Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum, commonly referred to as lingzhi, mandarin orange mushroom or red-varnished prince mushroom) have long been used in traditional Eastern medicine as powerful health and anti-aging treatments. Reishi is believed to promote longevity, boost immunity and ease fatigue – as a powerful medicinal mushroom rich in beta-glucans, triterpenoids polyphenols amino acids sterols glycerin as well as other nutrients with anti-cancer, immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects.

Reishi mushroom tea offers a soothing effect that can reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. Additionally, it’s an excellent natural sleep aid and may even help alleviate some symptoms associated with fibromyalgia – an inflammatory disorder affecting widespread muscle pain – according to one study where researchers gave Reishi to people suffering from Fibromyalgia; those taking Reishi reported lower depressive symptoms and greater life satisfaction than those not taking Reishi.

Reishi provides another advantage of taking it: It boosts immunity, which helps prevent and treat infections. Research has proven its efficacy against various pathogens including bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. Reishi also acts as an adaptogen by helping both body and mind cope with stress more easily.

Reishi can not only boost immune health but is also thought to provide heart support by lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. Furthermore, it may assist with treating autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease by decreasing inflammation levels.

Reishi can be purchased over-the-counter as an herbal supplement in capsule, tablet, powder and extract form. It is also commonly sold dried mushrooms or as dietary tea and can be found at most health food stores or online retailers that specialize in herbs and supplements.

Since reishi can inhibit blood clotting, you should avoid taking it with medications that slow it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also not consume this herb as its use may hinder their gestation and breastfeeding process. Furthermore, due to its effects on lab tests such as serum tumor marker CA72-4 tests and certain medications it may interfere with or diminish their effectiveness.

Reishi is generally safe when taken in recommended doses by most adults; however, it may cause side effects, including drowsiness, nausea and dizziness; if these occur it is wise to discontinue use. It may also interact with some medications; therefore it is wise to inform your physician of any herbal products you are taking.