Best Reishi Mushroom Product 2021: Shopping Guide &#038; Review

£42.00

The Mikei Red Reishi standard uses Mayuzumi’s patented Reishi strain, which has been cultivated using Mayuzumi’s “natural wood log” technique. Naturally grown without using chemicals or pesticides and harvested at peak maturity to maximize phytonutrient levels. This brand uses only the fruiting body of mature red Reishi for extraction.

Subsequently to this, these capsules are free of myceliated rice and bulk fillers. Extracted only using hot-water to a potent 16.6:1 ratio (250 mg of red Reishi extract per capsule). Does not contain soy, gluten, or animal products. And are encapsulated in a 100% vegetable capsule.

Best Reishi Mushroom Capsules Supplement

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£19.90

Reishi (ganoderma lucidum) has its home in Asia, where the tradition around the Reishi and all the medicinal mushrooms was born. For this reason, we chose a Reishi extract from China which, before being incapsulated, is tested for heavy metal, aluminum and microbiological contamination. Of course, this product is also non-GMO. It is an extract (4:1), so the content of one capsule corresponds to 2000 mg of dried Reishi.

Also note that Reishi is one of the most versatile and best-known mushrooms. And why is that? Reishi is rich in a number of valuable compounds, including vitamins, minerals but particularly polysaccharides, beta-glucans and triterpenes

Best Reishi Mushroom Overall Suplement

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£19.99

These Reishi mushroom capsules are made right here in the UK. These capsules are high potency, complete mushroom supplement containing an equal mix of six different mushrooms: Chaga, Cordyceps, Shiitake, Reishi, Lion’s mane and Maitake. Mushroom Complex 6 contains an average of 10% beta glucans. Only the most complex part of the mushroom is used, the mushroom body.

It is 100% vegan and, as it happens with all this manufacturer’s products, the capsule contains only pure ingredients. Just the way nature intended, nothing else. This brand believes in clean nutrition, which is why you won’t find any nasty stuff in this product.

Sevenhills Wholefoods Organic Reishi Mushroom Powder 250g

Best Reishi Mushroom Powder

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£14.99

This brand’s Reishi mushroom powder is sourced from organic producers. Organic means working with nature and is better for the environment. Lower levels of pesticides, no manufactured herbicides or artificial fertilisers and more environmentally sustainable management of the land. It has a long and storied history of medicinal use in Far-Eastern culture and is traditionally consumed for the wide array of conditions it can help support.

Also, this product is bitter in taste, and it is widely consumed as a tea rather than a culinary mushroom. 100% pure with nothing added, allergen free, certified organic by the Soil Association, environmentally sustainable practices employed, GMO free, non-irradiated, tested for heavy metals and mycotoxins. Registered with the Vegan Society.

Four Sigmatic Mushroom Cacao Mix with Reishi 10 Packets

Best Reishi Drink

Four Sigmatic Mushroom Cacao Mix with Reishi 10 Packets

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£11.01

Because of its bitter taste, the Reishi mushroom is often added to drinks. Four Sigmatic has made it easier for you, creating a powerful-yet-tasty blend that will dissolve in hot water in no time. It contains Reishi powder and cacao to give flavour to the beverage. This is a fantastic drink to naturally support your sleep cycles and help you relax at the end of the day.

In addition, the main active ingredient is pure log-grown Reishi mushroom! Each packet contains 500 mg of red Reishi extract with at least 30 % polysaccharides (more than 15 percent beta-glucans) and 2 % triterpenes. No starch, sugars, or any fillers at all.

Shopping Guide: Everything You Should Know About Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi is an age-old mushroom used for its therapeutic properties. Responsible consumption is the key to obtaining positive results. What part of the fungus is used to produce the supplements? What are its benefits and contraindications? We have answered the most frequently asked questions regarding Reishi in the following section.

Because of its bitter taste, you may want to mix it with a liquid before consumption.
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What is the Reishi mushroom exactly?

Shiny looking, with a woody texture and reddish colour, the Reishi is a mushroom native to Japan, China, and other Asian countries. Its scientific name is Ganoderma lucidum, and it has been used in Oriental medicine for millennia to treat various conditions, from hepatitis and leukopenia (low white blood cell count) to respiratory problems (, ).

Called the fruiting body, the above-ground part of the fungus is the most commonly used to make supplements. However, the mycelium – the part beneath the ground – also has medicinal properties. Reishi supplements are marketed in the form of powdered extract and capsules. In China, this mushroom is known as Ling Zhi (1).

What are the primary active compounds of Reishi mushrooms?

Triterpenoids and polysaccharides are the active compounds responsible for the therapeutic properties of this fungus. The main triterpenoids are ganoderic and lucidenic acids, while the most important polysaccharides are the beta-glucans. We have summed up the properties of these active ingredients in the following table (, ):

Properties of triterpenoids	Properties of polysaccharides
Antiallergic. Hepatoprotective. Anti-inflammatory. Cholesterol-lowering. Anti-tumour. Antioxidant. Antihypertensive. Antithrombotic. Antiviral.	Immunostimulant. Anti-inflammatory. Anti-tumour. Prebiotic. Antioxidant. Glucose-lowering.

