Benefits

Ganoderma lucidum mushrooms, more commonly referred to as Reishi or Lingzhi in China, have long been used for health benefits and spiritual support. Reishi mushrooms have long been revered as symbols of longevity and are celebrated for their ability to promote energy levels, boost immunity, and promote wellbeing. Recent scientific research has also discovered reishi’s anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activity. Pre-clinical studies have also demonstrated their liver protective properties, helping reduce cholesterol and blood pressure levels while possibly helping lower cholesterol. Multiple in vitro studies suggest reishi mushroom extracts and components exhibit neuroprotective properties which could help reduce inflammation as well as improve memory and cognitive performance.

Side Effects

Ganoderma lucidum mushrooms, more commonly known by their Japanese names Reishi or Lingzhi mushrooms, are widely revered in Eastern traditions as symbols of health and longevity. While Reishi may help improve immunity and gut health, further research needs to be conducted in order to fully comprehend potential side effects and their possible ramifications.

NPRA has received several local reports of adverse reactions that appear to be associated with the consumption of lingzhi products, particularly kidney and liver-related events such as increased creatinine and urea levels in blood, acute interstitial nephritis (swelling of tissues that filter waste out of body), worsening of existing kidney impairments, etc.

Notably, the body does not naturally produce reishi and must be taken through diet or supplements in order to reap its benefits. Reishi supplements come in various forms such as capsules, tablets, extracts and powder and can also be found as over-the-counter herbal formulations such as tea or tincture.

People should exercise extreme caution when consuming these products, particularly those who suffer from medical conditions that reduce kidney or liver functions, such as reduced kidney or liver functions. If any signs or symptoms arise when taking Lingzhi products such as: