed that reishi has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This can lessen your risk of getting Alzheimer’s, a prevalent disorder that affects many older persons, and protect your brain from the harm caused by free radicals. Reishi mushrooms can also promote nerve growth and neuronal communication in the brain.
Reishi mushrooms’ capacity to assist the adrenal glands and maintain healthy cortisol release and circulation aid in reducing “cortisol resistance” and a persistently overactive and overworked nervous system.
Blood Pressure
A rat study suggests that Reishi mushrooms may help manage high blood pressure. However, if you are already taking blood pressure medication, talk to your doctor before taking Reishi mushrooms. The combination with Reishi could cause a severe drop in blood pressure due to a Reishi drug reaction.
Liver And Gastric Health Benefits
The liver is crucial for detoxification and aids in the body’s blood and nutrient circulation. Reishi mushroom helps your body eliminate toxins and bacteria more effectively, promoting liver health and function.
According to a 2013 study in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, the antioxidant qualities of Reishi and its ability to combat detrimental immune responses that impair liver function makes it of hepato-protective benefits on acute liver injury.
Gastrointestinal issues and abnormalities of the stomach are frequently treated with reishi. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Reishi may help you feel better if you have stomach issues by nourishing and soothing your stomach while also harmonizing your qi.
Diabetes Mellitus
Reishi contains an active ingredient called ganoderic acid, which promotes insulin production and causes lower blood glucose levels. By reducing blood glucose levels, people with diabetes can better control their disease and may even be able to stop taking some of their medications. The Reishi mushroom is also believed to increase insulin receptors on cell membranes, allowing cells in the body to utilize insulin more efficiently. It also increases blood flow to the pancreas, which leads to improved absorption of nutrients like glucose from the digestive tract into other tissues like liver cells.
A review of studies published in 2019 shows that the Reishi mushroom reduces insulin resistance. This review of studies focused on Ganoderma lucidum from the Ganoderma genus and looked at its anti-diabetic potential.
Viral And Bacterial Infections
There has been specific evidence that reishi mushrooms are effective against herpes, cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C, influenza, and HIV viruses. Reishi mushrooms contain natural antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal compounds. Triterpenes, for instance, not only relieve allergies but also provide defense against microbial, viral, and fungal infections.
Because Reishi mushrooms can enhance blood circulation and reduce inflammation, they can speed up the recovery from infections, lessen discomfort, and combat weariness more quickly. One of the many Reishi mushroom benefits.
Anti-Cancer Properties
The perks of Reishi include enhancing cancer patients’ quality of life and raising the body’s white blood cell activity, which aids in the battle against cancer — many people eat it for this reason. Interestingly, a study of more than 4,000 breast cancer survivors discovered that 59 percent took Reishi mushrooms.
A tumor mass needs a constant supply of nutrients delivered by new blood vessels created during the angiogenesis process. Consequently, blood and lymphatic channels allowed invasive cancer cells to travel to distant locations. Therefore, substances that prevent angiogenesis also prevent tumor formation and spread.
Reishi mushroom extract’s potential antiangiogenic properties successfully halt tumor growth in rats by limiting the growth of new blood vessels in tumors. This research demonstrates that Reishi can effectively battle malignant cells and stop their spread. Reishi also boosted patients’ survival times, which is astounding given that most patients were terminally ill, to begin with, according to research on lung cancer patients.
Research has found that Reishi may help treat cancer patients with colorectal cancer. Studies on prostate cancer have also been conducted because of Reishi’s impact on testosterone.
As complementary treatment for cancer, reishi should be used alongside conventional treatments. The reason is that several of the research on the relationship between Reishi mushrooms and cancer lacked quality. It is therefore necessary to do a lot more research.
Summary:
- Reishi contains the most biologically active components of any plant source.
- Reishi mushrooms have a high nutrient potential.
- The Reishi mushroom’s fruiting bodies are a fantastic source of protein, antioxidants, amino acids, macronutrients, vitamins, and carbohydrates.
- Reishi mushroom extract can lower blood pressure, enhance general circulation, and even help prevent plaque clogging of your arteries.
- The ability of Reishi mushrooms to maintain long-term health may be related to their impact on white blood cells.
- Reishi promotes the growth of a white blood cell called a natural killer cell.
