Ganoderma lucidum, commonly referred to as Reishi or Varnished Conk and Lacquered Bracket in Asia, is a medicinal mushroom with several beneficial properties such as antihypertensive, hypocholesterolemic, antihistaminic and immunomodulatory activities. Additionally it exhibits antitumor activity as well as immunomodulatory properties.

Hemlock varnish shelf mushrooms are the primary Northeastern species for making reishi, although Ganoderma tsugae found on dead hemlocks and Ganoderma oregense found on hardwoods can also be useful for producing tea.

Steep for 10 minutes.

Ganoderma, commonly referred to as Reishi, is an invaluable medicinal mushroom known for its anti-tumor, liver cancer, blood sugar management and stress relieving properties. Reishi has been extensively studied clinically – its ganoderic acid has been demonstrated to reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure and inhibit tumor growth. While double extraction tincture extracting the healing benefits is ideal, simple tea making can still reap some significant rewards; Appalachia’s most prevalent species is Ganoderma Tsugae that grows on dead hemlocks and hardwood trees across its region.

Steep for 20 minutes.

Ganoderma lucidum, also known as the Reishi mushroom, is one of the best-studied medicinal mushrooms in Western medicine, having proven itself effective at fighting tumors, protecting liver function and managing blood sugar. Studies have also revealed its remarkable anti-tumor properties as well as blood sugar regulation properties. Herbalists and traditional healers adore it for its non-toxic side effects and overall nourishing benefits, making it an excellent addition to their practice. Ganoderma tsugae), the most prevalent northeastern species of reishi fungus, can be found growing on dead hemlocks and hardwood trees throughout Appalachia. Reishi mushroom can be more easily collected and found than hardier species such as true tinder polypore (Fomitopsis officinalis) or artist’s conk (Ganoderma applanatum). Although double extraction tincture would likely offer better benefits, even just having a cup of reishi tea will still do wonders!

Steep for 30 minutes.

Ganoderma lucidum, more commonly known as Reishi, is one of the most studied and utilized herbs in herbal medicine. Reishi is an effective liver tonic that has also shown anti-tumor properties. Reishi also contains lectins which inhibit cell adhesion as well as being thought effective at lowering cholesterol and blood pressure – making reishi an ideal treatment option for liver cancer and diabetes as well as treating other ailments. While double extraction tincture use is preferable, making tea is also great – Appalachia hosts local Ganoderma tsugae strains to reap its many benefits!

Steep for 1 hour.

Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) are widely studied herbal medicines used in Eastern traditions for millennia to promote longevity and vitality. Reishi tea can be enjoyed to experience its health benefits; making double extraction tincture is recommended to reap all water and alcohol soluble constituents; however this easy recipe serves as an introduction to its medicinal powers and works equally well for other tough medicinal mushrooms such as Ganoderma tsugae or Fomitopsis officinalis).”

Note: Hannah Hedrick updated this article with new information.