What are the health benefits of Reishi mushrooms?

In the section below, we will explain how their therapeutic properties can help improve your health, prevent illnesses, and contribute to the treatment of various pathologies. The most notable benefits of Ganoderma lucidum are:

They strengthen your immunity (immunostimulant): Reishi polysaccharides promote the proliferation of macrophages, natural killer cells, and B and T lymphocytes, among other immune cells. This helps your body defend itself against various pathogens (1, 4).
They inhibit tumour development (anti-tumour): Both triterpenoids and polysaccharides contribute to preventing tumour development by inducing apoptosis (death) of mutated cells and by preventing the growth of new blood vessels that feed tumours (1, 3, 5).
They can be used to complement cancer treatment: In addition to boosting immunity, Reishi supplements may prevent the migration of cancer cells and angiogenesis (new blood vessels that allow a tumour to grow). As a result, the growth and invasiveness of a tumour could be reduced (6).
They are rich in antioxidants: Polysaccharides and triterpenoids exhibit antioxidant activity and help block free radicals, oxidant molecules that cause diseases (cardiac, metabolic, neurodegenerative, cancer) and aging (1, 7, 8).
They have anti-inflammatory properties: Decreasing inflammation is beneficial for inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), gout, and arthritis. Their anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to preventing other pathologies, such as type II diabetes and atherosclerosis (9, 10).
They mitigate allergy symptoms (antihistamine): Reishi triterpenoids help relieve histamine-mediated allergic reactions. You can also use these supplements to combat allergic asthma (11, 12).
They act as hepatoprotectors: Ganoderma lucidum extract protects the liver from toxins such as carbon tetrachloride and ethanol (alcohol). In traditional Oriental medicine, Reishi is used to treat hepatitis and cirrhosis (1, 13).
They are natural prebiotics: Reishi’s beta-glucans are prebiotics that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon. Thanks to these prebiotic properties, Ganoderma lucidum helps regulate intestinal function and improves immunity (14).
They help limit viral activity: Reishi is a natural supplement that can inhibit the replication of certain viruses – including the herpes simplex virus (1 and 2), hepatitis B virus, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Triterpenoids are responsible for the antiviral properties of this fungus (1, 15).
Reishi mushrooms reduce blood cholesterol (hypocholesterolemic): The Ganoderma lucidum extract decreases total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood (14, 16).
They contribute to maintaining blood pressure within the standard range (antihypertensive): Reishi mushrooms can lower blood pressure thanks to the triterpenoids and peptides they contain (17).
They prevent the formation of blood clots (antithrombotic): A blood clot can lead to a heart attack, deep vein thrombosis, or stroke. Reishi prevents platelets from clumping together and forming these thrombi (18).
They decrease blood glucose levels (hypoglycemic): The polysaccharides in the Reishi fruiting body reduce blood glucose and may benefit individuals with diabetes (1).

Thanks to its prebiotic properties, Ganoderma lucidum helps regulate intestinal function and improves immunity.
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What types of Reishi supplements are there?

Because of its woody texture and powerful bitter taste, the Ganoderma lucidum isn’t consumed as food. Some people like to purchase dried Reishi slices to prepare infusions, but the active ingredients aren’t as concentrated. You can find supplements in the form of:

Powder: Triterpenoids, polysaccharides, and peptides of the fungus are concentrated to obtain a powdered extract. Sometimes, the Reishi mushroom is dried and ground to a very fine powder. It has a bitter taste and must be mixed with a liquid before consumption.
Capsules: Made of animal gelatine or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (plant cellulose), they contain powdered Reishi extract. Each capsule can provide between 300 and 500 milligrams of Ganoderma lucidum. Their taste is neutral.

	Reishi powder	Reishi capsules
Consumption form	You can mix it with a cold or hot beverage (water, juice, coffee, soup).	You should swallow them with water.
Taste	Bitter, intense	Neutral
Recommended length of use	1 month	3 months
Recommended daily dosage	1 to 5 grams	1 to 3 units
Price per serving	Between 0.30 and 0.70 pounds	Between 0.25 and 0.65 pounds

When are Reishi supplements helpful?

Healthy people can take these dietary products to boost their immunity. However, Reishi supplements can also complement the treatment of various conditions, provided that your physician allows you. They are helpful in case of:

Weakened immune system as a result of prolonged severe stress or illness;
Allergies;
Allergic asthma;
Metabolic syndrome – the co-occurrence of type II diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and dyslipidemias (high cholesterol, high triglycerides);
Herpes simplex virus, type 1 and 2;
Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis);
Inflammatory diseases: ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, gout;
Chronic hepatitis caused by the hepatitis B virus.

