Reishi are a unique type of fungi that grows at the base of certain deciduous trees.
In Eastern medicine, Reishi mushroom benefits are well-known. Countless traditional and ancestral groups still rely on these mushrooms for things like boosting the immune system. However, Reishi mushrooms aren’t tied exclusively to traditional healing.
The modern world has quickly begun to embrace Reishi mushrooms as the perfect protection against our current lifestyle. We’re living in a world where we’re constantly exposed to inflammation, oxidation, and stress. Today’s nutritionists and medical practitioners believe that Reishi mushrooms are one of the best supplemental ingredients required for good health (prevention, maintenance and as an adjunct to medical treatments).
As human beings strive to bring more positive components into their routine, Reishi mushrooms represent an excellent source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory elements.
The Best Reishi Mushroom Benefits
Reishi mushrooms, or “Lingzhi” in Chinese, are gradually being valued in Western culture. The incredible fungus is one of the oldest symbols of longevity and wellbeing in the Eastern world, and they’re often referred to as “mushrooms of immortality.”
Originally, Reishi mushroom benefits were reserved for only the rich and the royal. In the second half of the 20th century, researchers began to study the medicinal benefits of these mushrooms more closely. Today, Reishi mushrooms can potentially:
- Boost the immune system: Reishi mushrooms have been a potent solution for boosting the immune system throughout history. Both beta-glucans and terpens within the mushroom stimulate the immune system to fight back against infection and ward off disease.
- Improve longevity: One lab-based study conducted in 2009 found that the polysaccharides within Reishi mushrooms have the capacity to extend lifespan. These molecules prevent abnormal blood vessel formations and improve immune system performance.
- Reduce fatigue: Because Reishi mushrooms are adaptogens, they help the body to combat stress. In one study with patients experiencing neurasthenia, consumption of a Reishi mushroom compound improved feelings of energy, and reduced aches and pains.
- Improve brain performance: Reishi mushrooms may have the potential to fight back against neurodegenerative disorders and protect the brain from seizures. Studies have found that Reishi extracts support the production of certain nerve growth factors in the body. This enables stronger neurological functioning.
- Fight allergies: Some studies indicate that Reishi mushrooms may have effects that allow them to fight back against allergens and improve the body’s oxygen supply. This could be beneficial for people with chronic asthma.
- Improve mood: Studies are still ongoing into the impact that Reishi mushrooms can have on feelings of depression and anxiety. One study on 132 patients ingesting Reishi mushrooms for eight weeks found improved reports of dizziness, and fewer feelings of irritability.
Further Reishi Mushroom Benefits Appear All the Time
Scientists frequently discover new Reishi mushroom benefits the more we experiment with this substance and its extracts. Some researchers already believe that the beta-glucans and triterpenes in Reishi mushroom may be helpful for reducing LDL-cholesterol in the human body.
Reishi mushrooms may also be useful for diabetics, as they help to control hyperglycaemia, according to one double-blind controlled study. The research states that Reishi may be able to inhibit an enzyme responsible for producing glucose. The scientists also found that these mushrooms might reduce or prevent kidney complications in patients too. Further study also indicates that Reishi mushrooms might be capable of promoting liver cell regeneration, so as to help remove toxins from the body.
Among all these scientific Reishi mushroom benefits, it’s also worth noting that these fungi are an excellent source of antioxidants. Their antioxidant properties could help to reduce important issues like premature aging, and the onset of chronic disease.
How Do You Add Reishi Mushrooms to a Diet?
Reishi mushrooms are safe and well tolerated for most people, both from a medical and digestive perspective. Ideally, Reishi mushrooms are best taken in supplemental form, where natural extracts can be combined with a simple delivery system to ensure the best results and the maximum potency for the mushroom. Taking a supplement instead of eating the entire mushroom will allow patients to access the highest number of benefits without extra calories. This will also be beneficial to people who don’t like the bitter and woody taste of Reishi.
Reishi mushroom benefits are best discovered as part of a comprehensive strategy for health and wellbeing. They can supplement a good nutritional diet, and regular activity, to boost the immune system, increase energy, and fight against the stresses of modern life.
Practitioners interested in using Reishi mushroom as a supplementary health solution for their patients must take into account the quality of the chosen nutraceutical seeking organic extracts, well-characterized bioactive substances and guidance for an appropriate dosing in each particular case.
