Ganoderma contains some of the world’s best-researched and most revered medicinal mushrooms. One such Ganoderma species that stands out in the Appalachians is Hemlock Varnish Shelf (Ganoderma Tsugae). Characterized by a highly polished surface that often appears varnished, this wood rotter often grows during fall on dead hemlock trees in Northeastern North America and has long been utilized by herbalists across this region.

Although our Northeastern reishi species is hemlock varnish shelf, it’s worth keeping an eye out for less hardy golden reishi (Ganoderma curtisii) on hardwoods from Massachusetts to Nebraska as well as yellower lilac reishi (Ganoderma oregense) from Northwestern conifers – as these species provide powerful healing remedies when consumed as tea.

Reishi has long been revered in East Asia as an herb that promotes health and extends lifespan. Reishi is believed to contain antitumor, immunomodulatory, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic and antioxidant properties as well as various other biological effects – many research articles have documented these advantages – however more work needs to be done before humans can reap these rewards.

Studies have demonstrated the neuroprotective benefits of hemlock varnish shelf in animal models, including significant attenuation of D-gal-induced cognitive impairment and pathological neural damage; enhancement of SOD-1, catalase and BDNF activities; decreased concentrations of AGEs as well as expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as 4-HNE; as well as enhanced dendritic branching.

Hemlock varnish shelf tea boasts an earthy and sweet, velvety flavor with an invitingly smooth texture, ideal for sipping alone or mixed into other blends to heighten their flavors. Furthermore, this tea can serve as an ingredient base in alcohol-based extracts, tinctures, capsules and tablets to aid healing processes.

To create a tea from hemlock varnish shelf mushrooms, bring water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan and add dried pieces of mushroom. Simmer for approximately two hours, strain out and serve warm; honey can also be added for sweetening purposes if desired. Be mindful when taking hemlock varnish shelf tea as it may cause stomach upset or allergic reactions in certain individuals. For this reason, it is advisable to start out slowly when trying the tea for the first time. For safety’s sake, only try small quantities at first. Do not consume hemlock varnish shelf tea while on blood-thinning medications as this could increase bleeding times. If in doubt about its safety for you, consult with a healthcare provider. Before taking any new medicine or herbal remedy for the first time, consult with your healthcare provider first. Pregnant and breastfeeding women must speak with their healthcare provider prior to starting any medications or supplements that might affect them negatively; should any adverse side-effects arise it is important that these be reported immediately and contacted immediately by healthcare providers.