Reishi, also known by its scientific nameGanoderma lucidum, is a mushroom that has been used in various Asian traditions for centuries. It is now attracting the attention of scientific researchers, who are exploring its properties and potential benefits.
In this article, we highlight the findings of scientific studies on Reishi and its potential benefits as part of a varied and balanced diet.
A history spanning a thousand years
The Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), also known as "Lingzhi" in China, is a mushroom that has been known and used in Asia for over 2,000 years. It is often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality" due to its central role in Chinese and Japanese medical traditions. It was once reserved for emperors and the ruling classes, who regarded it as an elixir promoting longevity.
In traditional Chinese medicine, Reishi was used to balance the body and boost vitality. Its historical uses included supporting the immune system, managing stress, and improving overall resilience.
Ingredients and active ingredients
Reishi contains a wide variety of bioactive compounds, including:
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Polysaccharides (including beta-glucans), which are being studied for their effect on the immune system.
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Triterpenes (ganoderic acids), which have antioxidant properties and are being studied for their effects on overall well-being.
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Sterols and peptides, which contribute to the mushroom's unique composition.
What are the benefits within the European regulatory framework?
In Europe, health claims regarding dietary supplements are strictly regulated by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority). Currently, no specific health claims have been officially approved for Reishi. However, its compounds, particularly beta-glucans derived from mushrooms, are recognized for their role in supporting the body’s natural defenses.
Incorporating Reishi into a Balanced Diet
Reishi is available in various forms: powder, extract, tea, or food supplement. It is often consumed as a decoction or added to food preparations. Its naturally bitter taste is a sign of the presence of triterpenes, one of its main bioactive compounds.
Conclusion
Reishi continues to be the subject of extensive research aimed at better understanding its properties and its role in maintaining the body’s balance. Its use is part of a holistic approach to well-being, complementing a varied and balanced diet.
Reishi Production at Mycosphere
Our commitment to quality:
We grow our mushrooms using 100% organic methods, and all our products are certified "BE-BIO-01, Agriculture Belgique" by CERTISYS.
Our mushrooms are dehydrated at low temperatures to best preserve their quality. This product is 100% natural, raw, vegan, additive-free, lactose-free, and gluten-free.
Produced in Belgium, we oversee the entire production process: from spores to harvest packaging.
Produced in Belgium, 100% organic, traceable production from start to finish
The vast majority of dietary supplements and other mushroom-based products available on the market use mushrooms imported from China, which can sometimes pose challenges in terms of tracing production methods.
At Mycosphère, we manage the entire production process for our products, from spores to harvest , drying, and packaging.
We grow them on a 100% organic growing medium that we produce using beech wood and select organic grains sourced from our region.
Reishi mycelium grows on a custom-made substrate composed of beech sawdust and organic grains sourced from our region. This substrate is first pasteurized to eliminate any contaminants before being mixed with the selected reishi mycelium.
Growing them takes time and patience: it takes between 3 and 4 months from the time the mycelium is propagated until harvest . We monitor the humidity and air circulation in our growing rooms to ensure optimal development and quality of the fruiting bodies.
Nous pratiquons ensuite un séchage lent, à basses températures (<42°C.) de manière à préserver au mieux toutes leurs qualités.
How should we consume our reishi?
A simple, time-honored recipe: herbal tea
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Ingredients :
- 5–10 g of dried reishi
- 1 liter of water
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Preparation :
- Rinse the reishi pieces under cold water.
- Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Add the reishi pieces and simmer over low heat for 1 to 2 hours.
- Strain the tea before drinking it.
- You can add honey or lemon to mellow the flavor.
- Directions: Drink the tea hot or cold throughout the day.
Scientific References and Online Resources
- Zhang, H., et al. (2017). Immunomodulatory activity of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides through regulation of the function of monocyte-derived dendritic cells. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
- Hsu, S. C., et al. (2009). Ganoderma lucidum extracts inhibit growth and induce actin polymerization in bladder cancer cells. Molecular Carcinogenesis.
- Liu, C., et al. (2017). Anti-inflammatory activity of Ganoderma lucidum in ulcerative colitis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
- Wachtel-Galor, S., et al. (2004). Antioxidant properties of Ganoderma lucidum in aged mice. Phytotherapy Research.
- Chen, H. S., et al. (2009). Hypotensive and lipid-lowering effects of Ganoderma lucidum in spontaneously hypertensive rats. American Journal of Chinese Medicine.
- Lai, C. S., et al. (2012). Neuroprotective effects of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides in an in vitro model of Parkinson's disease. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
- Tang, W., et al. (2005). Effects of Ganoderma lucidum on fatigue and quality of life in patients with neurasthenia. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
About the author
He has been working for several years on mycelium cultivation, organic mushrooms, and functional extracts. Through his articles, he shares practical expertise gained from the production, experimentation, and processing of mushrooms.
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