In the Chinese language, the word "reishi" translates as "plant of immortality," according to acupuncturist and herbalist Joseph P. Hou, author of "The Healing Power of Chinese Herbs and Medicinal Recipes." This evocative name may refer to reishi's legendary anti-aging properties. Reishi mushrooms are a Chinese medical standard that have been utilized for over 2,000 years to treat conditions such as insomnia, exhaustion and nervousness. Do not use reishi mushroom supplements without consulting your doctor first.
Botanical Facts
In the wild, reishi mushrooms flourish on assorted trees in the hot, damp provinces of China. Hou explains that six kinds of reishi grow in China, including yellow, green, purple and red varieties. Nowadays, commercial farmers produce these prized fungi for a growing market. These fungi also grow in North America, Europe and South America, namely the tropical climes of the Amazon basin, according to clinical herbalist David Winston, author of "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief."
Nutrition
Reishi mushrooms contain vitamin B12, vitamin C, volatile oils, amino acids and sugars. According to Hou, reishi mushrooms also can also boast of minerals, including iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium. In addition, they have ergosterols and other sterols, which are plant constituents that obstruct the assimilation of cholesterol in the digestive system. Consumption of plant sterols can reduce cholesterol levels, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Consult a qualified health care provider before adding reishi mushroom supplements to your regimen.
Clinical Applications
According to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, clinical applications for reishi mushroom supplements may include cancer prevention, alleviation of urinary tract conditions and relief of nausea resulting from chemotherapy. Reishi mushrooms appear to strengthen the immune system through macrophage stimulation, notes the MSKCC. Macrophages are cells that perform an essential role in preventing disease, including assisting in the regulation of the immune system response and scavenging for cancer cells and other microorganisms. Please see a medical professional about any health concerns you have.
Adverse Effects and Contraindications
If you take anti-coagulant, immunosuppressant or chemotherapy drugs, speak with your physician before taking reishi mushroom supplements, as an adverse herb-drug interaction might result, according to MSKCC. Winston advises against using reishi mushroom supplements if you have a mushroom allergy. Powdered reishi mushroom supplements have been singled out in two cases of adverse side effects. While Hou comments that therapeutic doses of reishi mushroom supplements are generally safe, overdoses have caused nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sleeplessness and skin rashes.
References
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Reishi
- "The Healing Power of Chinese Herbs and Medicinal Recipes"; Joseph P. Hou et al.; 2005
- "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief"; David Winston et al.; 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Heart-healthy Diet: Nutrition Basics
Member Comments