Organic Royal Red Reishi Mushroom Extract
Also known as: Reishi, Lingzhi, Ganopoly, Spirit plant, Organic Royal Red Reishi Mushroom Extract, Ganoderma lucidum
Overview
Ganoderma lucidum, commonly known as Reishi or Lingzhi, is a medicinal mushroom traditionally revered in East Asian medicine. It is widely used as a dietary supplement, particularly for its purported immunomodulatory and anticancer properties. The 'Royal Red' designation often refers to extracts derived from the fruiting bodies, typically standardized for bioactive compounds like polysaccharides and triterpenes. While extensive preclinical research exists, high-quality human clinical trials are still limited, and the quality of evidence varies. Reishi is primarily sought after for its potential to boost the immune system, serve as an adjunctive therapy in cancer treatment, and support overall health. It is available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and tinctures, with extracts being preferred for consistent dosing of active compounds.
Benefits
The primary evidence-based benefits of Ganoderma lucidum revolve around its immune-modulating and adjunctive anticancer effects. A meta-analysis indicated that when combined with chemotherapy or radiotherapy, G. lucidum improved immune markers (e.g., increased CD3, CD4, CD8 T-cell percentages by 2-4%) and showed a suggestive, though not statistically definitive, enhancement in tumor response rates (RR 1.50; 95% CI 0.90 to 2.51, p=0.02). Cancer patients undergoing conventional treatment also reported improved quality of life and immune function with G. lucidum supplementation. These benefits appear most pronounced in individuals undergoing cancer therapies. Secondary effects, such as potential hepatoprotective, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular benefits, have been reported in preclinical studies but lack robust clinical confirmation. While immune cell increases are modest, they are statistically significant, and the improvements in quality of life are clinically relevant. Benefits typically manifest within 3 to 6 months of consistent use.
How it works
The therapeutic effects of Ganoderma lucidum are primarily attributed to its bioactive compounds, particularly polysaccharides and triterpenoids. These compounds modulate immune function by enhancing the activity of T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, and by influencing cytokine production. Reishi may also alter gene expression in white blood cells, thereby affecting inflammatory pathways and enhancing the body's immune surveillance mechanisms. The specific mechanisms involve complex interactions with various immune cells and signaling pathways. Bioavailability can be variable, which is why standardized extracts, particularly those rich in polysaccharides, are commonly used to ensure a more consistent and effective dose of the active components.
Side effects
Ganoderma lucidum is generally considered safe, with most reported side effects being mild and transient. Common mild adverse effects include dizziness, gastrointestinal upset (such as stomach discomfort or diarrhea), and skin irritation or rash. In some cases, particularly among cancer patients, rare side effects like nausea and insomnia have been noted. There is a potential for interaction with certain medications, especially anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs, due to a possible enhancement of bleeding risk. Therefore, individuals on blood-thinning medications should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before use. Contraindications are not extensively defined, but caution is advised for pregnant or lactating individuals, and those with bleeding disorders or who are about to undergo surgery. Due to its immune-modulating effects, individuals with autoimmune diseases or those on immunosuppressant medications should also consult their doctor.
Dosage
Traditional dosing of Ganoderma lucidum extract ranges from 6 to 12 grams daily. Clinical trials have explored various dosages, with some studies using up to 9 grams per day (e.g., 9000 mg/day) without significant adverse effects. For standardized extracts, such as those containing specific percentages of polysaccharides (e.g., Ganopoly), doses up to 5.4 grams daily have been used safely for periods up to 12 weeks. The timing of dosage is generally flexible, with no specific recommendations for morning or evening intake; however, consistent daily intake is typically advised to achieve and maintain potential benefits. It is important to follow the specific dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer of the particular extract, as concentrations of active compounds can vary significantly between products. There are no clearly established upper limits, but adherence to clinically studied dosages is recommended.
FAQs
Is Reishi mushroom extract safe to use?
Yes, Reishi is generally considered safe with mild side effects like dizziness or stomach upset. Serious adverse events are rare, but caution is advised with certain medications.
Does Reishi mushroom cure cancer?
No, Reishi does not cure cancer. It may improve immune response and quality of life as an adjunctive therapy when combined with conventional cancer treatments, but it is not a standalone cure.
How long does it take to see benefits from Reishi?
Immune-modulating effects may become apparent within weeks to months of consistent use. Benefits related to tumor response or quality of life in cancer patients typically require longer-term supplementation, often several months.
Can Reishi be taken with other medications?
Caution is advised when taking Reishi with anticoagulants (blood thinners) due to a potential increased risk of bleeding. Consult your doctor if you are on any medications, especially immunosuppressants or blood thinners.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6353236/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigated the effects of Ganoderma lucidum in cancer patients. It found that G. lucidum, when combined with chemotherapy or radiotherapy, improved immune markers (e.g., CD3, CD4, CD8 T-cell percentages) and quality of life, and showed a suggestive improvement in tumor response rates. The study highlighted methodological weaknesses in some primary studies but concluded that G. lucidum could be a beneficial adjunct therapy.
- https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2619&context=facpub – This RCT investigated the safety and effects of high-dose Reishi (9 g/day) in 23 healthy subjects over 3-6 months. It found that the high dose was safe and led to decreased cholesterol and body fat, along with increased natural killer (NK) cell activity. The study's small sample size and focus on healthy individuals limit the generalizability of its findings to other populations.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/reishi-mushroom.html – This source provides a comprehensive overview of Reishi mushroom, summarizing preclinical and clinical evidence for its various effects, including immune, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. It also details the safety profile, potential side effects, and drug interactions, emphasizing the need for more high-quality clinical trials to confirm many of the reported benefits.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ptr.7215 – This comprehensive review summarizes the existing preclinical and clinical evidence for Ganoderma lucidum's therapeutic potential, particularly its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. It highlights the active compounds responsible for these effects and calls for more rigorous, high-quality clinical trials to validate the findings from preclinical studies and limited human trials.
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