Reishi: The Complete Guide

Reishi: The Complete Guide

Reishi mushroom, scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum, is one of the most popular functional mushrooms, celebrated for its ability to boost immunity, reduce stress, and promote longevity. It’s been used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine for centuries, and is now well-known for its adaptogenic (stress-balancing) and health-boosting benefits (1). 


In this guide, we'll explore its origins, benefits, how to incorporate it into your daily routine, and answer frequently asked questions.


What Is Reishi?


Reishi is a reddish, woody, fan-shaped mushroom with a shiny surface, often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality. It usually grows on hardwood trees in warm, humid forests, mainly in Asia, North America, and warmer parts of Europe, like Italy, Spain and the Balkans.


Reishi has natural compounds like polysaccharides (sugars that help support your immune system), triterpenoids (which can have anti-inflammatory effects), and peptidoglycans (proteins that play a role in immune health). Because of these compounds, studies suggest that Reishi can help balance your immune system and reduce inflammation in the body (3).


The History of Reishi


Reishi's history dates back over 2,000 years in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, where it was used to support the immune system, improve sleep, and promote vitality (4). Reishi has a long history of being prized as a powerful medicinal mushroom. Referred to as "Lingzhi" in Chinese, Reishi was once reserved for royalty as it was believed to promote a long life. 


In Daoist and Buddhist traditions, Reishi was cherished for its calming effects, helping with meditation and symbolising spiritual strength. Today, modern science can support many of its traditional uses, highlighting its role in enhancing immune function and reducing stress (5). 



What Are the Benefits of Taking Reishi?


Traditionally used to combat insomnia, DIRTEA Reishi is the perfect option for those looking to unwind, relax, and find balance in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its calming and restorative properties can promote better sleep, support relaxation, and support overall well-being (6). From grounding to strengthening, the benefits of Reishi are boundless. 



1. Immunity Boost

Studies suggest that Reishi may support the immune system by stimulating white blood cells, which play a key role in immune function and enhance the body's ability to fight off infections. Research indicates that it may help maintain immune balance, particularly for those with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems. However, if you have a health condition, it’s important to consult your doctor before incorporating Reishi into your routine.



2. Calming Effects

Reishi can help you relax and reduce stress by balancing the nervous system and lowering cortisol levels (7). Because of this, it can improve sleep quality and help with anxiety. Often enjoyed in the evening, Reishi promotes a peaceful night's sleep without making you feel groggy. Think of it like a guided meditation in a mug.


3. Helps Maintain Blood Sugar Levels

Reishi may help keep blood sugar levels in check by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar spikes. Its polysaccharides support metabolic health, making it a top contender for those at risk of type 2 diabetes or other metabolic issues (8).


4. Anti-Aging Properties

Reishi’s antioxidants fight oxidative stress, which plays a role in aging. Drinking it regularly can support your skin, promote healthy cells, and boost overall energy (9). Its anti-inflammatory effects can also help reduce redness, improve skin elasticity, and support collagen production, giving you a more youthful glow.


3 Easy Ways to Incorporate Reishi into Your Daily Routine


Including Reishi in your daily routine is easy. Start by adding it to your everyday habits, whether that’s mixing it into your morning coffee, blending it into a smoothie, or taking it as a gummy with your vitamins.


Here’s are some of the ways you can take Reishi: 


  1. Teas and coffees – Stir DIRTEA Reishi into your favourite hot drinks, like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate for a soothing and functional boost.

  2. Powdered extracts – Blend Reishi powder into smoothies, sprinkle it into soups, or mix it into your favourite recipes for an easy nutritional upgrade.

  3. Capsules and tinctures – You can take Reishi in capsule form or add a few drops of a tincture to your drink. 


For relaxation, Reishi is best taken in the evening, while for immune support, it can be consumed anytime. Want to enjoy Reishi in a cosy environment? Try our Reishi latte recipe whilst settling in for the evening with your favourite book. Or mix DIRTEA Cacao with some hot water and milk for the healthiest hot chocolate around - it can be part of the perfect evening ritual to help you unwind and relax. 


