Plant MedicineReishi

Reishi

Ganoderma lucidum

Family: Ganodermataceae

Also known as: Lingzhi, Mushroom of immortality, Varnished conk, Spirit plant

At a glance

Best for: Immune modulation, Stress, Fatigue, Sleep quality, Liver support
Parts used: Fruiting body, Mycelium
Common forms: Capsule, Extract, Tea, Powder, Tincture
Evidence level: Promising
Cautions: Avoid if on blood thinners; Stop 2 weeks before surgery; Long-term safety not well established
Immune
Nervous
Cardiovascular
Capsule
Extract
Tea
Powder
Tincture
East Asia
Japan
China

What it is

Reishi is a wood-decaying fungus with a distinctive red-brown glossy cap. Its active compounds include beta-glucans (polysaccharides with immune-modulating effects), triterpenes (ganoderic acids with anti-inflammatory and liver-protective effects), and various lectins.

Traditional use

Listed in the first Chinese materia medica ('Shennong Bencao Jing', ~200 CE) as the highest grade herb for promoting longevity. Used in Taoist tradition for spiritual cultivation and in Chinese imperial medicine exclusively for royalty. Widely used in Japanese Kampo medicine.

What modern research suggests (Promising)

Multiple RCTs and meta-analyses demonstrate immune modulation (stimulation of NK cells and T-lymphocytes). A Cochrane review on cancer patients found reishi may improve response to chemotherapy and quality of life. Smaller studies show fatigue reduction, improved sleep quality, and liver-protective effects. Anti-tumour and antiviral effects confirmed in vitro.

How people use it

As a supplement: 1.5–9g/day of whole mushroom powder, or 1–3g/day of concentrated extract (1:10 or stronger). For immune support: take consistently for at least 3 months. Tea: reishi slices simmered in water for 30+ minutes (bitter taste). Best combined with lion's mane and other medicinal mushrooms for synergistic effects.

Safety + interactions

Generally well tolerated. Mild digestive upset in some people. Blood-thinning effect—stop 2 weeks before surgery. Long-term safety beyond 1 year not well established in clinical trials. Very high doses may cause liver toxicity (rare case reports with reishi powder preparations). Avoid in pregnancy.

May interact with: Blood thinners, Immunosuppressants, Chemotherapy, Diabetes medications

Name clarity note

Many Ganoderma species are sold as reishi. Ganoderma lucidum (Japanese/Chinese reishi) is the most studied. Ganoderma tsugae (hemlock reishi) and other species are sometimes substituted. Additionally, many products use mycelium grown on grain—which may contain more grain starch than actual mushroom compounds. Look for products specifying fruiting body and beta-glucan content.

Quality notes

Look for: (1) fruiting body extract (not just mycelium), (2) standardised for beta-glucan content (>15%), (3) hot water extraction (releases polysaccharides) plus alcohol extraction (releases triterpenoids). Dual-extract products are superior. Lab testing for heavy metals is important given reishi absorbs toxins from its growing substrate.

Community Insights

Premium members share their experiences and knowledge about this plant.

Disclaimer: This content is educational and not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbs or supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.

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