Why are Reishi Mushrooms so Rare

Reishi mushrooms are extremely rare mushrooms that grow at the bases of deciduous trees. A few people do believe that reishi mushrooms can boost the immune system, fight cancer, and alleviate symptoms of a variety of other health problems.

Given the popularity of reishi mushrooms in Eastern medicine, there has been some research on the effect of this fungus. There is also increasing evidence that reishi mushrooms may be toxic and cause health problems.

When a superfood is dubbed "the king of mushrooms," you know it's got something special going on. While reishi mushrooms won't turn you into the next Meghan Markle, they are known for their cell-regeneration and immune-boosting properties, which could help you live a better life.

Today, the reishi mushroom is well-known for its potent health benefits and medicinal properties all over the world. As more research confirms its potent effect on overall health, it has joined the ranks of other medicinal mushrooms such as the chaga mushroom and the portobello mushroom, cementing its status as a true nutritional powerhouse.

What are reishi mushrooms?

Reishi mushrooms, scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum, are fan-shaped and orange to reddish brown in color. They are a rare find in nature and were typically reserved for royalty when they were first used in Asian cultures thousands of years ago. They're now grown commercially and sold in a variety of forms, including tea, tinctures, capsules, hot cocoa, beauty products, and energy bars.

So, what's the deal with them suddenly appearing everywhere?

"Reishi mushrooms are great for stimulating the immune system and liver function, producing an anti-inflammatory effect in the body,  and have even been shown to reduce tumor growth," Rachel Gargiulo - certified nutrition consultant at Nourishing Journey in Columbia, MD.

Because of its health-promoting properties, this fungus holds a special place in the traditional medical systems of China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries. It is used as an immunostimulant in patients with AIDS and cancer. Triterpenes and beta-glucan polysaccharides are both active constituents.

Ready to learn more? 

Let's look at why you should consider incorporating this incredible medicinal mushroom into your routine, as well as what reishi mushrooms health benefits can do for you..

Reishi Mushroom Benefits

Hundreds of different studies conducted in Japan, China, the United States, and the United Kingdom over the last several decades have demonstrated that reishi mushrooms are capable of providing protection against a variety of diseases or illnesses, including:

Inflammation

• Fatigue (Including Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)
• Frequent Infections (Urinary Tract, Bronchitis, Respiratory Infections, etc.)
• Liver Disease
• Food Allergies and Asthma
• Digestive Problems, Stomach Ulcers and Leaky Gut Syndrome
• Tumor Growth and Cancer
• Skin Disorders
• Autoimmune Disorders
• Diabetes
• Viruses, Including the Flu, HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis
• Heart Disease, Hypertension, High Blood Pressure and High Cholesterol
• Sleep Disorders and Insomnia
• Anxiety and Depression

Because they work as an “immune modulator,” reishi mushrooms can help restore hormonal balance, bring the body back to homeostasis and regulate activity of the immune system. This can help fight tumors and cancerous cells.

According to research, reishi mushrooms act as a normalizer, regulating various cellular functions and systems such as the endocrine (hormonal), immune, cardiovascular, central nervous, and digestive systems.

In fact, the majority of people report immediate improvements in their energy levels, mental focus, and mood, as well as a reduction in aches, pains, allergies, digestive issues, and infections.

What is the secret to their ability to heal? This is due to the numerous active ingredients found in the reishi mushroom.

Complex sugars known as beta-glucans, plant sterols that act as precursors to hormones in the body, polysaccharides that fight cancer cell development, and acidic substances known as triterpenes that turn off the body's response to allergies are among the ingredients.

Other ways that reishi mushrooms work to promote better health include:

• Contains Powerful Anti-Cancer Properties
• Improves Liver Function
• Promotes Heart Health
• Balances Hormone Levels
• Stabilizes Blood Sugar
• Fights Allergies and Asthma
• Protects Against Infections and Viruses

Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms for Skin

Reishi mushrooms, hailed as an Ayurvedic favorite, have proven to be more than just a culinary marvel. They've been used as powerful anti-agers and immune boosters both cosmetically and medicinally. For starters, they're high in beta-glucans, which means they can protect against environmental stressors and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Reishi mushrooms have numerous skin care benefits, ranging from reducing redness to preventing fine lines and wrinkles. They are deeply hydrating, antioxidant-rich adaptogens (substances that help the body adapt to stress and fatigue), and have immune-boosting properties that benefit both the inside and outside of the body. They can be found in a variety of skincare products, including serums, moisturizers, and masks.

When using it as a cream, it should be applied after the serum. When used as a serum, it should be applied immediately after cleansing and before applying face cream.

• Fights free radicals

• Deeply hydrates

• Fades acne scars

Those with sensitive skin will be relieved to learn that reishi mushrooms are suitable for all skin types (that is, unless you have sensitivity to reishi or any of its constituents). According to Graf, the immune-modulatory effects of reishi also help to reduce allergic reactions.

