Also known as: Ganoderma lucidum, Lingzhi
Reishi is a medicinal mushroom used for over 2.000 years in traditional Chinese medicine. It is valued primarily for its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties, earning it the title 'mushroom of immortality.'
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a polypore fungus that grows on hardwood trees in warm, humid climates across Asia, Europe, and North America. Its fruiting body contains over 400 bioactive compounds, including triterpenoids (ganoderic acids), polysaccharides (beta-glucans), and peptidoglycans, which collectively underpin its pharmacological effects. Beta-glucans activate innate immune cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells, while ganoderic acids exert anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects. Clinical research supports reishi's role in modulating immune function in oncology patients, improving sleep quality, and reducing fatigue. Although widely consumed as a dietary supplement in capsule, powder, or extract form, reishi is not a substitute for medical treatment. Quality can vary significantly among commercial products, and dual extraction (hot water and alcohol) is considered necessary to capture both water-soluble polysaccharides and alcohol-soluble triterpenoids.
Reishi beta-glucans activate macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells, enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses. Studies in cancer patients show increased lymphocyte activity and improved quality of life.
Reishi extract has been shown to reduce sleep latency and increase total sleep time in both animal models and human trials, likely mediated through GABAergic modulation and TNF-alpha signalling.
A randomised controlled trial in breast cancer survivors found that reishi supplementation significantly reduced fatigue and improved quality of life scores after 4 weeks.
Divided into 2 doses, with meals
Dual-extracted products (hot water + ethanol) are preferred for full-spectrum benefits. Allow 2–4 weeks for effects.
Single dose 1–2 hours before bedtime
Spore-based extracts may be particularly effective for calming effects.
Full-spectrum immune support
Adding to tea, coffee, or smoothies
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