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What are Reishi Mushrooms?

Reishi mushrooms, also known as Lingzhi mushrooms, are a type of fungus belonging to the species Ganoderma lucidum. They have been highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years and are believed to offer various health benefits. Reishi mushrooms have a unique appearance with a shiny, reddish-brown cap and a woody texture. They are commonly found growing on decaying logs and tree stumps.

The medicinal properties of Reishi mushrooms are attributed to their bioactive compounds, which include polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and peptidoglycans. These compounds are thought to have immunomodulating, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. As a result, Reishi mushrooms are used to support the immune system, promote longevity, and enhance overall well-being in traditional medicine practices.

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The History of Reishi Mushrooms

The history of Reishi mushrooms stretches back thousands of years and is deeply rooted in traditional Asian medicine and culture. Reishi mushrooms have been revered in China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries for their purported health benefits and as a symbol of longevity and vitality.
The use of Reishi mushrooms can be traced back to ancient China, where they were first mentioned in texts dating as far back as the Han dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE). These early texts, including the "Shennong Ben Cao Jing" (The Divine Farmer's Materia Medica), one of the oldest Chinese medical texts, describe the medicinal properties of various herbs and fungi, including Reishi.

Reishi mushrooms were initially rare and found mainly in the wild, making them highly prized and reserved for emperors and nobility. They were considered to be a potent elixir of life and were often associated with immortality and spiritual enlightenment. In traditional Chinese culture, Reishi mushrooms were known as "lingzhi," which means "spiritual potency" or "immortality fungus."

Today, Reishi mushrooms are consumed in various forms, including extracts, powders, capsules, and teas, and they are available in health food stores and as dietary supplements worldwide. While they remain an essential part of traditional Asian medicine, they have also gained popularity in Western countries as interest in natural remedies and herbal supplements continues to grow.

Health Benefits

Reishi Mushroom for the Immune System

Medicinal mushrooms, such as Reishi, have been labeled as natural biological response modifiers (BRMs) because they have the ability to alter immune responses in the body [1].

Reishi mushrooms possess beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and triterpenes known for their ability to boost the immune system by activating immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells. Additionally, these compounds promote the generation of cytokines, crucial for regulating immune responses. Research has showcased the immunomodulatory properties of Reishi mushrooms in diverse groups, encompassing both cancer patients and individuals in good health [2,3].

Macrophages, specialized cells in our bodies responsible for detecting and eliminating harmful bacteria and organisms, possess specific receptors for beta-glucans like dectin-1 and TLR-2 [4]. Among these receptors, dectin-1 is the most abundant and its activation triggers processes that lead to the elimination of invading pathogenic microorganisms [4]. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are another group of common immune system receptors that play a crucial role in initiating the innate immune response during the early stages of infection.

When beta-glucans bind to TLRs, they activate the innate immune system and prompt the production of important cytokines that help control the growth and activity of other immune cells [4]. This interaction between beta-glucans and immune cells is significant as it showcases Reishi's potential to target bacteria, viruses, and even cancer cells.

There is compelling evidence suggesting that Reishi mushrooms could hold potential in the treatment of COVID-19 [5]. A study indicated that the presence of beta-glucans in Reishi led to an increase in lymphocytes and enhanced PRRs signals [5]. Lymphocytes are vital white blood cells that aid in combating infections, while PRRs are pathogen recognition receptors crucial in initiating the innate immunity cascade, our first-line defense against invading pathogens. This study suggests that the heightened protective inflammatory responses triggered by Reishi may effectively guard against infections, including COVID-19 [5].

Neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors represent a prominent class of antiviral medications utilized in the treatment of influenza virus [6]. However, due to the growing prevalence of drug resistance, ongoing research focuses on developing new NA inhibitors. In this context, Reishi mushrooms have garnered significant attention due to their triterpenoid constituents. Notably, a study discovered that two types of ganoderic acid from Reishi demonstrated NA inhibitory activity against both H5N1 and H1N1 strains of influenza [6]. These findings suggest that the triterpenoid structure could serve as a promising framework for designing novel NA inhibitors, offering potential solutions to combat the escalating drug resistance to current medications [6].

Reishi Mushroom for Allergy Relief

Seasonal allergies or seasonal allergic rhinitis is characterized by rhinorrhea (runny nose), nasal congestion, nasal and ocular pruritus (itchiness), and paroxysmal sneezing. Often, those affected may attempt to find relief with oral or intranasal second-generation antihistamines or an intranasal corticosteroid...

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Reishi Mushroom May Be Used for Cold Sores

According to research findings, the extract from the fruiting body of Reishi mushrooms may play a significant role in preventing or treating cold sores. In a study, individuals experiencing recurrent outbreaks of herpes genitalis or cold sores (herpes labialis) were given a herbal mixture containing Reishi, after having received conventional treatments without improvement [9]...

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Reishi as a Neurotrophic

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) possesses several important qualities, one of which is its anti-inflammatory properties that hold significant implications for brain health. Chronic inflammation is thought to contribute to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and dementia [12]...

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Reishi Mushroom for Sleep

Reishi's historical significance lies in its ability to induce a calming effect, aiding individuals in achieving restful sleep [19]. Sleep is a crucial aspect of our well-being, and insufficient sleep has been linked to various health conditions [19]. Chronic sleep issues have been associated with cardiovascular disease, obesity, increased mortality rates, and even diabetes [19]...

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Reishi Mushroom as an Adjunct to ADHD Treatment

ADHD's hyperactivity component is characterized by behaviors like fidgeting, restlessness, excessive talking, and impatience [21]. Reishi mushrooms' tranquilizing effect and calming properties could potentially be beneficial for individuals struggling to maintain stillness [22]...

