Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)

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Reishi Mushroom

灡芝 (Líng Zhī) · Ganoderma lucidum

Known as the 'mushroom of immortality' in Chinese medicine. Extensively studied for immune modulation, stress relief, and sleep support.

Evidence Score
7.5/10
Good Evidence
Safety
Safe for most adults

Good For

Key Benefits

Modulates immune function

Clinical trials show increased NK cell activity and lymphocyte counts

Supports sleep quality

Traditional use confirmed by trials showing improved sleep scores with 4+ weeks use

May reduce anxiety and depression

Randomized trials show improvement in well-being scores and fatigue reduction

Supports liver health

Animal and preliminary human data shows hepatoprotective effects

How to Take

Typical dose: 1000-3000mg dried mushroom powder OR 500-1500mg extract daily
Forms: capsule, powder, tea/decoction, tincture (dual extract)
Timing: Take in the evening for sleep support. Dual-extracted (water + alcohol) tinctures capture both polysaccharides and triterpenes
Red reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is preferred over other Ganoderma species

Safety & Interactions

Possible Side Effects

  • Dry mouth and throat
  • Digestive upset initially
  • Dizziness in rare cases
  • Nosebleeds (blood-thinning effect)

Do Not Use If

  • Active bleeding disorders
  • 2 weeks before surgery
  • Organ transplant recipients

Drug Interactions

  • Anticoagulants (warfarin, aspirin) β€” additive blood thinning
  • Immunosuppressants β€” may counteract
  • Antihypertensives β€” additive blood pressure lowering

Traditional Use

Called Ling Zhi (灡芝) meaning 'spirit plant' or 'mushroom of immortality.' Used in TCM for over 2,000 years to nourish the heart, calm the spirit, tonify qi, and promote longevity. Classified as sweet, neutral. Enters the heart, lung, liver, and kidney channels.

Modern Research

Over 3,000 studies. Key compounds: beta-glucan polysaccharides (immune modulation) and ganoderic acids/triterpenes (anti-inflammatory, liver-protective). Quality varies significantly between products β€” fruiting body preferred over mycelium on grain.

View all studies on PubMed for Ganoderma lucidum β†’

Where to Buy

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