Our increased interest in natural medicines lead to the discovery of different herbal products. Plant-based materials like seeds, leaves, stalks, flowers, and mushrooms are made into different products because of their potential benefits. Today, we’ll look at the golden reishi mushrooms. What are the benefits of reishi and why is it so popular right now?
What are golden reishi mushrooms?
Ganoderma lucidum or reishi mushrooms are large, dark mushrooms with a glossy exterior and a woody texture. The Latin word lucidus means “shiny” or “brilliant” and refers to the varnished appearance of the surface of the mushroom. It is native to countries like Japan, China, and North America. Reishi has been a staple natural supplement that is commonly used in East Asia.
The active ingredients in reishi include polysaccharides, dietary fibers, oligosaccharides, triterpenoids, peptides and proteins, alcohols and phenols, mineral elements (such as zinc, copper, iodine, selenium, and iron), vitamins, and amino acids.
What are the benefits?
It is currently used as a supplement and not a therapeutic drug. Nevertheless, its potential health benefits are the reason why it is popular and is worth looking into.
Immunity booster
According to studies, reishi may strengthen the immune system and help fight infections by improving lymphocyte function.
White blood cell improvement
It may activate or improve the function of a specific type of white blood cell called a natural cell killer. These white blood cells help fight infections, guard against tumors and potentially kill cancer cells in the body.
Immune control
Natural Killer Cells (NK) found in reishi are also responsible for limiting or exacerbating immune responses.
Can potentially fight fatigue
Reishi may reduce fatigue and increase well-being, especially for cancer survivors.
Control blood sugar
A study in 2012 showed that there are significant decreases in fasting serum glucose, insulin, and epididymal fat/BW ratio in patients who take reishi mushrooms.
How do you take it?
It is bitter which is why not many people like to eat it raw. But because of reishi’s potential health benefits, some companies use it as an active ingredient in their products. They make it into capsules, extracts, powders, and food supplements.
What are the possible risks and side effects?
Many side effects of reishi mushrooms remain unknown due to the limited body of research on humans.
However, some of its potential side effects are upset stomach, skin rashes, nausea, insomnia, itchiness, and liver damage.
As always, it is a must to consult your healthcare provider before trying any new herbal medicine, supplement, or medication.
Takeaway
Although there is minimal research to prove its efficacy, anecdotal evidence and knowing that eastern Asia has been utilizing it as part of their traditional medicine practices make the golden reishi mushroom one of the sought-after medicinal mushrooms in the market today.