Remember, consistency is key when it comes to experiencing long-term benefits (10) as Reishi's effects build up over time, supporting immune function, stress management, and overall well-being with regular use. 


Reishi Mushroom Dosage


Most people take between 1–3 grams daily to experience its full benefits, which is roughly equivalent to 1 teaspoon in your drink, smoothie or soup of choice.


Reishi comes in various forms and its potency can vary depending on the concentration. Be sure to check the product label for specific dosage recommendations. Plus, if you're new to Reishi, it's a good idea to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it if you need to.



DIRTEA Reishi


DIRTEA's Reishi products are crafted from high-quality sources, ensuring potent, scientifically backed benefits. Whether in teas, coffees, or wellness drinks, DIRTEA Reishi can support immunity, promote calm, and overall well-being. 


DIRTEA's dual-extraction process ensures the maximum retention of bioactive compounds, delivering a product that's as close to nature as possible.



Reishi Summary


In short, Reishi is a powerhouse when it comes to immune support, relaxation, fatigue reduction, and overall well-being. Incorporating it into your wellness routine is easy and can promote long-term health benefits. 


Want in on the benefits? Experience the transformative power of DIRTEA Reishi today.



Reishi: FAQs


How often should I take Reishi?

For the best results, it's best to take Reishi every day. This helps the beneficial compounds build up in your body, supporting your immune system, reducing stress, and promoting overall well-being.


Is Reishi suitable for daily long-term use?

Yes, definitely! Reishi is safe for long-term daily use; in fact, many take it as a lifelong tonic for overall health.


How long does Reishi take to work?

You might start noticing the effects in a few days to weeks, depending on your health, dosage, and how consistently you take it. Some benefits, like relaxation, may kick in quicker, while immune and anti-aging effects can take a bit longer.


What does Reishi taste like?

Reishi has a bitter, earthy flavour with woody undertones, thanks to its high concentration of triterpenes. To balance out some of the bitterness, it’s often mixed into teas, coffees, smoothies and soups. Plus, many herbal tea blends pair Reishi with ingredients like honey, ginger, or cinnamon to add a touch of sweetness.


Are there any negative side effects to taking Reishi?

Reishi is generally safe, but some people may experience mild digestive upset or allergic reactions, especially at higher doses. If you're on blood thinners or have low blood pressure, it’s a good idea to check with a healthcare provider before using Reishi.


Will taking Reishi make me sleepy?

Reishi promotes relaxation and helps reduce stress, but it doesn’t make you feel overly sleepy or drowsy. This makes it ideal for evening use as it allows you to unwind after a busy day, while still allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed. 





References

  1. Wachtel-Galor, S., Yuen, J., Buswell, J.A., Benzie, I.F.F. (2011). Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi), a Medicinal Mushroom. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/

  2. Paterson, R.R.M. (2006). Ganoderma – A Therapeutic Fungal Biofactory. Phytochemistry. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16179193/

  3. Gao, Y., Zhou, S., Huang, M., Xu, A. (2003). Ganoderma lucidum: A Potential for Efficacious Treatment of Type II Diabetes Mellitus. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12576208/

  4. Lin, Z., Zhang, W., Huang, J., et al. (2020). Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum and Its Therapeutic Potentials. Frontiers in Pharmacology. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.00258/full

  5. Zhou, X., Lin, J., Yin, Y., Zhao, J., Sun, X. (2015). Ganoderma lucidum Polysaccharides: Immunomodulation and Potential Anti-Cancer Activity. Frontiers in Pharmacology. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2015.00257/full

  6. Wachtel-Galor, S., et al. (2011). Ganoderma lucidum and its Effects on Sleep and Relaxation. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/

  7. Lin, Z., et al. (2020). Ganoderma lucidum's Role in Nervous System Regulation. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.00258/full

  8. Gao, Y., et al. (2003). Ganoderma lucidum and Blood Sugar Control. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12576208/

  9. Zhou, X., et al. (2015). Ganoderma lucidum's Anti-Aging Potential. Available at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2015.00257/full

  10. Paterson, R.R.M. (2006). Ganoderma – A Therapeutic Fungal Biofactory. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16179193/

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