Reishi contains several constituents, including
sterols, coumarin, mannitol, polysaccharides, and triterpenoids called
ganoderic acids. Ganoderic acids seem to help lower blood pressure
as well as decrease low density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglyceride
levels. These specific triterpenoids also help to reduce blood platelets
from sticking together—an important factor in lowering the risk
for coronary artery disease.
While human research demonstrates some efficacy for the herb in
treating altitude sickness and chronic hepatitis B, these uses still
need to be confirmed.
History
The Chinese have always regarded the mushroom
as having special properties. Mushrooms are regarded as "spirit
medicine' because they are believed to nourish the shen, or spirit.
As such, they are considered particularly important in vegetarian
diets and regarded as a medicinal food that promotes longevity. Various
medicinal mushrooms are used by the Chinese.
One of the oldest recorded botanical monograph has claimed that
reishi mushroom made the body lighter, which may refer to its ability
to reduce cholesterol and blood lipid levels. They also have immunbe
potentiating properties.
Reishi has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for more than
4,000 years. The Chinese name Ling zhi translates as the “herb
of spiritual potency” and was highly prized as an elixir of
immortality. Its traditional Chinese medicine indications include
treatment of general fatigue and weakness, asthma, insomnia, and
cough.
Remedies
For
Reishi is recommended for:
• altitude sickness
• chemotherapy support
• fatigue
• hepatitis
• HIV support
• high blood pressure
• high triglycerides
Description
Reishi mushrooms grow wild on decaying
logs and tree stumps in the coastal provinces of China. The fruiting
body of the mushroom is employed medicinally. Reishi occurs in six
different colors, but the red variety is most commonly used and commercially
cultivated in North America, China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea.
Dosage
Herbalists recommend 1.5-9 grams of the crude dried mushroom per
day, 1-1.5 grams per day in powder form, or 1 ml per day of tincture,
or as a tea.
Safety
Side effects from reishi can include dizziness, dry mouth and throat,
nose bleeds, and abdominal upset. These may develop with continuous
use over three to six months. As it may increase bleeding time,
reishi is not recommended for those taking anti-coagulant (e.g.,
blood-thinning) medications. Pregnant or lactating women should
consult a physician before taking reishi. Because of these severe
side effects we recommend that you consult and be under the supervision
of a qualified professional before and during taking this herb.
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