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Reishi Mushroom And Mycelium Extract

Also known as: Reishi, Lingzhi, Ganopoly, Spirit plant, Reishi mushroom and mycelium extract, Ganoderma lucidum

Overview

Reishi mushroom and its mycelium extract are derived from the fruiting body and mycelium of *Ganoderma lucidum*, a fungus traditionally used in East Asian medicine. These extracts are rich in bioactive compounds, primarily polysaccharides and triterpenoids. They are primarily recognized for their immunomodulatory properties and as an adjunct in cancer therapy. Additional applications include potential benefits in cardiovascular health, lipid regulation, and fatigue management. Research on Reishi is moderately mature, with multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, though many studies have methodological limitations. The quality of evidence varies, with some meta-analyses highlighting positive effects but also noting the need for higher-quality trials.

Benefits

Reishi mushroom extracts offer several evidence-based benefits. A meta-analysis indicates that Reishi combined with chemotherapy/radiotherapy improves immune markers such as CD3, CD4, CD8 T-cell percentages by approximately 2-4% and may enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity. For cancer patients, adjunctive Reishi supplementation has been associated with a higher likelihood of positive tumor response (RR 1.50; 95% CI 0.90 to 2.51, p=0.02) compared to conventional treatment alone, though confidence intervals are wide. In animal models, a systematic review and meta-analysis showed significant reductions in total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and increases in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), suggesting lipid profile improvement. While human data for lipid effects are limited, these findings are robust in animals. Potential hepatoprotective and antiviral effects, as well as benefits in fatigue and depression management, have been suggested but require further clinical validation. Immune and tumor response benefits are typically observed over 4-12 weeks of supplementation.

How it works

The primary bioactive compounds in Reishi are polysaccharides, particularly β-glucans, and triterpenoids. β-glucans are believed to mimic bacterial cell wall components, thereby activating macrophages and complement pathways. This activation leads to the release of cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6, which modulate immune responses and may inhibit tumor growth. Reishi also influences T lymphocyte function and inflammatory gene expression in white blood cells. The triterpenoids contribute to its anti-inflammatory and potential anticancer effects. While absorption and bioavailability vary by preparation, polysaccharides are partially absorbed and are thought to exert systemic effects through immune cell modulation.

Side effects

Reishi mushroom is generally considered safe, with most reported adverse effects being mild. These can include dizziness, gastrointestinal upset (such as nausea), and skin irritation. In some cancer patients, rare side effects like insomnia have been noted. Clinical trials have not reported significant hematological or hepatic toxicity. However, caution is advised regarding potential interactions with certain medications. Reishi may enhance the effects of anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, NSAIDs, and thrombolytics, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. Contraindications are not well-defined, but due to limited data, Reishi should be used with caution during pregnancy and lactation, and in individuals with bleeding disorders. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if on medication or with pre-existing health conditions.

Dosage

The traditional Chinese Pharmacopoeia recommends a dosage of 6–12 grams per day of Reishi extract. In clinical trials, specific polysaccharide extracts like Ganopoly have been used at doses up to 5.4 grams per day for periods up to 12 weeks. The optimal dosage can vary significantly depending on the standardization of the extract, with the content of polysaccharides being a key factor. There are no strict timing requirements for Reishi supplementation, but taking it with meals may help improve gastrointestinal tolerance. It is important to follow product-specific dosing instructions and consult with a healthcare professional to determine an appropriate and safe dosage, especially given the variability in extract potency.

FAQs

Is Reishi safe for long-term use?

Generally, Reishi is considered safe for long-term use, but extensive long-term safety data are limited. Mild side effects are possible with prolonged use.

Can Reishi replace conventional cancer therapy?

No, Reishi is an adjunctive therapy intended to be used alongside standard cancer treatments, not as a substitute for them.

How soon do benefits appear?

Immune and quality-of-life improvements from Reishi supplementation may be observed within a few weeks of consistent use.

Are all Reishi supplements equal?

No, the concentration of bioactive compounds can vary significantly between Reishi supplements depending on the source, extraction methods, and standardization.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6353236/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs in cancer patients found that Reishi combined with chemo/radiotherapy improved tumor response (RR 1.50, p=0.02), increased CD3, CD4, CD8 T-cells, and enhanced quality of life. The study noted that primary studies had methodological weaknesses but the meta-analysis was robust despite limitations in primary data quality.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10729684/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies on Reishi's lipid-lowering effects found significant reductions in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL-C, alongside an increase in HDL-C. While robust in animal models, the study highlights the need for human trials to confirm these findings and their relevance to human health.
https://www.drugs.com/npp/reishi-mushroom.html – This clinical overview, based on various RCTs and reviews, indicates that Reishi polysaccharide extracts are generally safe, possess immunostimulatory and potential hepatoprotective properties, and are associated with mild side effects. It acknowledges the promising nature of clinical data but points out the limited number of large-scale RCTs.