Reishi
Also known as ganoderma lucidum, lingzhi, mushroom of immortality, red reishi
Key takeaways
- Reishi & Privet formula may improve quality of life in non-small cell lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy (PMID: 32840126).
- Ganoderma spore powder is associated with immunological benefits in post-operative breast and lung cancer patients (PMID: 33405051).
- Reishi supplementation may impact psychological stress and fitness profiles in female college students (PMID: 39241163).
What the research shows
AI-synthesized from 6 peer-reviewed sources · Updated 2025
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a medicinal mushroom traditionally used in Asia for its immune-supporting and therapeutic properties. Current research focuses primarily on its role as an adjunctive therapy in cancer care and its potential effects on cardiovascular risk factors.
By condition
Cancer Support
Moderate
Evidence suggests Reishi may improve quality of life and immunological biomarkers in patients with breast and lung cancer, particularly when used alongside chemotherapy.
Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Weak
Meta-analysis data on its efficacy for cardiovascular risk factors remains inconclusive or limited.
Psychological Stress
Weak
Preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits for psychological stress and fitness parameters in specific populations like female college students.
Effective doses
Specific dose ranges were not provided in the provided abstracts.
Safety & interactions
No specific contraindications or interactions were detailed in the provided abstracts; however, it is typically used as a supportive rather than primary treatment.
Limitations
Research is limited by small sample sizes in RCTs and a lack of definitive conclusions in Cochrane meta-analyses regarding cancer and cardiovascular outcomes.
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How it's sold
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Research evidence
Showing top 10 of 6 sources, sorted by quality
BACKGROUND: Ganoderma lucidum (also known as lingzhi or reishi) is a mushroom that has been consumed for its broad medicinal properties in Asia for over 2000 years. G lucidum is becoming increasingly popular in western countries as a comple…
BACKGROUND: Ganoderma lucidum is a natural medicine that is widely used and recommended by Asian physicians and naturopaths for its supporting effects on immune system. Laboratory research and a handful of preclinical trials have suggested …
BACKGROUND: Ganoderma lucidum is a natural medicine that is widely used and recommended by Asian physicians and naturopaths for its supporting effects on immune system. Laboratory research and a handful of preclinical trials have suggested …
**Deng et al., 2021** | Clin Transl Oncol | Rct Deng Y, Ma J, ... Zhang Q. Dynamic biomarkers indicate the immunological benefits provided by Ganoderma spore powder in post-operative breast and lung cancer patients. Clin Transl Oncol. 2021-…
**Mitra et al., 2024** | Int J Med Mushrooms | Rct Mitra Sudeep, Mitra Mousumi, ... Bandyopadhyay Amit. Efficacy of Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (Agaricomycetes) Supplementation on Psychological Stress and Selectiv…
**Liu et al., 2020** | Integr Cancer Ther | Rct Liu Jie, Mao Jun J, ... Lin Hongsheng. Preliminary Efficacy and Safety of Reishi & Privet Formula on Quality of Life Among Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Random…
Frequently asked questions
What is Reishi and what is it used for?
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a medicinal mushroom traditionally used in Asia for immune support and therapeutic properties. Current research primarily investigates its role as an adjunctive therapy in cancer care and its potential effects on cardiovascular risk factors. It is typically used as a supportive measure rather than a primary treatment.
Does Reishi help with cancer?
There is moderate evidence suggesting Reishi may improve quality of life and immunological biomarkers in patients with breast and lung cancer, particularly when used alongside chemotherapy. For example, it has been associated with immunological benefits in post-operative breast and lung cancer patients. However, it should not replace standard medical treatments.
Can Reishi improve cardiovascular health?
Evidence regarding Reishi's efficacy for cardiovascular risk factors is currently weak. Meta-analysis data remains inconclusive or limited, so research is mixed on its specific benefits for heart health. Consumers should not rely on it as a proven treatment for cardiovascular conditions.
Does Reishi reduce stress or anxiety?
Preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits for psychological stress and fitness parameters in specific populations, such as female college students. However, the evidence strength is weak, and more research is needed to confirm these effects for the general population. It is not a proven treatment for clinical anxiety.
What is the effective dose of Reishi?
Specific dose ranges for Reishi were not provided in the available evidence summaries. Because effective dosing is not clearly defined in the current research, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance. Do not assume a standard dose is safe or effective without professional advice.
Is Reishi safe to take?
While no specific contraindications were detailed in the provided abstracts, Reishi is typically used as a supportive rather than primary treatment. Pregnant individuals, those on medications, or people with specific health conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use. Always prioritize professional medical advice over supplement claims.
Does Reishi interact with other medications?
No drug interactions were documented in the provided evidence summary. However, because it is used as a supportive therapy, individuals on prescribed medications should still consult their healthcare provider. It is never recommended to replace prescribed medication with supplements without medical supervision.
Who should avoid taking Reishi?
Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking prescription medications should consult a healthcare provider before using Reishi. Since it is used as a supportive therapy, it is not intended to replace primary medical treatments. Always seek professional advice to ensure safety based on your specific health profile.