Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma Lucidum)

Medical Uses

Reishi mushroom is used to support the immune system, usually for prevention and long-term use. It may lower blood sugar levels.

Historical Uses

Historically in China and Japan, the reishi mushroom has been called “the mushroom of immortality” because of its medicinal properties, which stimulate the immune system.

Growth

This fungus is a member of the Ganoderma family of fungi.

Parts used

• Fruiting body

• Mycelium

Major Chemical Compounds

• Polysaccharides

Reishi Mushroom: Clinical Uses

Reishi mushroom is used to support the immune system, usually for prevention and long-term use. It may lower blood glucose levels.

Mechanism of Action

Polysaccharides bind to specialized receptor sites on macrophages and natural killer cells, which send out chemical signals to fight off infection.

Reishi Mushroom: Dosage

Crude dried mushroom: 1.5 to 9 grams daily by mouth.

Reishi powder: 1 to 1.5 grams daily by mouth.

Reishi tincture: 1 mL daily by mouth (Natural Medicines, 2000).

Side Effects

Prolonged use of reishi mushroom (more than 3 months) has resulted in infrequent reports of dry mouth and stomach upset. It may prolong bleeding times.

Contraindications

• None are known.

Herb-Drug Interactions

Reishi mushroom is contraindicated for patients who take anticoagulants or anti-hypertensive medications.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

No restrictions are known.

Reishi Mushroom: Warnings

• Prolonged use of reishi mushroom (more than 3 months) has resulted in infrequent reports of dry mouth and stomach upset.

• Reishi mushroom may increase the risk of bleeding. Don’t use it if you take a blood thinner or a medication for high blood pressure.