Reishi Mushroom

The reishi mushroom has been used as a medicinal herb for thousands of years, especially in the far East, such as China and Japan.

They are not the only mushrooms used for their therapeutic and medicinal properties...other popular varieties include the maitake and shiitake mushrooms.

The reishi is also called "Ganoderma Lucidum"; in China, they refer to it as "Ling Zhi."

Medicinal and Therapeutic Uses of the Reishi

Reishi mushrooms have many uses, but some of the more prominent ones include:

- boosting immune function
- reducing stress, and inducing relaxation
- fighting fatigue and boosting energy and vitality levels. Used to fight chronic fatigue
- beneficial for bronchitis and asthma (due to anti-inflammatory properties it harbors)
- acting as an anti-coagulant (blood thinner)
- fighting allergies

Some of the more speculative health benefits of the reishi mushroom include:

- helping to lower cholesterol levels
- lowering blood pressure
- used to enhance skin health and beauty (chinese women use it for this purpose)

Although many more studies are needed, some experts say that reishi mushrooms have anti-cancer properties.

Specifically, the reishi contains polysaccharides that, in studies on mice, have been shown to fight cancer tumors, and enhance the immune system.

Other compounds present in the reishi mushroom include triterpenes, which may be responsible for its beneficial effects on lowering blood pressure.

Anti-histamines naturally present in the herb also may account for its alleged allergy alleviating effects.

Precautions on the Reishi

As always, pregnant or nursing women should refrain from using nutritional or herbal supplements without having consulted with their physician first.

People taking blood thinners (anti-coagulant medications) should avoid reishi as well unless speaking with their physician since the reishi mushroom has blood thinning effects as well.

Many people use reishi without exhibiting any unpleasant side effects. However, some people do report some adverse reactions. Here are some of the ones that have been reported:

- dry mouth
- nausea, upset stomach
- diarrhea
- skin rashes
- nosebleeds

If symptoms arise, reduce dosage or discontinue use.

Dosage

Dosage of reishi mushroom depends on what you're taking it for.

Here are some guidelines espoused by experts:

- For Heart Disease: take 1,500 mg of reishi daily
- For Bronchitis: Take 1,500 mg of reishi daily while the condition persists
- For immune system enhancement: Take 500 mg of reishi mushroom three times per day.
- If taken as a general health supplement, take 500 mg two times daily

Available forms of Reishi Mushrooms