Benefits of the Renowned Reishi Mushroom

Remarkable Reishi Mushroom Benefits

Commonly known as Reishi, which translates from Japanese as ‘Divine Mushroom,’ this glossy red mushroom has been a cornerstone of natural medicine for thousands of years. 

Celebrated for its numerous therapeutic properties, this extraordinary polypore is recognized worldwide for the cornucopia of health benefits it contains. As we briefly discuss a few of the medicinal attributes of Reishi, it’s easy to understand why it’s often referred to as the Mushroom of Immortality.

The popularity of Reishi mushroom probably began in days beyond recall, but written medical texts with accounts of its properties and uses first appeared about 2000 years ago in ancient China, where it was revered for its health benefits and was a symbol of longevity. They were often utilized by monks to enhance spiritual receptivity and calm the mind. Its historical significance is documented in foundational medical texts such as the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, which classifies Ganoderma as effective for maintaining and restoring bodily balance.

Lingzhi, Reishi, Varnished Conk, Hemlock Varnish Shelf, by whichever name we choose to call them, both Ganoderma tsugae and Ganoderma lucidum contain nearly 1000 different beneficial bioactive compounds, many of which are exclusively found in these amazing mushrooms.

Compounds which have shown to have significant pharmacological effects including: immune regulation, reducing arterial plaque, anti inflammatory, antitumor, chemo and radio protective, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-HIV, lowering of cholesterol, anti-fibrotic, liver cleansing, blood sugar regulation, regulation of angiogenesis, antioxidative, anti-aging, radical-scavenging, anti-ulcer and anti-cancer properties. 

Reishi mushroom has now become recognized as an alternative adjuvant in the treatment of leukemia, carcinoma, hepatitis and diabetes. A meta-analysis of recently completed studies found that adding Ganoderma extract to the anticancer regimen increased the response rate to chemotherapy or radiotherapy by 125% compared to without Reishi extract.

Ganoderma is also causing a stir with studies clearly showing that Reishi extract combined with Turkey Tail extract is an incredibly effective treatment of HPV, with total remission success in 88% of the test group, compared to only 5% of the control group.

The interest of the scientific research community is so keen that cutting edge genetic mapping of the Reishi mushroom has been performed, unlocking a new spectrum of possibilities. 

It seems that each new set of results about Reishi mushrooms unveils new applications and beneficial qualities we can harness to improve our lives. 

Reishi Mushroom is a Restorative Compound Powerhouse

Reishi mushroom is brimming with beneficial bioactive compounds, with 340 secondary metabolites, 380 various terpenoids, and over 200 complex polysaccharides identified so far. Beneficial compounds such as: 

Triterpenoids like Ganoderic acids A, B, C, and D, known for their potential anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic effects. Contained within Reishi mushrooms is a staggering concentration of different varieties of triterpenoid compounds.

Lucidenic acid A, a potential inhibitor of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) host cell entry.

Lucidenic acid B, shown to cause the death of cancer cells through apoptosis, also known as ‘programmed cell death,’ and to activate removal biomarkers in necrotic cells by the release of mitochondrial cytochrome. 

These constituents contribute to its vast array of health benefits like supporting immune function, aiding us in recovery from affliction, and enhancing our overall quality of life. 

 

With its extensive history in traditional medicine and a growing body of scientific research supporting its benefits, Reishi shines as a powerful ally for many aspects of our health and longevity.

Top 10 Scientifically Proven Health Benefits of Reishi Mushroom

1. Anti-Aging Properties

Reishi mushroom is packed with antioxidants that combat free radicals, helping to prevent age-related diseases. Its ability to improve and support cellular health make it a powerful champion for reducing the effects of aging.  

2. Boosting Immunity

A formidable defender against illness, Reishi mushroom augments the immune system by increasing white blood cells and promoting the activity of various types of immune cells. Research verifies the enhancements which Ganoderma conveys to our bodies' proficiency against bacteria and viruses. 

3. Brain Function

Studies indicate that Lingzhi mushrooms are capable of improving memory and even regenerating damaged neurons, finally offering potential defenses against grievous conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. New research is underway exploring the potential synergistic enhancements by combining mushrooms known to have neuroprotective and cognitive enhancing attributes, with profound possibilities.  

4. Anti-Cancer Properties

Reishi mushroom has demonstrated extraordinary anti-proliferative effects, inhibiting cancer cell growth. Ganoderma accomplishes this through multiple methods, including cytotoxicity, apoptosis induction, reactive oxygen species regulation, and anti-proliferative effects. When combined with other medicinal mushrooms such as Turkey Tail, an extraordinarily vigorous weapon against cancer is finally at hand. 

5. Improves Digestive Health

Reishi fosters a good microbiome in the digestive system and acts as a prebiotic, stimulating the growth of beneficial gut microbiota, which aids in nutrient absorption, relieving digestive issues, and promoting overall digestive wellness.

6. Weight Loss Support

Reishi mushroom aids in breaking down fat cells. By facilitating this breakdown, it helps the body utilize and eliminate excess stored lipid material, meaning Lingzhi mushrooms can be a practical resource for weight management. 

7. Cardiovascular Health

Reishi is effective at reducing cholesterol buildup in blood vessels, which can prevent hypertension and improve overall cardiovascular function. Its natural anticoagulant properties support healthy blood circulation.

8. Blood Sugar Regulation

Research has found that Reishi can lower blood glucose levels and suppress enzymes linked to diabetes, revealing entirely new possibilities for management and mitigation of this illness. 

9. Respiratory Relief

Reishi mushroom can alleviate respiratory issues, perhaps even acting as a preventative against lung cancers. Ganoderma mushrooms are impressive in their ability to improve oxygen utilization, beneficial to anyone affected by asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, COPD and similar conditions. 

10. Detoxification

Renowned for its detoxifying properties, Reishi helps eliminate harmful toxins from the body, reducing the risk of various diseases and improving our general health and wellness. 

The more we learn about them, the more we come to realize that the Reishi mushroom's reputation as the "Mushroom of Immortality" is a fitting title for this amazingly beneficial fungi.