Reishi

Ganoderma lucidum

Recognized for its ability to support a healthy immune system and help the body adapt to stress, it’s no wonder reishi is commonly known as “The Mushroom of Immortality.”*

HERBAL BENEFITS

Common Name Reishi, Lingzhi, Mushroom of Immortality

Family Name Ganodermataceae

Parts Used Fruiting Body

Herbal Actions Adaptogen, Alterative, Immuno-stimulating

Health Benefits Immunity, Seasonal Care, Stress Relief

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Unearth the divine benefits behind, “The Mushroom of Immortality.”

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) has been exalted in spiritual ceremonies, infused into foods, and respected as herbal medicine across the globe for its adaptogenic effects and immune system support.* While its intricate root system, known as mycelium, supports our ecosystem through decomposition and nutrient exchanges with its neighboring plant life, its fruiting body is what’s most commonly used as herbal medicine.

Known in Asia for centuries, reishi is gaining popularity in the West for its ability to support the immune system and help keep the body in balance.* While reishi consists of an array of constituents and phytochemicals, the three most physiologically active constituents seem to be polysaccharides, peptidoglycans, and triterpenes. Presently, a good deal of research on reishi confirms its therapeutic potential due to high concentrations of polysaccharide compounds called beta-glucans, which contributes to its ability to support immune function.*

Because of reishi’s mechanism for gently bringing the body back into balance, it is traditionally prescribed to be used consistently and over time. A daily tea, dose of tea or infused broth are great ways to absorb its benefits while reminding us to center ourselves, breathe, and take things one step at a time.

Known as lingzhi in Chinese (literally translated as “Mushroom of Immortality”) reishi’s wellness benefits have been touted for 4,000 years. Representations of the mushroom began to appear in Taoist art in the 1400s, symbolizing luck and good health, and it appeared in the first Chinese pharmacopeia during the Ming Dynasty. Before traditional Chinese practitioners began to cultivate it, reishi was so expensive that only members of the noble classes could afford it, adding to its reputation as the “divine mushroom.” According to Taoist legend, the Isles of the Immortals held secret groves where the sacred mushroom grew lushly.

Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have historically prescribed reishi to balance Qi (vital energy), bringing balance to the mind, body, and conscience. This seems to coincide with Western Herbalism’s classification of reishi as an adaptogen, a category of roots, leaves, berries, and fungi that bolster the body’s ability to handle stress under challenging circumstances.*

Products that contain Reishi

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In a cozy kitchen, a person holds a steaming cup of tea, surrounded by fresh vegetables, bread, and a box of Reishi Mushroom with Rooibos & Orange Peel Tea, renowned as the

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The information and other content in this article is designed to provide a general overview of the botany, cultural history, and traditional uses of this herb. It is not intended and should not be construed as health advice. Every person is unique and you should consult with your health care provider before using any herbal product or supplement.

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More Reishi info

Products that contain Reishi

Stress Ease® Immune Tea

Reishi Mushroom with Rooibos & Orange Peel Tea

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