Reishi mushrooms, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, are a type of fungus that has gained widespread attention in recent years due to their adaptogenic properties. These mushrooms have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, and modern scientific research has confirmed their fascinating health benefits.

All the fuss around these not very pretty from the outside chaps is due to their active compounds, which have been the subject of extensive scientific research in both Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine. Triterpenoids, for example, have been found to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects. Polysaccharides, also found in Reishi, have been shown to have antioxidant and immune-modulating properties, while peptidoglycans demonstrate antiviral and antibacterial effects. So how can Reishi mushrooms benefit us?

IMMUNE SYSTEM & INFLAMMATION

The immune-modulating effects of Reishi mushrooms mean that they can help to strengthen and regulate the immune system. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that it could increase the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and chronic inflammation, associated with a variety of diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. Reishi mushrooms also proved to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce the risk of these conditions. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found that Reishi could reduce inflammation in the body by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules, such as pro-inflammatory cytokines.

CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH & CANCERS

Some recent research revealed potential anti-tumour effects of these wonderful fungi, which means Reishi might be able to prevent and help treat certain types of cancer. A 2011 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that Reishi is involved in the induction of apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. In addition, it may have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system, as a 2017 study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine showed it can lower cholesterol levels.

HORMONE BALANCE

One of the main reasons why we have chosen Red Reishi Mushroom when we formulated our hormone-balancing supplements, is its unique ability to inhibit an enzyme called 5⍺-reductase, which converts testosterone into more potent DHT (dihydrotestosterone). As a result, Reishi naturally reduces excess androgens in women, who suffer from PCOS or other hormonal disbalances.

Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food showed that Reishi mushrooms could also reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and insomnia.

These remarkable health benefits of Reishi mushrooms make them a valuable ingredient and a potent supporter in any healing journey. Don’t take our words for granted, try Reishi yourself and don’t forget you can find it in our natural and functional formulation.

References:

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10. Wachtel-Galor S, Yuen J, Buswell JA, et al. Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi): A Medicinal Mushroom. In: Benzie IFF, Wachtel-Galor S, eds. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011. Chapter 9. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/
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