If you’re looking for a natural way to support your immune system or find a moment of calm after a busy day, reishi might be the answer. Revered for centuries as the "mushroom of immortality", this functional fungus is an ancient wellness staple that fits perfectly into a modern lifestyle.
Jump to:
- What are reishi mushrooms?
- Are reishi mushrooms good for you?
- What are reishi mushrooms good for?
- Is reishi an adaptogen?
- How to take reishi mushrooms
- Reishi mushroom side effects
- What is the best reishi supplement?
- FAQs
What are reishi mushrooms?
Many mushrooms have special properties that set them apart from typical plant or animal foods.1 Reishi mushrooms specifically are believed to support health and longevity, which is why they have been used for thousands of years.2
They have a large, dark, and glossy appearance that makes them quite easy to identify in the wild. In fact, their scientific name, Ganoderma lucidum, comes from the Latin word lucidis and refers to this distinct shiny exterior.2
Are reishi mushrooms good for you?
Reishi mushrooms contain many bioactive compounds — around 400 in total — including phenols and polysaccharides. These compounds are thought to contribute to the immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects they may have.2,3
But that is not all. Reishi mushrooms also have plenty of other nutritional benefits that make them a great addition to a balanced diet.
- They contain many essential amino acids.
- They are rich in minerals and fibre.
They provide polyunsaturated fats, making them a nutritious boost to any meal.1
What are reishi mushrooms good for?
Immune system
Reishi mushrooms are traditionally used to support the immune system. Some lab and animal studies suggest that reishi polysaccharides may stimulate cytokines, which are molecules involved in the immune response.4
In one study observing mice, reishi mushroom extract was linked to an increase in lymphocytes. These are "helper cells" that are key to proper immune function.5
However, human studies have shown mixed results so far. While one study noted improved antioxidant status after short-term supplementation, another found no significant change in antioxidant or immune markers.6,7
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Mental wellbeing
Reishi mushrooms are widely believed to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Some animal studies indicate that they may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.8,9,10
This potential for calm makes them popular in both traditional and alternative medicine. While these results are promising, further research in human studies is needed to confirm if these effects are consistent for everyone.
Is reishi an adaptogen?
Adaptogens are natural substances thought to help the body manage stress. They are believed to work by balancing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is the system that regulates our cortisol production.11
Reishi mushrooms are recognised for these adaptogenic properties. They are believed to improve resilience to stress and promote a general sense of wellbeing.2
They may also support energy levels and reduce fatigue. One study showed that reishi extract improved symptoms in individuals living with a fatigue-related condition.12
How to take reishi mushrooms
Reishi mushrooms are available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and liquid drops. You can add powdered reishi to teas, smoothies, or soups, or simply take it as a convenient capsule.
Tinctures can also be added to water or taken directly. You should always follow the recommended dosage on product packaging and speak to a professional if you are considering starting supplements, especially if you take other medication.
Myprotein Mushroom Gummies
Mushroom gummies have become a major trend because they offer a tasty and convenient alternative to traditional supplements. They are perfect for people who want the benefits of functional mushrooms without the earthy taste often found in powders or teas.
Myprotein Mushroom Gummies (Reishi) are specifically designed to support relaxation. Each mixed berry flavour gummy contains 50mg of reishi mushroom extract.
Beyond the mushroom extract, these gummies are fortified with vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid). This inclusion is important because vitamin B5 contributes to:
- The reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- Normal mental performance, helping you stay sharp even when you are winding down.
Reishi mushroom side effects
While generally safe for most people, reishi mushrooms may cause mild side effects in some individuals. These can include nausea or other kinds of minor stomach upset.13
As with any supplement, it is best to speak to a healthcare professional before starting reishi mushrooms. This is particularly important for those with pre-existing conditions, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What is the best reishi supplement?
Choosing the best reishi supplement depends on your health goals, so there are a few things to consider before you buy.
Understanding different parts of the mushroom
One thing to consider is which part of the mushroom the supplement uses. It is believed that the mycelium (the root-like structure) and the fruiting body each contain unique compounds.14 Choosing a supplement that matches your specific health goals may be the most effective approach.
