Reishi

Other Names of Reishi

Lingzhi mushroom
Ganoderma lucida mushroom.
Linh chi
Kadodetake
Seon-cho
Gil-sang-beo-seot
Yeong ji cho
Jeok ji

Useful Parts of the Plant

Stem
Entire mushroom

The Reishi mushroom is well known for its health benefits and has been a part of traditional Chinese medicine for several years now. This type of mushroom is the oldest form of mushroom that is used for treatment of various diseases such as cancer. The wild variety of this reishi mushroom is often found growing at the base of deciduous trees. They can also be found deep inside a mountain or near springs as well. This mushroom can be found in six colors - blue, green, white, red, yellow and black. Each particular color has specific benefits for different parts of the body. These mushrooms are now grown in the United States, Europe, Asia, and South America.

Nutritional Information and Properties

As mentioned earlier, the Reishi mushroom offers many health benefits and this is because of the various nutrients it contains. Some of the key nutrients that Reishi contains are minerals such as copper, calcium, niacin, folate and potassium. This Reishi mushroom also contains anti cancer and pro immune properties. It is also an anti-inflammatory agent. These mushrooms also contain Vitamin C, B vitamins as well as protein and fiber. Reishi also contains anti viral, anti bacterial, anti allergic and antioxidant properties too. Out of the different kinds of Reishi mushrooms, the Red Reishi is made up of proteins, amino acids, polysaccharides and triterpeniods.

Health Benefits and Therapeutic Uses

As can be seen from the above information, the Reishi mushroom has many healing properties and this is why it is used to treat many ailments. Read on to find out more about the health benefits and therapeutic uses of Reishi.

Reishi can be used to treat many diseases such bronchitis, hepatitis, insomnia, anxiety and so on.
Studies have also shown that Reishi can help lower cholesterol levels and bring down high blood pressure levels as well. This means that it helps to reduce the risk of heart problems.
Research carried out on Reishi mushrooms have shown that the Red Reishi mushroom has manifold benefits for those suffering from respiratory ailments like asthma. It can also be used to help with a cough as well.
Reishi is often used in a tonic form to treat arthritis, liver disorders and hypertension as well.
Problems like HIV/AIDS and chronic fatigue syndrome are also being treated with this Reishi mushroom.
Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety can also be kept at bay with the regular consumption of reishi.
Reishi also contains properties that help to lower blood sugar levels and thus is recommended for diabetics to keep their blood sugar levels in check.
Reishi is also known to boost and strengthen the immune system which then helps in fighting off various infections and diseases. It thus reduces the risk of suffering from autoimmune diseases.
Reishi also helps to regulate the water and sodium content in the body. Therefore it helps people who suffer from congestive heart failure, fat related problems, myocardial infarction and other such diseases.
Studies have also shown that reishi helps with mental illnesses such as dementia and Alzheimer's. It helps the make the mind more alert and active as it helps to improve the energy levels of a person.
Ongoing research on the Reishi mushroom has shown that it can help suppress the growth of cancer cells as it contains anti cancer properties.
Reishi also improves the working of the metabolic system and thus helps to prevent any metabolic problems.
Reishi is also beneficial for treating skin problems. It is believed to help diminish age spots and fine lines and also control acne as well.

Other Uses:

Reishi can be added to herbal teas or coffee drinks.