Reported uses of reishi mushrooms, also called ganoderma lucidum, ling chih or ling zhi, go back centuries to ancient China. However, modern research into the benefits of this fungus is in its early stages, according to SupplementNews.org. Historically, reishi was a rare and precious substance because it takes so long to grow in the wild, but cultivated versions are readily available today. Both the mushroom itself and its roots are used. The red variety is most often cultivated in North America.
Connection
Although clinical trials into the effectiveness of reishi are lacking, the People's Republic of China's official Pharmacopoeia lists the mushroom as being approved as an effective treatment for insomnia, notes the Susan G. Komen for the Cure website. Reishi contains triterpenoids, chemicals that can decrease anxiety and have a sedating effect in high doses, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Related Benefits
The Wild Rose College of Natural Healing indicates that in addition to its calming effects that can help induce sleep, reishi may also affect the frequency and severity of restless leg syndrome. The Chinese believe that it fights the physical effects of stress.
Dosage
Reishi mushrooms are not edible, but are available in dried form for use as a tea, in powder form and as a supplement. SupplementNews.org recommends 1.5 to 9 g daily of reishi in dried form. In powder form, use no more than 1.5 g per day.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of reishi are dryness of the nose and mouth, which can result in nosebleeds. SupplementNews.org suggests that bloody stools might occur after extended use. Skin rashes, dizziness and headache have also been reported.
Possible Interactions
Reishi reportedly also has anticoagulant properties, so exercise caution if you are already taking any medication or other herbal supplement with similar effects, as reishi may increase the potency of such drugs. According to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, reishi might also interact poorly with amphetamines and antibiotics. There are some indications that it may lower blood sugar, so it could exacerbate the effects of other supplements that also do so, such as bitter melon, ginseng and chromium.
Warning
Because of its potential effects as an anticoagulant, SupplementNews.org warns not to take reishi if you suffer from low blood pressure or a low platelet count. Susan G. Komen for the Cure reports that limited studies so far seem to indicate that taking reishi can be safe for up to 16 months, but be cautious about taking it longer than that, and consult your doctor prior to experimenting with this mushroom.