Comparisons

Is it safe to eat mushrooms? If you have any doubts, look at any of the powerful nutrients contained in any of these medicinal mushrooms, and you'll be a believer in the many nutritional benefits of mushrooms, whether we're talking about reishi, turkey tail, or more.

Here's a quick rundown of how the reishi mushroom compares to other popular medicinal mushroom varieties:

Reishi Mushroom

Balances hormone levels, improves heart and liver function, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and fights allergies, asthma and infection

Turkey Tail Mushroom

Feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, prevents infections and combats cancer cells

Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Protects brain function, relieves inflammation, preserves digestive health and fights free radical formation

Chaga Mushroom

Enhances endurance, reduces inflammation, stimulates immune function and contains antiviral properties

Shiitake Mushroom: supports immunity, fights cancer cells, promotes skin health and supplies a hearty dose of important B vitamins to maintain energy levels.

Furthermore, the ways in which different mushroom varieties are used and enjoyed differ significantly. For example, reishi, turkey tail, and chaga are commonly found as supplements, whereas lion's mane and shiitake are more palatable and can be substituted for other mushrooms in your favorite recipes.

How to Use

Because of their growing popularity, you can find reishi mushroom powder, capsule, or extract supplements in health food stores or online.

Because the proper reishi mushroom dose can vary depending on how concentrated the product is, it is critical to always read the directions carefully. When you take too much, the possibility of side effects increases.

Reishi mushrooms are said to be most effective when taken on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. Drinking water with reishi appears to aid absorption, as does combining it with vitamin C foods, which can ensure proper absorption of the active ingredients and antioxidants.

You can also try using them to brew a cup of reishi mushroom tea or Ganoderma coffee to start your morning on the right foot.

Recipes

There are numerous ways to incorporate reishi into your diet and reap the numerous benefits it has to offer. Here are a few simple and delicious recipes that include reishi tea to get you started:

Reishi Ginger Broth

Reishi Mushroom Soup with Carrots and Kale

Cacao Reishi Green Smoothie

Reishi Baby Bella Bolognese

Supplements and Dosage

The recommended reishi mushroom dosage varies depending on the type of supplement used. When eaten fresh, the dosage can range from 25 to 100 grams per day.

Side Effects

For thousands of years, reishi mushrooms have been used in a variety of patients, with very few side effects ever recorded. Reishi is classified as "Class 1: Herbs that can be consumed safely when used properly."

On rare occasions, mild digestive upset and skin rashes may occur; however, these side effects appear to resolve and are usually only a threat in sensitive people with compromised immune systems.

While most people find reishi mushrooms to be safe, effective, and well-tolerated, there are some situations in which you should consult with your doctor before using them on your own. According to research, taking the reishi mushroom by mouth in appropriate doses for up to a year appears to be safe for adults.

If you experience any of the following reishi mushroom side effects, stop using it right away and consult your doctor to ensure you aren't having an allergic reaction or experiencing liver toxicity:

dryness of the mouth

dry or itchy throat

itchiness in the nasal area

strong indigestion, heartburn or stomach upset

nosebleeds

bloody stool

skin rashes

If you have a bleeding disorder, have recently had surgery, take blood pressure medications, blood thinners, chemotherapy drugs, or immunosuppressant medications, or have trouble with blood clotting, avoid taking reishi mushrooms because they can raise blood pressure, interfere with blood clotting, and increase the risk of bleeding.

Risk and Considerations

People should look for additional ingredients or unknown substances when purchasing reishi mushrooms.

Before taking reishi mushrooms, there are several risks and considerations to keep in mind.

Reishi supplements may increase the effectiveness of anticoagulants or antiplatelets, increasing the risk of bleeding. As a result, people who are scheduled for surgery or who have bleeding disorders should avoid taking reishi mushrooms.

These supplements may also aid in the reduction of blood pressure. People who already have low blood pressure or are taking blood pressure medication should avoid consuming reishi mushrooms.

This is also true for those who are taking immunosuppressants, as reishi mushroom supplements may reduce their effectiveness.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also avoid eating these mushrooms.

Before taking reishi mushroom supplements, people should carefully consider the dangerous side effects listed above.

The correct dosage of reishi mushroom extract or powder varies greatly depending on the form of the mushroom used. It is critical to read the label of the specific product to determine the recommended dosage.

It's worth noting that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't keep track of supplements and natural remedies. They may contain additional ingredients or unknown substances, depending on where they are purchased.

Final Thoughts

Many people believe that reishi mushrooms have health benefits, most notably immune system enhancement and cancer treatment. It is important to note, however, that there is little evidence to back up any of the claims about their effectiveness.

People who have bleeding problems, are pregnant, or are taking certain medications should avoid using reishi mushrooms.

Supplements can interact with other medications, potentially causing negative side effects and worsening certain health conditions.

It is best to consult with a doctor about the safety and risks of reishi mushrooms before trying them.