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Ganoderma lingzhi

Reishi

Research reviewed: up until 08/2023

Reishi (Ganoderma lingzhi) is a dietary supplement with 18 published peer-reviewed studies involving 1,014 participants, researched for Immune system, Cognitive health/Neuroprotective effects, Fatigue and 3 more areas.

18
Studies
1,014
Participants
2003–2023
Research Span

Evidence at a Glance

Strength is scored by study design, sample size, study type, and outcomes

Overall: Very Strong Evidence

Immune system

Strong
5 studies 4 of 5 positive 495 participants 4 human

Cognitive health/Neuroprotective effects

Moderate
4 studies 1 of 4 positive 0 participants 2 human

Fatigue

Strong
3 studies 2 of 3 positive 219 participants

Liver health

Moderate
3 studies 2 of 3 positive 101 participants

UTI

Weak
2 studies 0 of 2 positive 138 participants

Anti-viral

Moderate
1 study 0 of 1 positive 61 participants

Research Visualised

Visual breakdown of the clinical data.

Study Quality Breakdown

What types of studies were conducted

10/18
Randomised
9/18
Double-Blind
6/18
Placebo-Controlled

Participants Per Study

Larger samples = more reliable results

Study 1 (2010)
198
Study 2 (2023)
135
Study 3 (2020)
120
Study 4 (2003)
30
Study 1 (2014)
12
Study 1 (2020)
0
Study 1 (2021)
0
Study 1 (2020)
0

Research Timeline

When the studies were published

1
2003
1
2005
2
2008
1
2010
2
2012
2
2014
1
2015
2
2017
1
2018
3
2020
1
2021
1
2023

All Studies

Detailed breakdown of each trial. Click to expand.

Immune system

1

To evaluate the effects of reishi mushroom mycelia in patients with colorectal adenomas, which are tumours that develop in the lining of the colon or rectum.

2010 198 participants 12 months 1.5 g/day of reishi mushroom mycelia (6 x 0.25 g capsules, t...
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of reishi mushroom mycelia in patients with colorectal adenomas, which are tumours that develop in the lining of the colon or rectum.

Dose

1.5 g/day of reishi mushroom mycelia (6 x 0.25 g capsules, three capsules twice daily)

Participants

198 patients with colorectal adenomas with an average age of 64 years

Duration

12 months

Results

The study found an association between reishi supplementation and a significant decrease in the number and total size of adenomas, which are abnormal growths that can occur in various tissues, including the colon. A lower number of adenomas is considered a positive outcome as it indicates a reduced risk of cancer development or progression. Participants taking reishi experienced a 52% reduction in the number of adenomas, while the control group only experienced a 2% decrease. These findings suggest that reishi mushroom supplements may have potential benefits in preventing or managing adenomas and reducing the risk of cancer.

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2

To investigate the effects of β-glucan derived from reishi mushrooms in healthy adults. β-glucan is a complex carbohydrate that possesses properties that can assist in regulating and boosting the immune system.

2023 135 participants 84 days 200 mg/day of reishi β-glucan or placebo
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Purpose

To investigate the effects of β-glucan derived from reishi mushrooms in healthy adults. β-glucan is a complex carbohydrate that possesses properties that can assist in regulating and boosting the immune system.

Dose

200 mg/day of reishi β-glucan or placebo

Participants

135 healthy adults, aged 18-55 years

Duration

84 days

Results

Researchers found an association between reishi β-glucan treatment and significant increases in various antibodies and immune cells. These results indicate a strengthened immune defence, helping to protect the body against infections and diseases. Additionally, the researchers observed a notable 83.1% increase in NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity in the intervention group compared to the placebo. An increase in NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity means that the natural killer (NK) cells in the immune system are more effective at identifying and destroying abnormal or infected cells. These findings suggest that reishi β-glucan may have a positive impact on the immune system.

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3

To assess the effects of reishi mushroom in patients with postoperative lung and breast cancer.

2020 120 participants 6 weeks 4000 mg/day of reishi mushroom (2 x 2000 mg spore powder) or...
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Positive

Study Type

Randomised, double-blind, controlled, clinical trial

Purpose

To assess the effects of reishi mushroom in patients with postoperative lung and breast cancer.

Dose

4000 mg/day of reishi mushroom (2 x 2000 mg spore powder) or placebo

Participants

120 breast and lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, aged 37-92 years.

Duration

6 weeks

Results

Researchers observed significant increases in immune response molecules - IL-2 (Interleukin-2) and IL-12 (Interleukin-12) - after reishi supplementation and chemotherapy. An increase in IL-2 and IL-12 levels can enhance the immune response by promoting the activation, proliferation, and coordination of various immune cells. This can be beneficial in fighting infections, supporting cancer immunotherapy, and maintaining immune system balance. The researchers also observed a notable decrease in immune-suppressive molecules. Overall, the results indicate that reishi mushroom combined with chemotherapy may positively impact the immune system by boosting beneficial immune cells and reducing those that hinder immune function. With the exception of slight discomfort (such as a dry mouth), no serious adverse effects were observed during the study.

