Reishi Mushrooms – A Treasure of Eastern Medicine

reishi mushrooms - health benefits

Reishi mushrooms ( Ganoderma lucidum ), also known as the “mushroom of immortality,” are one of the oldest and most revered elements of traditional Eastern medicine. Their use dates back more than 2,000 years in China, Japan, and Korea, where they were used as a health tonic to support longevity, immunity, and body balance. Modern scientific research confirms many of these traditional beliefs, indicating their broad therapeutic potential.

REISHI MUSHROOMS properties

Reishi mushrooms are mushrooms with a characteristic appearance, having a varnished, reddish-brown cap surface. The chemical composition of Reishi mushrooms includes bioactive compounds such as:

• Polysaccharides : known for their immunomodulatory effects.
• Triterpenoids : with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Peptidoglycans , sterols , and adenosine , which support cardiovascular health.

These compounds make Reishi mushrooms one of the most versatile adaptogens – substances that help the body adapt to stress.

Despite its wide range of beneficial properties, the use of reishi mushroom requires caution. Reishi mushroom side effects may include allergic reactions, nausea, and in rare cases, gastrointestinal disorders. Reishi mushroom contraindications mainly concern people taking anticoagulants, pregnant and breastfeeding women. It is important to consult a doctor before starting supplementation or using cosmetics containing reishi lingzhi .

The Effects of Reishi Mushrooms on Health

Immunomodulating effect
Reishi mushrooms are known for their immune-supporting properties. Studies show that the polysaccharides in these mushrooms stimulate the activity of macrophages and T lymphocytes. For example, Chen et al. (2014) confirmed in model studies that Reishi polysaccharides increase the production of cytokines such as interleukins and interferons, which are key to the immune response.

Anti-cancer properties
Scientific literature indicates the potential anticancer effects of Reishi mushrooms. Studies conducted by Gao et al. (2012) showed that triterpenoids inhibit cancer cell proliferation, especially in the case of breast and prostate cancers. This mechanism is related to the induction of apoptosis (programmed cell death) and a decrease in angiogenesis.

Support for cardiovascular health
The adenosine in Reishi relaxes blood vessels, which can lower blood pressure. In addition, polysaccharides can reduce LDL cholesterol levels, which helps prevent atherosclerosis. Clinical studies conducted in Japan (Takashi et al., 2017) suggest that supplementation with Reishi mushroom extract for 12 weeks improves endothelial function in people with hypertension.

Reducing stress and improving sleep quality
Reishi mushrooms are also valued for their adaptogenic effects. Extracts from these mushrooms reduce cortisol levels in the body, helping to cope with chronic stress. In addition, compounds present in the mushrooms can modulate the activity of the nervous system, which helps to improve the quality of sleep. A study conducted by Wang et al. (2018) showed that people supplementing with Reishi mushrooms noted a 30% improvement in the duration and quality of sleep.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
Reishi mushrooms reduce oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation. This makes them a promising tool in preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

popularity and application

Reishi mushrooms are extremely popular in Asia, especially in China and Japan, where they are an integral part of traditional medicine. In powdered form or as extracts, Reishi mushrooms have also gained recognition in the West, especially among proponents of natural medicine and adaptogens. These products are widely available in health food stores, in capsules, powders, and also infusions.

In Japan and Korea, Reishi is also used as an ingredient in cosmetics, thanks to its antioxidant and regenerative properties.

reishi mushrooms in cosmetics

It is worth mentioning Reishi mushrooms as ingredients in creams , masks and serums for skin care, where their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are used. The prices of such cosmetics are very high.

In Asia, they are a valued ingredient in rejuvenating face creams . They work well as a strong active ingredient in serums or boosters . When combined with retinol or ceramides , for example, they give great effects on the skin. Eye cosmetics with reishi mushrooms additionally reinforced with peptides are wonderful supporting ingredients. Reishi mushrooms also add energy to the skin, regenerate it and beautifully smooth it.