- The immune system-boosting properties of Reishi make it a popular treatment for cancer patients as well as infections, asthma symptoms associated with allergies, histamine reactions, and other conditions.
- Reishi mushrooms can also promote nerve growth and neuronal communication in the brain.
- Reishi is commonly used to treat gastrointestinal problems and abnormalities of the stomach.
- Several studies have shown that reishi mushrooms are effective against herpes, cytomegalovirus (CMV), hepatitis C, influenza, and HIV.
- Cancer patients can benefit from reishi, but it should be used in conjunction with conventional cancer treatment rather than as a replacement.
Reishi Mushroom For Depression
It is widely known that Reishi mushrooms are capable of treating stress, anxiety, and depression. A recent study found it to have antidepressant properties. Let’s take a look!
What Is Depression?
Stress, anxiety, and sadness are common depression symptoms. Clinical depression is a condition that affects millions of people every year, and it can be temporary or chronic. Chronic depression can have the same debilitating effects on a person’s life as other chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.
No one has to suffer from depression if they don’t want to, but if it does hit you, the causes can vary. Depression can be caused by a variety of factors, which include low serotonin levels in the brain, according to some theories. In contrast, others believe that a deficiency in certain neurotransmitters makes someone more susceptible. Depression is also thought to result from an amino acid imbalance in the brain, but the brain is more complex than that.
Depression is tough to grapple with, and people often turn to pharmaceutical drugs to help them manage it. But, like most drugs, they come with side effects and trade-offs. Alternative medicines are starting to make a name for themselves as a viable way to deal with depression. One such alternative experiencing a surge in popularity is the Reishi mushroom.
Reishi And Depression
The antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of Reishi were researched in 2013 by a Japanese study from Japan’s Josai University. Reishi has been proven to be a potent antioxidant and cerebral protector in studies using a mycelium extract from Ganoderma lucidum. In order to find out if Reishi also combats depression, additional research was conducted.
The study assessed MAK’s anxiolytic and depressive effects on rats. During the experimental tests – force-swimming, open-field, elevated plus-maze, contextual fear conditioning, and head twitch – experimental animals were given MAK for sixty minutes before the tests.
Four Groups
Control for group 1: imipramine (An antidepressant)
Reishi dosage for Group 2 Low: 0.3g/kg
Reishi dosage for Group 3 High: 1.0g/kg
Group 4: A placebo
Results after 60 minutes revealed that administration with MAK (1 g/kg) had effects similar to those of an antidepressant on all tests. This study has shown Reishi to have antidepressant-like properties, most likely due to 5-HT2A receptor antagonistic activity. It may also have anxiolytic properties against memory-dependent or stress-induced anxiety.
Although this is a new field of study, further research is necessary, especially in human clinical trials. However, there is growing interest in adopting natural remedies rather than prescription medications to address common conditions like depression.
Reishi As An Adaptogen In Treating Depression
Adaptogens are substances that work with hormone signaling to control body functions. They are supposedly safe for health and can aid in restoring the body’s equilibrium by fending against stimuli and successfully regulating hormones. Reishi mushrooms can function as an adaptogen, which boosts the immune system and aids in the body’s recovery from stressors by nourishing and soothing the central nervous system.
Asia has a long history of using the Reishi mushroom for its nerve-strengthening properties and calming benefits. Reishi mushroom use induces a level of relaxation compared to a meditative state. As part of their meditation practices, monks and gurus have used Reishi for generations.
Reishi’s triterpenes and adaptogenic beta-D-glucans are responsible for this calming effect. Its adaptogenic properties are thought to relieve the signs of depression and exhaustion by lowering inflammation and restoring hormone balance. Having a balanced body and being able to handle stress independently can reduce your risk of depression.
Reishi For Mental Health (Ganoderma Lucidum)
There is evidence that neurotransmitter imbalance is a factor in depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and other mood disorders. Serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and norepinephrine are the four main neurotransmitters that control mood. Eating foods that strengthen the central nervous system and regulate neurotransmitters can be highly beneficial for anyone battling anxiety and sadness. One of those foods is the Reishi mushroom.
