BIOReishi
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is called the 'mushroom of immortality' in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Bitter and woody, it is one of the best-known and most-studied medicinal mushrooms.
Ganoderma lucidum
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What reishi is
Reishi is a wood-decay mushroom growing on hardwood trees. In tradition it is dried and extracted, because its hard fruiting body cannot be eaten raw – the active compounds are released only by water and alcohol extraction.
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Traditional use
In Asian tradition reishi has been used for centuries for calm, balance and overall vitality. It is considered an adaptogen – a mushroom associated with coping with everyday strain.
- 03
What science studies
Reishi is among the most studied mushrooms. Research focuses mainly on its triterpenes and beta-glucans and on how the body recognises their structure. It is a food ingredient, not a medicine.
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Key compounds
Characteristic are triterpenes (ganoderic acids – the source of the bitterness) and 1,3/1,6 beta-glucans from the cell walls. It is their combination that makes reishi unique.
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Forms and how to choose
Reishi comes as a fruiting body powder, capsules, an alcohol tincture or blended into honey. Some of its active compounds are water soluble beta-glucans, while others are the fat and alcohol soluble triterpenes (the bitter ganoderic acids), so a dual extraction, using both water and alcohol, gives the fullest profile. With capsules and powders, check that you are getting a fruiting body extract rather than mycelium grown on grain, which tends to be diluted with starch. Honey with reishi is an easy daily option, while a tincture suits you when you want the bitter triterpenes and quick absorption.
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Dosage
As a rough guide, a fruiting body extract is often used at around 1 to 3 g a day, a tincture at a few millilitres depending on strength, and honey at about one teaspoon. Reishi is traditionally linked with calm and restful sleep, so many people take it later in the day or in the evening. When adjusting your amount, start low and watch how you respond. Extracts are more concentrated than raw powder, so follow the specific product label rather than spoon volume alone.
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What the research says
Research on reishi focuses mostly on beta-glucans and their relationship to immune regulation, and on triterpenes (ganoderic acids), which are studied in connection with oxidative stress and the liver. Another line looks at sleep quality and perceived fatigue. Much of the data, however, comes from laboratory and animal models, and good human trials are still limited. The findings are promising, but they do not mean a therapeutic effect, they rather point to directions that science continues to test.
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Safety and who should take care
Reishi is usually well tolerated, though some people notice digestive upset or a dry mouth. Caution makes sense if you take blood thinning medication (anticoagulants) or drugs that lower blood pressure, since reishi could in theory add to their effect. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, before planned surgery, and with autoimmune conditions or immunosuppressive therapy, speak with your doctor before use. With any chronic condition or regular medication, a conversation with a professional is always a sensible first step.
Where science sees potential
- calm and sleep quality
- immune system balance
- antioxidant cell protection
What studies have shown
Wachtel-Galor S. et al., 2011 (Herbal Medicine, CRC Press)
review of reishi's bioactive triterpenes and polysaccharides and research directions
Gao Y. et al., 2003, Immunol Invest
reishi polysaccharides and modulation of immune-cell activity
This concerns research on the mushroom and its compounds, not a claim that a food supplement treats disease. Many findings come from laboratory or smaller studies.
FAQ
- What are the effects of reishi?
- Reishi is traditionally used as an adaptogen to help cope with stress and support immune function. Research is exploring its effect on sleep quality and immunity, but human evidence is still limited.
- How is reishi dosed?
- A common intake is roughly 1 to 2 g of quality extract per day, depending on the concentration of the product. Follow the label and start with a lower dose.
- When is the best time to take reishi, morning or evening?
- Many people prefer the evening, as it is traditionally associated with calming and preparing for sleep. Try which time suits your body.
- Does reishi have side effects?
- It is usually well tolerated, though occasionally digestive discomfort, dry mouth or mild nausea may appear. Stop use if difficulties persist.
- Who should avoid reishi?
- Due to a lack of data it is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you take blood thinners or blood pressure medication, consult your doctor first.
- In what form do you offer reishi, honey or capsules?
- We offer reishi in a honey form as well as a pure extract. The honey makes it easier to take thanks to a milder taste, and the choice depends on your preference and routine.
- How long does it take for reishi to work?
- It is an adaptogen that acts gradually, and many people notice changes only after several weeks of regular use. Patience and consistency matter.
- What does reishi taste like?
- Reishi is naturally distinctly bitter, which is typical for it. In the honey form the bitterness is milder and more pleasant.