Reishi mushroom, also known by its scientific name Ganoderma lucidum and its Chinese name lingzhi, is one of the most widely-known and best-studied of the medicinal mushrooms. Reishi mushroom has been used for thousands of years in traditional Eastern medicine. The ancient cultures that used reishi mushroom in their healing practices held reishi in such high regard that they referred to it as the “mushroom of immortality”.
Of course, there is no known substance that can actually grant us immortality. However, certain things are believed to possess medicinal properties which support our health and may subsequently extend our lifespans. Reishi mushroom is one of those things.
So why is reishi such a big deal, and why have traditional healers sworn by this mushroom for centuries? Here are some of the purported benefits that have earned reishi its “mushroom of immortality” moniker.
Immune Support
Our immune system is what defends our body from succumbing to infectious diseases. Immune system function is typically correlated with age, gradually declining in strength and efficacy over time. However, certain conditions and lifestyle choices can either slow or accelerate the aging of your immune system.
Reishi mushroom has been shown to support the immune system by expressing immunomodulatory effects in multiple immune system mechanisms [1]. This suggests that regular use of reishi just may help to keep your immune system functioning at a more youthful and effective level.
Anti-Cancer
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. It is reasonable to assume that reducing instances and inhibiting the progression of cancer would likely lead to longer lifespans.
A number of studies have shown that reishi mushroom may have anti-cancer properties [2, 3, 4]. Reishi has shown “immunomodulatory, anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic and anti-angiogenic (anti-tumor) effects” in scientific studies that could potentially make it an effective ally in the battle against cancer.
Mental Health Support
Have you ever heard someone joke that stress has taken years off their life? As we know, physical and mental wellness are deeply interrelated; chronic stress can have a range of negative effects on physical health. If you’re experiencing depression and/or anxiety, reishi mushroom might be able to help reduce the symptoms of these conditions [5, 6]. One study found that a group of breast cancer survivors reported “less anxiety and depression and better quality of life” after receiving reishi spore powder [7].
Cosmetic Use
Reishi mushroom may not only help you feel younger, but it could possibly help you to look younger as well. Reishi is used in some anti-aging cosmetic products due to its potential to reduce inflammation, redness and discoloration, while providing hydration that may help to decrease fine lines and wrinkles. The antioxidant properties of reishi may also help protect against sun damage, which is a major culprit of skin aging.
Reishi Mushroom: Supporting A Long, Healthy Life
Though it may not make us immortal, reishi mushroom could possibly play a role in slowing the physical aging process, making us look and feel younger. It seems that reishi can inhibit the deterioration of health in multiple ways and through a number of mechanisms [8] . We have yet to fully comprehend its potential to promote health and longevity, but the research we've gathered so far explains why reishi mushroom has earned the nickname “mushroom of immortality”.
Drinking reishi mushroom tea may just be the next best thing to drinking from the Fountain of Youth - so why not start today?! Enjoy the potential health-promoting benefits of reishi with our Reishi Delight and Reishi-Chaga Boost tea blends.
Cheers to many years of health and happiness ahead!