Research on depression also supports the idea that serotonin plays a role not only in treating depression but also insusceptibility to depression and suicide. Serotonin plays a role in regulating anxiety and mood, so it’s no surprise that a compound that increases serotonin levels could be helpful for people with depression.
Nervousness, worry, and sadness are frequently associated with neurasthenia. Physical and mental tiredness, as well as symptoms including lassitude, lethargy, headache, irritability, and depression, are its defining characteristics. There are many similarities between it and chronic fatigue syndrome. In modern society, energy reserves in the nervous system are depleting, which leads to this disorder.
Reishi supplements were used for 8 weeks by 132 neurasthenia patients in a study, and the results showed a significant decrease in fatigue and an improvement in general wellbeing. The study’s findings revealed that everyone observed the relaxing effects which is one of the well-known Reishi mushroom benefits. It’s advantages appear cumulative, strengthening nerves over time and genuinely altering one’s perspective on life.
Summary:
- Clinical depression is a condition that affects millions of people every year.
- Several studies have demonstrated that Reishi is a powerful antioxidant and cerebral protector based on analysis of a water-soluble extract from Ganoderma lucidum mycelia (MAK)
- Adaptogens are substances that work with hormone signaling to control body functions. Reishi mushrooms can function as an adaptogen.
- Asia has a long history of using the Reishi mushroom for its nerve-strengthening properties and calming benefits.
- Since ancient times, monks and gurus have known of the benefits of reishi mushrooms.
- Mood disorders as well as anxiety and depression are all linked to imbalanced neurotransmitters.
- An increase in serotonin levels could be helpful for people with depression.
Side Effects Of Reishi Mushroom
You want to start taking Reishi mushroom and enjoy the many Reishi mushroom benefits but you’re not sure if it’s safe, and you’re not sure what kind of side effects it might have.
Historically, reishi mushrooms have been used without adverse effects, but current studies have questioned their safety. Here are some side effects of Reishi mushroom.
Health Risks
Most people believe Reishi mushrooms to be harmless, and there has never been any indication of toxicity during its long history as a natural remedy. However, because there is little regulation of nutritional supplements, a product’s consistency and quality might vary from brand to brand.
Reishi mushrooms can interact with some medications, and certain people can experience complications.
May Increase Bleeding
Reishi mushrooms may make bleeding more likely for those who take blood thinners like warfarin. They may potentially cause more bleeding during surgery, too; therefore, doctors advise stopping them at least two weeks before the procedure.
Autoimmune Diseases
Although Reishi mushrooms can increase the immune system response, they may worsen symptoms in persons taking immunosuppressant drugs to treat illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Low Blood Sugar
If you use Reishi mushrooms combined with blood sugar medicine to treat diabetes, your blood sugar may drop too low since Reishi mushrooms may lower blood sugar.
Low Blood Pressure
Reishi mushrooms may lower blood pressure. It’s crucial to regularly check your blood pressure because taking Reishi mushrooms together with blood pressure-lowering medicines could cause it to drop too low.
Pregnancy
Reishi mushrooms may be safe for expectant mothers or nursing mothers, but the evidence is insufficient to support this conclusion. For safety reasons, you should not use Reishi at all.
Reishi Mushroom Allergies
These species may produce allergic responses, so it is not advisable to take it if you are allergic to mushrooms.
These species has other adverse effects, including nausea or dizziness, dry mouth, throat, and nasal passages. It has also been observed that insomnia, pseudoparasites/chronic diarrhea, and liver damage can occur.
Summary:
- In recent studies, reishi mushrooms have been questioned for their safety, but they are not known to cause any side effects.
- Reishi can interact with some medication.
- In order to be safe, pregnant women should stay away from Reishi entirely.
- They may produce allergic responses, so it is not advisable to take it if you are allergic to mushrooms.
- Insomnia, pseudo parasites/chronic diarrhea, and liver damage are other side effects of using Reishi.
How To Take Reishi Mushroom
Now you know that Reishi mushroom is a superfood, and there are many Reishi mushroom benefits. But how do you take it? Check out all the ins and outs of taking Reishi mushroom so that you can start seeing results as soon as possible!
Taste And Edibility Of Reishi Mushroom
Reishi edible mushrooms have an extremely bitter taste. Triterpenes, a type of chemical molecule, give Reishi its bitter flavor. Additionally, Reishi has a tough texture.