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Reishi Mushroom Benefits for Skin Health

Studies have revealed that the primary beneficial compounds found in Reishi mushrooms are polysaccharides and ganoderic acids, known for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties [28]...

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Hormone-Balancing Effects of Reishi

Reishi mushrooms possess potent hormone-balancing properties. Studies have shown that an extract derived from the fruiting body of Reishi exhibits estrogen-like activity [31]. This extract has demonstrated the ability to bind to human estrogen receptor alpha and beta, leading to their activation [31].

Reishi Mushroom for Fertility

Research has indicated that Reishi mushrooms may have a positive impact on both male and female fertility. Oxidative stress, caused by an excess of reactive oxygen species or a lack of antioxidants, has been linked to infertility, including sperm damage and male infertility [34]...

Hepatoprotective Effects of Reishi

Reishi mushroom has been extensively researched for its protective effects on the liver. Its hepatoprotective properties are mainly attributed to two bioactive compounds: polysaccharides and triterpenoids [38]...

Reishi May Improve Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Research has shown a connection between oxidative stress, high cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia), and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular risk factors. In the quest to address these factors, scientists examined the impact of Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) extracts...

The Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi for Pain and Arthritis

Several studies have revealed that Reishi exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects in arthritis [36,37]. This is attributed to Reishi's ability to significantly decrease the expression of COX-2 proteins and inhibit the production of nitric oxide [36]. COX-2 is an enzyme responsible for producing prostaglandins, which contribute to pain and swelling during inflammation. COX-2 inhibitors, a type of NSAID, are commonly used to alleviate pain in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, recent research suggests that Reishi may offer a similar pain relief mechanism through its anti-inflammatory properties.

In a separate study, the use of Reishi was compared between intraperitoneal injection and oral administration, both resulting in a comparable reduction in cartilage degradation and the overexpression of inflammatory mediators [37]. This finding underscores the potential of Reishi as a beneficial treatment option for managing arthritis symptoms.

mushroom options

Reishi Extract Mushroom Capsules

Eversio Wellness’ product CHILL NOW is an 15:1 extract of Reishi mushroom containing high percentages of beta-glucans and other bioactive constituents. The mushroom extract is made from 100% fruiting body only, ensuring there are no fillers or additives that may lessen the potency and therapeutic effect of the product. By taking 2 capsules per day, it is an easy addition for anyone looking to provide support for stress, immune function, and better sleep.

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MUSHROOM OPTIONS

Reishi Mushroom Extract Powder

Eversio Wellness offers one mushroom extract blend containing Reishi:

Oyster Mushrooms Extract Powder

1) BALANCE Blend

The BALANCE blend was created to help individuals unwind and support the balance of the body, mind, and soul, whether it be day or night! It is formulated with Lion’s Mane, Maitake, Shiitake, and Reishi mushrooms.

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SAFETY

Recommended Dosages of Reishi Mushrooms

For optimal consumption, Eversio Wellness advises individuals to limit their intake of dried Reishi fruiting body to a maximum of 15,000 mg per day. Their Reishi mushroom product, CHILL NOW, boasts an impressive composition of >51% beta-glucans, >3.2% triterpenes, and >1.3% ganoderic acids. Eversio Wellness recommends a daily consumption of 500 mg of their Reishi mushroom extract, which is equivalent to a crude quantity of 7500 mg.

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Where to Buy Quality Reishi Mushroom Supplement

In the vast market of medicinal mushrooms, it becomes imperative to prioritize awareness of the product's composition to ensure the utmost potency. At Eversio Wellness, their commitment lies in offering exclusively 100% fruiting body mushroom extracts, maintaining a transparent approach towards consumers by providing Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for each product. These COAs serve as a reassurance, scientifically confirming the claimed percentages of beneficial constituents through meticulous lab testing. Furthermore, the COAs also verify the absence of heavy metals and microbial contaminants, assuring customers of receiving the finest mushroom supplements available. There has never been a more opportune moment to explore the world of online mushroom purchases.

It is also important to ensure that your Reishi product has gone through a dual extraction process. Dual extraction combines the benefits of both hot water and alcohol extraction methods. In this approach, the mushroom material is subjected to sequential extraction using both water and alcohol solvents. This method aims to capture a wider spectrum of bioactive compounds present in mushrooms, including both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble components. Dual extraction is often preferred when targeting a comprehensive range of beneficial compounds and maximizing the potential health benefits of the mushroom extract.

Ways to Consume Reishi Mushrooms

Eversio Wellness offers 2 different Reishi mushroom products, one in capsule form and the other in powder form.

CHILL Now - Organic Reishi Mushroom 15:1 Dual Extract Capsules

92 Reviews

from $59.99 to $64.99

BALANCE Blend - Organic 4 Mushroom Extracts Blend

35 Reviews

from $59.99 to $64.99

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Health & Safety

Reishi Mushroom Health and Safety

Reishi mushrooms have a long history of use in traditional medicine and are generally considered safe for most people when consumed as part of a balanced diet or as a dietary supplement. The potential health benefits of Reishi mushrooms stem from their bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides and triterpenoids, which exhibit immune-modulating, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. As with any supplement or herbal remedy, it is essential to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. Additionally, some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as digestive discomfort or allergic reactions, although these are relatively rare. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with autoimmune diseases should exercise particular caution when considering the use of Reishi mushrooms. Overall, while Reishi mushrooms show promise in supporting health, responsible use and professional advice are recommended to ensure safety and optimize potential benefits.

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