Reishi is one of the best-known mushrooms from the Eastern herbal tradition. For more than two thousand years this special mushroom has had a place in the herbalism of China and Japan. At Dutch Balance we select only high-grade Reishi supplements. In this article you can read what Reishi is exactly, where it comes from and what is in it.
What exactly are Reishi mushrooms?
The Reishi mushroom, scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum, carries the honorific name “Lingzhi” in Chinese. This red-brown, glossy mushroom with its characteristic antler-like shape grows naturally on hardwood, especially on oak and plum trees in warm, humid parts of Asia.
What characterises Reishi is its rich composition of bioactive compounds, such as beta-glucans (polysaccharides) and triterpenes, including ganoderic acid. Those triterpenes are also what give it its typical bitter taste. At Dutch Balance we offer various forms, from concentrated extracts to capsules, so you can choose what suits you best.
Reishi in the Eastern tradition
In traditional Chinese herbalism Reishi is held in high regard. The nickname ‘mushroom of immortality’ says enough about the status it acquired over the centuries. It was used in teas and infusions and had a place in rituals and herbal blends.
That long history makes Reishi one of the most discussed mushrooms. Traditional use is something other than scientific proof, though, and that distinction is worth keeping in mind.
What is in Reishi?
The composition of Reishi is extensive. The mushroom contains, among other things:
- Beta-glucans, a type of polysaccharide you come across in more mushrooms.
- Triterpenes, including ganoderic acid, characteristic of Reishi.
- Various antioxidants that occur naturally in the mushroom.
These compounds help determine the character of Reishi. What exactly they do in the body is still the subject of research.
Reishi and research
The compounds in Reishi are being looked at scientifically, but much of that research has been carried out in the lab or in animals and is still at an early stage. There are no hard conclusions for humans yet.
There are currently no EU-approved health claims for Reishi. See it as a food supplement, not a medicine and not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle. Do you take medication, are you pregnant or breastfeeding? Then consult your doctor first.
Reishi side effects: is this mushroom suitable for everyone?
Reishi is generally well tolerated. High doses may cause intestinal complaints or a dry mouth. Beyond that, there are three points to keep in mind:
- Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Do not use if you are allergic to one of the ingredients.
- Do you take medication or have a medical condition? Consult your doctor first.
Stick to the dose on the packaging and start low, so you notice how your body responds.
How to use Reishi
Reishi is easiest to use in capsule form. Stick to the dose on the packaging and take the capsules with some water. Many people choose to take Reishi in the evening, but a fixed moment that suits your day works just as well.
Frequently asked questions about reishi
What does reishi do?
We are not allowed to say. No health claims have been approved for reishi in the European Union, and research into its compounds has mainly been done in the lab or in animals. What is established: reishi (Ganoderma lucidum, lingzhi in Chinese) has had a place in the herbal traditions of China and Japan for more than two thousand years.
What are the side effects of reishi?
Reishi is generally well tolerated. At high doses, bowel complaints or a dry mouth can occur. Do not use reishi during pregnancy or breastfeeding or if you are allergic to one of the ingredients, and if you use medication or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor first.
How do you use reishi?
Most easily in capsule form, with some water. Keep to the dosage on the packaging and start low. Many people take reishi in the evening, but a fixed moment that suits your day works just as well.
Choose quality at Dutch Balance
With a Reishi supplement, quality makes the difference. Our supplements are selected on the basis of clear criteria:
- Extracts with a good ratio of polysaccharides and triterpenes.
- Full traceability from mushroom to supplement.
- Extraction processes that preserve the compounds.
- Regular checks for purity.
Want to know more or order straight away? Have a look at our Reishi capsules or the full range of mushrooms.
Buying Reishi? Have a look at the organic Reishi capsules from the whole fruiting body.
