Ganoderma lucidum is used worldwide to promote health and longevity and for its anticancer and immune-boosting effects. You might be more familiar with one of its common names--reishi mushroom or ling zhi. Some folks take Ganoderma lucidum to protect the liver, to boost the cardiovascular system or to help fight chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes. Fortunately, side effects are few and appear to be mild, according to Drugs.com, though more study is needed.
Mild Effects
Most adverse reactions to Ganoderma lucidum are mild, according to Drugs.com. You may experience gastrointestinal upset, dizziness or skin irritation.
Initial Effects
When you begin taking reishi powder extract, you might experience some temporary symptoms, according to Canada's BC Cancer Agency. These can include abnormal sweating, bloating, sleepiness, thirstiness, frequent urination, loose stool and rashes.
Blood Thinning Interaction
You may experience a nosebleed or bloody stools when taking supplements of this mushroom, according to "The Essential Herb-Drug-Vitamin Interaction Guide," by George T. Grossberg and Barry Fox. Taking reishi with blood-thinning medications, including aspirin, can increase your risk of bleeding or bruising and should be done under the supervision of a health care provider.
References
- BC Cancer Agency: Mushroom Therapies
- Drugs: Reishi Mushroom
- "The Essential Herb-Drug-Vitamin Interaction Guide"; George T. Grossberg and Barry Fox; 2007
- Ray Sahelian, M.D.: Ganoderma Lucidum Supplement Extract Benefit, Side Effects, Dosage
- PubMed: Abstract--Ganoderma lucidum suppresses angiogenesis through the inhibition of secretion of VEGF and TGF-beta1 from prostate cancer cells
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