Reishi Orientana cosmetics are an excellent choice for those who value natural care and effective solutions inspired by Asian tradition. Orientana reishi cream and other products from this line combine the beneficial effects of reishi mushroom with innovative formulas, providing comprehensive skin care for every day.

Orientana Reishi Day Cream

One of the most popular products of the brand. Orientana reishi day cream is light, perfectly moisturizes the skin and protects it from the negative impact of external factors. Thanks to the reishi extract, the cream has anti-aging effects, reduces fine wrinkles, and also soothes irritation and redness.

Orientana Reishi Night Cream

Supports skin regeneration during sleep. Rich in natural ingredients, including reishi lingzhi , the cream intensively nourishes the skin, restoring its elasticity and healthy glow of the skin .

Reishi Eye and Eyelid Serum

An intensively concentrated product designed to combat signs of aging. The serum supports collagen synthesis, has an antioxidant effect and strengthens the skin's protective barrier. It lifts the upper eyelid, brightens the skin and reduces wrinkles.

Reishi Boosters

A high amount of active ingredient - reishi mushrooms combined with other active ingredients, other adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea, red algae and purple rice, which has an intensive effect on the skin.

Reishi face serum with ceramides and retinol is a combination of reishi mushrooms with the latest generation of active ingredients.

reishi mushrooms in supplements

These are the most popular forms of supplements. Extracts are standardized for their content of bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides and triterpenoids. Their advantages include precise dosing, ease of use (anywhere and anytime), and longer storage period.

Particularly preferred in the West, where convenience and standardized quality are valued.

Powder

Reishi mushroom powder is made by drying and grinding the fruiting bodies or mycelium. It can be a pure powder or a powdered extract with a higher concentration of active ingredients. In this form, reishi mushrooms can be added to drinks (e.g. water, coffee, tea) or meals. Often also used in smoothies or as an ingredient in baked goods. Reishi mushroom powder can have many uses, but the intense, bitter taste may not suit everyone.

Teas and infusions

Reishi mushrooms are available as dried slices or as a powder for brewing. They can be made into a tea, but it has a characteristic bitter taste. This is a traditional way of consumption, especially popular in Asia. It can be combined with other ingredients, such as honey or ginger, to improve the taste. In this way, reishi mushrooms are consumed as a ritual to support relaxation and improve immunity.

Liquid extracts and tinctures

These are concentrated forms of supplements in liquid form, often prepared with alcohol to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the active ingredients. Such forms are easy to dose (a few drops added to a drink) and good for people who have difficulty swallowing capsules. The disadvantage is the intense taste and a small amount of alcohol.

Coffee and cocoa with Reishi

Products such as coffee, cocoa or latte enriched with Reishi mushroom extract are becoming increasingly popular, especially among people looking for functional drinks. The advantage is the combination of the effects of Reishi mushrooms with the natural energy of coffee or cocoa. The taste is also quite pleasant compared to traditional forms. This form is often available in cafes and as a ready-made mixture.

Jellies and flavor supplements

Reishi mushroom extract jellies are a newer form of supplementation, aimed mainly at people who prefer sweeter products or children. They are easy to consume and may be an attractive form for people who do not tolerate the bitter taste of mushrooms.

summary

Reishi mushrooms, thanks to their bioactive components, have a range of health benefits, from immune support to anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects. Their versatile properties are supported by both traditional uses and modern scientific research. Although most research results are promising, further clinical trials on large groups are needed to fully determine their therapeutic potential. Given the growing popularity of Reishi around the world, their use may become an important element of an integrative approach to health.

Biography

• Chen, X., et al. (2014). Immune-enhancing effects of polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
• Gao, Y., et al. (2012). Triterpenoids of Ganoderma lucidum induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Oncology Reports.
• Takashi, M., et al. (2017). Ganoderma lucidum extract improves endothelial function in hypertensive patients. Hypertension Research.
• Wang, Q., et al. (2018). Effects of Ganoderma lucidum on sleep quality: A randomized controlled trial. Sleep and Biological Rhythms.