The good news is that you can enjoy the health advantages of Reishi mushrooms without cooking with raw mushrooms. However, if you want to include Reishi in your diet and consume it with food, it won’t be an issue because the food’s flavor will mask the Reishi’s bitterness.
You can take them in the following forms if you’d like an easier method:
- Reishi mushroom powder or Reishi spore powder
- Reishi mushroom capsules/pills
- Liquid Reishi mushroom extract
- Reishi spore oil
- Reishi tincture
It is most popular to take Reishi in the form of capsules or pills, but it can also be consumed by drinking tea made from ground Reishi mushrooms or making Reishi soup. If you choose to take it as a supplement (highly recommended), then make sure you do so with some water or juice because this will help mask the taste. Capsules or pills will take longer to absorb. Take Reishi in liquid, tea, or powdered whole Reishi mushroom for best absorption. This will make it enter the digestive system quickly (rather than having to break down a capsule).
Edibility Of Reishi Mushroom
The most popular way of consuming Reishi is in capsule or pill form. However, be aware that your body will take longer to digest pills or capsules. Make sure to take it with some water or juice if you take it as a supplement, as this will help mask the taste. You should definitely do this.
Other options include making Reishi soup or drinking tea from ground Reishi mushrooms. It is recommended that you consume reishi as a tea, powder, or drink to reap its full benefits. This will hasten its entry into the digestive system (rather than having to break down a capsule).
You can also add reishi powder to hot water, though it might make swallowing uncomfortable. You might try incorporating it into flavored tea or even hot chocolate. Try combining turmeric, hot water, and Reishi powder to create a herbal tonic.
Whatever method you select, always read the products’ labels, choose the proper dosage. And wait to see how your body responds before taking more.
Dosage
Because Reishi is a powerful medicinal mushroom, you should use caution when consuming it for the first time. It is advisable to begin with a tiny dose of Reishi powder. Less than 1/2 a teaspoon in volume for the powdered form. If necessary, increase the Reishi dosage to about 1 teaspoon. Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine will occasionally recommend higher amounts for therapeutic purposes.
Adults have used Reishi mushroom capsules most frequently in dosages of 1400–5400 mg orally daily, usually divided into two doses. There has been some use of reishi mushroom extracts in smaller quantities as well. Talk to a medical professional to learn what dosage could be ideal for a particular condition.
Lower your dose if you have any symptoms or negative effects after taking Reishi. Or schedule a visit with your doctor. Reishi also boosts energy and serves as a nearly immediate mood booster. Because of this, it is advisable to take it in the morning or afternoon rather than straight before bed.
How To Prepare Fresh Reishi?
You must first wash and slice any raw, entire Reishi mushrooms you have. You can make a Reishi tonic tea out of the water left after boiling the mushrooms for several hours and then straining them. By purchasing a Reishi powder or a Reishi concentrated extract, you can avoid the preparation process which can be time-consuming and untidy. Reishi mushroom powder will be delivered ready to dissolve in warm water.
Reishi can also be added to sauces, soups, salads, raw chocolate, cakes, and snack bars.
Always ensure you’re taking wholesome Reishi supplements from reliable manufacturers. Or you can talk to your doctor about including Reishi in your diet.
Summary:
- Reishi mushrooms have an extremely bitter taste.
- Different forms of reishi supplements are available.
- The best way to absorb reishi is to drink it, drink tea, or take it as a powder.
- Taking Reishi in the morning or afternoon rather than straight before bed is advisable.
- You can make a Reishi tonic tea out of the water left after boiling the mushrooms.
- You can use reishi in a wide variety of food preparations, including sauces, soups, salads, raw chocolates, cakes, and snack bars.
FAQ
Your Questions On Reishi Mushrooms Answered
How Long Does Dried Reishi Last?
If not dried soon, Reishi mushrooms quickly go bad, but dried Reishi has a two-year shelf life.
What Kind Of Tree Does Reishi Grow On?
Reishi species grow on dead or decaying hardwood trees, such as oak, elm, maple, and beech. However, some species favor conifers, especially hemlock.
Is Reishi Hard On The Liver?
