Ganoderma lucidum is the scientific name for reishi mushrooms, fungi with a varnish-coated purplish-brown fruiting body. Like many other fungi, they grow on the decaying wood of dead trees, notes the University of Michigan. They have been used medicinally in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. However, Ganoderma's safety and effectiveness has yet to be proven, states Healthline. Some of the negative effects and conditions associated with Ganoderma are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by your doctor.
Common Side Effects
Long-term Ganoderma use is seen as safe up to 16 months, states Healthline. However, according to the University of Michigan, rare effects may arise following continuous use over three to six months. These general side effects include dizziness, dry mouth and throat, nosebleeds and upset stomach. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center also notes the possibility for vomiting and itching due to a rash.
Increased Risk of Bleeding
According to the University of Pittsburgh, there have been indications that Ganoderma impairs the clotting of blood. Consequently, it is recommended that anybody suffering from irregular bleeding should avoid consuming Ganoderma. Also, be sure to not mix Ganoderma with any other blood-thinning agents such as aspirin, Plavix or Triclid, as they can increase these risks.
Liver Inflammation
According to Healthline, severe liver inflammation leading to death has been associated with the use of Ganoderma. Mahidol University also states that Ganoderma was directly associated with liver damage in one case. This rare reaction was due to a case of fatal hepatitis in the liver. Boiling the Ganoderma prior to ingestion presented no negative effects. However, liver toxicity was noted when Ganoderma was taken as a powder.
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