Are Reishi mushrooms used to treat cancer?

The Ganoderma lucidum – or any other supplement, for that matter – cannot cure cancer. Reishi products can be a natural complement to the allopathic treatment of cancer because they boost immunity and, according to various studies, inhibit the growth and spread of tumours. In any case, your medical oncologist must prescribe Reishi for you to consume it (, , ).

What can Ganoderma lucidum offer to fight fibromyalgia?

The benefits of Reishi mushrooms for fibromyalgia have been investigated for years now. Many people who suffer from this condition and take Ganoderma lucidum have experienced reduced pain, improved sleep quality, and increased overall well-being. Experts believe that these effects may be the result of the adaptogenic properties of the fungus (, ).

Reishi mushrooms have numerous pharmacological properties, such as antioxidant, immunostimulant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, cholesterol-lowering, and antihistaminic effects.
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What are the side effects of Reishi?

Reishi capsules are safe for healthy adults, provided that they are consumed responsibly. This fungus can cause stomach discomfort, but it is a mild adverse effect that usually disappears once the body gets used to it. Cases of severe liver toxicity linked to the intake of Reishi powder extract were reported (, ).

Do Reishi mushrooms have contraindications?

Like most supplements, Reishi products have certain contraindications. Taking Ganoderma lucidum during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and childhood it is not recommended as no studies have confirmed its safety in these life stages. In addition, Reishi mushrooms are contraindicated in the following situations:

Consumption of immunosuppressant drugs. Reishi compounds may decrease the effectiveness of these treatments.
Intake of blood-thinning medication, such as warfarin. Ganoderma lucidum could increase the risk of bleeding.
Individuals who are about to undergo surgery, as Reishi can increase bleeding.
Consumption of antihypertensive drugs. The combination of Ganoderma lucidum with antihypertensive drugs could lower blood pressure below normal values.
Diabetic individuals who take oral glucose-lowering medication or insulin. The effect of the drug added to the hypoglycemic activity of Reishi mushrooms could lead to hypoglycemia (blood glucose levels below normal).

How can I consume Reishi responsibly?

You should never exceed the recommended daily dosage of Reishi (1 to 5 grams of powder and 1 to 3 capsules) or extend the consumption for a period of time longer than indicated by your physician or the manufacturer. This is particularly important in the case of Ganoderma lucidum powder supplements, as they can produce severe liver toxicity.

Ground Reishi and the powdered extract should not be taken for more than one month consecutively, while the capsules can be taken for up to three months. Reishi mushrooms are a short-term supplement used to improve a specific aspect of health or to help treat a condition.

Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of TasmaniaIn Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) for Cancer Treatment

“It remains uncertain whether G. lucidum helps prolong long-term cancer survival. However, G. lucidum could be administered as an alternative adjunct to conventional treatment in consideration of its potential of enhancing tumour response and stimulating host immunity.”

Buyer’s Guide

You now have all the information you need to consume Ganoderma lucidum supplements responsibly. In the final section of our article, we want to delve deeper into the key shopping criteria to take into account when you’re looking for the right Reishi product. They are your best tools to make a successful purchase.

Form of Presentation
Added Ingredients
Allergens
Organic Origin
Suitability for Vegan Diets

Form of Presentation

Most people should opt for Reishi capsules rather than powder supplements for three main reasons. First of all, the capsules are generally safer for your health; in addition, their taste is almost neutral, and they are easy to ingest. The mushroom powder has a peculiar and bitter taste, is associated with more side effects, and must be mixed with a liquid before being consumed.

You should never exceed the recommended daily dosage of Reishi (1 to 5 grams of powder and 1 to 3 capsules).
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Added Ingredients

You may have noticed that many Reishi supplements are enriched with vitamin C and zinc, both of which are vital micronutrients for immune function. You can also find products with Ganoderma lucidum and acerola, the latter being an excellent natural source of vitamin C. In addition, Reishi mushrooms are often combined with shiitake and maitake mushrooms, creating a powerful prebiotic blend.

Allergens

While Reishi is recommended for treating allergies, this doesn’t mean that its supplements are always allergen-free. Any allergy-prone individual should make sure that the product is suitable for them by reading the ingredient list. Although Ganoderma lucidum is gluten-free, celiac individuals should look for the seal of approval that guarantees that the supplement doesn’t contain this allergen.

Organic Origin

It is essential that you purchase organic Reishi mushrooms to avoid jeopardizing your health. Ganoderma lucidum must be grown under strict conditions that guarantee that it is free of agrochemicals and, most importantly, that it isn’t contaminated with other fungi that can grow on its surface and be harmful to human health.

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Suitability for Vegan Diets

Vegan individuals can consume Reishi powder without any problem. However, the capsules are sometimes made from animal gelatine, in which case they are not suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (plant cellulose) is the material used to produce capsules suitable for vegans. Make sure the packaging clearly states that the product is vegan-friendly.