There is little information available on the negative effects of Reishi mushrooms. Taken in powdered form, reishi mushrooms can cause liver toxicity. Even though they seem harmless and have few negative effects.
Does Reishi Mushroom Help With Hair Loss?
In Reishi mushrooms, you will find triterpenes and beta-glucans that promote hair growth and health. They can shield the body and hair from free radicals and environmental pollutants because they contain significant antioxidants. In addition to promoting hair growth, the Reishi mushroom may aid those experiencing hair loss. Reishi mushrooms may prevent the synthesis of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). A hormone that can significantly contribute to hair loss in both men and women.
Does Reishi Increase Testosterone?
Rather than increasing testosterone production, reishi mushrooms lower it. Reishi mushrooms contain triterpenoids that inhibit testosterone production.
Is Reishi Good For The Skin?
Reishi mushroom extract has a high concentration of polysaccharides, which are essential for skin repair and renewal and are responsible for the skin’s natural capacity to hydrate and retain water. Reishi mushroom extract has additional advantages for the skin, including decreasing swelling, wrinkles, and free radical damage while encouraging cell renewal.
Does Reishi Contain Hallucinogenic Properties?
In general, a medicinal mushroom is a fungus that benefits the body. Due to its hallucinogenic component, psilocybin mushrooms differ from adaptogenic mushrooms. Although they are both fungi, they are not the same sort of medicinal mushroom. Over time, adaptogens improve your immune system. Reishi is an adaptogenic mushroom that won’t make you feel high or induce any images.
Is Reishi Good For The Kidney?
Reishi aids in reducing proteinuria, lessens kidney permeability and prevents nephron outer membrane erosion.
How Long Does It Take For Reishi To Grow?
Reishi mushrooms grow at a different rate depending on how and where they are grown. Reishi mushroom cultivation on logs requires more time than in bags or containers. Try growing Reishi either indoors or outdoors using a block of enriched sawdust. After inoculating the substrate, it may take eight weeks before you can harvest new Reishi.
The longest Reishi mushrooms’ growth cycle stage is fruiting. Which can last up to six weeks from when pins first appear until they are fully mature. However, colonization proceeds rather quickly. The mycelium typically needs 7 to 14 days to colonize a sawdust block completely. However, colonization takes a lot longer if you decide to grow Reishi on logs.
Inoculating logs with sawdust spawn usually takes 9 to 12 months before your Reishi starts to bear fruit. Additionally, it can take 15 to 18 months to detect Reishi mushroom symptoms after inoculating logs with plug spawn.
Additionally, colonization takes longer which is dependent on the bigger your logs are in diameter. The time it takes to produce Reishi also depends on the temperature and the growing environment. Cooler temperatures might slow the process down.
How Do You Dry Reishi In The Oven?
You can dry reishi in your home oven. Slice your mushroom to about a quarter inch before you begin. Slice your Reishi and place the pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer. The quantity of Reishi you have will determine whether you need to dry them in batches. Cook the mushrooms for an hour at low heat, between 150 and 170 Fahrenheit (65°C and 75°C).
Pull the baking sheet out of the oven and flip the slices over. After turning the slices over, continue baking them for an additional hour. Then examine the pieces of mushroom. They ought to be so dry that when bent, they break. If your Reishi slices aren’t totally dry, put them back in the oven for half-hour increments until they are.
Can Reishi Mushrooms Cure Cancer?
It is possible to use reishi in cancer treatment as an immune system booster, however, it cannot cure cancer.
Ganoderic acid —an active compound in Reishi— may be useful in the treatment of liver illnesses in people, according to research that shows it has some protective benefits against liver damage caused by viruses and other toxic agents in mice.
Conclusion
After exploring the remarkable properties of this medicinal mushroom, you can see how it can be used to boost your body’s natural defenses. Given Reishi’s wide scope of health benefits, Reishi mushrooms are especially important for those looking for a more holistic treatment.
A normal diet often lacks the nutrients necessary for good health and disease prevention. Nutritional supplements, such as Reishi mushrooms can help fill this nutritional gap, resulting in improved physical and mental health. Although Reishi is not a run-of-the-mill source of “energy,” it’s clear that the inherent benefits are worth considering.
As evidence of its powerful healing properties increases, the Reishi mushroom will continue to be used for thousands of years.
