The Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms, also known as Lingzhi mushroom (Ganoderma Lucidum), is an iconic medicinal fungus known for its healing abilities. Virtually unknown across Western cultures, reishi actually has thousands of years of history of use in the Asian countries, particularly for the promotion of health and longevity. In the past, the royals often consume reishi as they believed that it will grant them immortality. In reality, although it may not have such drastic effect, its anti-inflammatory properties are significant in the improvement of the immune system and overall body metabolism.

Proven Health Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms: 

1. Defends Against Tumour Growth and Cancer

Reishi mushrooms are a type of anti-inflammatory foods that contain antioxidants, beta-glucans, and amino acids, all of which are nutrients that protect against cancer. As well,  the chemical compound in reishi known as triterpenoid is responsible for inhibiting the development of tumors.

2. Detox and Improves the Liver

Reishi is an adaptogen that helps strengthen the digestive system, drives the improvement of the liver function and prevents liver diseases by letting toxins and wastes to be flushed out of the body. By improving the function of the liver, it is able to clean, process, store and circulate blood and nutrients in the body a lot more effectively.

3. Promote Heart Health and Balances Blood Pressure

Since reishi is capable of lowering inflammation within the body, it also means that it is able to reduce high blood pressure, improve blood circulation, reduce the symptoms of clogged arteries, shortness of breath and chest pain.

4. Balance Hormones

Reishi mushrooms strongly influence the body to maintain its homeostatic balance. That is to say, if there are too much of a particular hormone in the body, the compounds found in the reishi mushrooms are able to lower and stabilize them, and vice versa if there are too little of that hormones. For instance, by balancing the hormones, reishi may actually be able to reduce the occurrence of hormonal acne.

5. Improve energy levels

The toxins and heavy metals within which the body accumulates are responsible for sluggishness. By lowering their amount, reishi is able to improve energy levels, therefore enhancing concentration, memory, and even the quality of sleep.

6. Reduces Risk for Infections and Viruses

As mentioned previously, because reishi can lower inflammation and improve blood circulation in the body, viral infections that invade the body can be resolved more quickly, thus reducing fatigue and pain.

Reishi products are often available in various forms, including tea, powders, and dietary supplements. These products can be ordered online or purchased in Chinese medicine stores if you live near one. They are in many forms because it became known to many that there are lots of benefits of Reishi mushrooms. Personally, I take reishi in supplement form. I do so by dissembling the pill and pouring the powder out into the warm water so that my body would not have to break down the capsule and will easily absorb the reishi powder. Although I have not yet seen a significant improvement in my acne, I have to say that the Reishi had definitely improved my sleep as I had been able to sleep much quicker and deeper. I also feel that I am experiencing less fatigue throughout the day when I would normally be dozing off.

The powder form of reishi may be more effective than other forms of reishi as it can be digested by the body easier. Unlike other Western medications, reishi is an herbal fungus that is non-toxic and can be well-tolerated by many people. However, as with most things, it is better to consult your doctor before using them. If you experience side effects such as dryness of the mouth or throat, nosebleeds, blood stool and skin rashes, it is best to discontinue the use of reishi and consult your doctor.