Opt for quality and testing
Choose reishi products that have undergone third-party testing for purity and potency. This testing ensures the supplement is free from contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides, making it safer for regular consumption. Look for reputable brands with transparent sourcing and manufacturing practices.
FAQs
What are mushroom supplements? Mushroom supplements are made from concentrated extracts of mushrooms like reishi, lion’s mane, and cordyceps. Unlike culinary mushrooms, these are used specifically for their bioactive compounds that may support immune function and stress management.
When is the best time to take reishi? Because reishi is often used to support relaxation and mental wellbeing, many people prefer taking it in the evening. This fits perfectly with a nighttime routine designed to help you unwind after a busy day.
Does reishi help with sleep? While more human research is needed, animal studies have suggested that reishi may help improve sleep quality and prolong sleep time. Many users find it helpful as part of a calming ritual before bed.8,9
Is reishi safe to take every day? For most healthy adults, reishi is considered safe for daily use when following the recommended dosage. However, you should always check with a doctor if you have a health condition, pregnant or breastfeeding.
Take home message
Incorporating reishi mushrooms into your wellness routine could offer a natural boost to your health, from supporting immune function to helping you manage daily stress. Whether you prefer a traditional tea or a modern gummy, quality is always the most important factor.
Choose high-quality products from trusted suppliers, and consult a healthcare provider before use if you have any underlying conditions. With the right approach, Reishi could be a valuable addition to your journey toward better wellbeing.
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- Feeney, M. J., Miller, A. M., & Roupas, P. (2014). Mushrooms—Biologically Distinct and Nutritionally Unique. Nutrition Today, 49(6), 301–307.
- Wachtel-Galor, S., Yuen, J., Buswell, J. A., et al. (2011). Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi): A Medicinal Mushroom. In: Benzie, I. F. F., Wachtel-Galor, S., editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition.
- Loyd, A. L., et al. (2018). Identifying the “Mushroom of Immortality”: Assessing the Ganoderma Species Composition in Commercial Reishi Products. Frontiers in Microbiology, 9.
- Zhu, X., & Lin, Z. (2006). Modulation of cytokines production by Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides. Carbohydrate Polymers, 63(2), 188–197.
- Zhao, R., Chen, Q., & He, Y. (2018). The effect of Ganoderma lucidum extract on immunological function. Scientific Reports, 8(1).
- Wachtel-Galor, S., Szeto, Y. T., Tomlinson, B., & Benzie, I. F. (2004). Ganoderma lucidum (‘Lingzhi’); acute and short-term biomarker response to supplementation. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 55(1), 75–83.
- Wachtel-Galor, S., Tomlinson, B., & Benzie, I. F. (2004). Ganoderma lucidum (“Lingzhi”), a Chinese medicinal mushroom: biomarker responses in a controlled human supplementation study. The British Journal of Nutrition, 91(2), 263–269.
- Cui, X.-Y., et al. (2012). Extract of Ganoderma lucidum prolongs sleep time in rats. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 139(3), 796–800.
- Qin, Y., et al. (2024). Ganoderma lucidum spore extract improves sleep disturbances in a rat model. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 15, 1390294.
- Yao, C., et al. (2021). Ganoderma lucidum promotes sleep through a gut microbiota-dependent and serotonin-involved pathway in mice. Scientific Reports, 11(1).
- Liao, L., et al. (2018). A preliminary review of studies on adaptogens: comparison of their bioactivity in TCM with that of ginseng-like herbs used worldwide. Chinese Medicine, 13(1).
- Tang, W., et al. (2005). A Randomized, Double-Blind and Placebo-Controlled Study of a Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharide Extract in Neurasthenia. Journal of Medicinal Food, 8(1), 53–58.
- Klupp, N. L., Kiat, H., Bensoussan, A., Steiner, G. Z., & Chang, D. H. (2016). A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial of Ganoderma lucidum for the treatment of cardiovascular risk factors of metabolic syndrome. Scientific Reports, 6(1).
- Berger, R. G., Bordewick, S., Krahe, N.-K., & Ersoy, F. (2022). Mycelium vs. Fruiting Bodies of Edible Fungi—A Comparison of Metabolites. Microorganisms, 10(7), 1379.