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4

To investigate the effects of the polysaccharides extracted from reishi mushroom on the immune function in patients with advanced-stage cancer.

2003 30 participants 12 weeks 1800 mg/day of reishi mushroom extract (3 x 600 mg capsules ...
Human Study Positive

Study Type

Single-arm, clinical trial (uncontrolled)

Purpose

To investigate the effects of the polysaccharides extracted from reishi mushroom on the immune function in patients with advanced-stage cancer.

Dose

1800 mg/day of reishi mushroom extract (3 x 600 mg capsules with 25% polysaccharides)

Participants

30 patients with advanced-stage cancer, aged 31-77 years

Duration

12 weeks

Results

Researchers observed significant increases in the levels of cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IFN-g) after reishi supplementation. Cytokines are small proteins that play essential roles in the body’s immune system. Higher levels of these cytokines strengthen the immune system, enhancing the body's ability to fight infections, regulate inflammation, and support overall immune system functioning. The researchers also observed a notable rise in a type of immune cell called CD56+ cells, which are known to play a role in fighting infections and cancer. Natural killer (NK) cells also became more active, which are specialised in killing harmful cells. These findings suggest that reishi mushroom treatment may have beneficial effects on the immune system and could potentially enhance the body's ability to defend against diseases.

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1

To assess the protective effects of reishi polysaccharides against lymphocyte suppression caused by plasma from lung cancer patients. Lymphocyte suppression refers to a condition where the body's immune cells, known as lymphocytes, are decreased in their numbers or activity, which can weaken the immune system's ability to fight off infections and diseases.

2014 12 participants 0.2, 0.8, 3.2, and 12.8 micrograms/mL
In Vitro Mixed

Study Type

Cellular study (in-vitro)

Purpose

To assess the protective effects of reishi polysaccharides against lymphocyte suppression caused by plasma from lung cancer patients. Lymphocyte suppression refers to a condition where the body's immune cells, known as lymphocytes, are decreased in their numbers or activity, which can weaken the immune system's ability to fight off infections and diseases.

Dose

0.2, 0.8, 3.2, and 12.8 micrograms/mL

Participants

Blood was collected from 12 lung cancer patients with an average age of 57 years.

Results

Blood plasma (the liquid part of blood) from patients with lung cancer was found to have a suppressing effect on lymphocyte proliferation (lymphocyte multiplication), which weakens the immune system. Additionally, the plasma showed reduced activity of certain proteins that are crucial for the immune system to fight cancer cells effectively.However, these effects were partially or fully reversed after the addition of reishi polysaccharides. These findings suggest that reishi polysaccharides may help counteract the immune suppressive effects in lung cancer patients.

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Cognitive health/Neuroprotective effects

1

To explore the anti-neuroinflammatory activities of bioactive compounds from medicinal mushrooms, including reishi in various laboratory studies and animal studies.

2020
Human Study Mixed

Study Type

Review

Purpose

To explore the anti-neuroinflammatory activities of bioactive compounds from medicinal mushrooms, including reishi in various laboratory studies and animal studies.

Results

Various studies have shown that reishi mushroom extracts have anti-neuroinflammatory properties, meaning that they have properties that counteract inflammation in the brain and nervous system. Neuroinflammation plays a major role in Alzheimer's Disease, as well as Parkinson's Disease, brain ischemia, epilepsy and depression. A study revealed that reishi extracts reduced levels of IL-8 and TNF-α, which are small proteins called cytokines that play a role in the immune response and inflammation within the hippocampus. The hippocampus is a region of the brain that is important for learning and memory, and is often affected in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. In the context of neuroinflammation, IL-8 and TNF-α can contribute to damage and degeneration of brain cells. Reduced levels of these cytokines suggests that the reishi extract has anti-inflammatory effects in the brain. Another study found that reishi spore powder and lion’s mane extract had protective effects on neurons and the broader nervous system, (“neuroprotective” effects) and reduced neuronal apoptosis (reduced brain cell death) in animal models of epilepsy.

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1

To evaluate the effects of self-medication with reishi on the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement control. Parkinson's disease can also cause non-motor symptoms, including cognitive changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal issues.

2021 3 months 300 mg/day of reishi
Human Study Mixed

Study Type

Single case study

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of self-medication with reishi on the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement control. Parkinson's disease can also cause non-motor symptoms, including cognitive changes, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal issues.

Dose

300 mg/day of reishi

Duration

3 months

Results

The patient reported an increase in mindfulness from “moderate” at the start of the study to “high” after 3 months of self-medication with reishi. Mindfulness is a mental state characterised by heightened awareness of the present moment, an open and non-judgmental attitude, and a focus on one's thoughts, sensations, and surroundings. In the context of Parkinson's disease, high mindfulness could imply that these patients are better able to cultivate and sustain these qualities, which may have positive effects on their overall well-being and symptom management. The patient also reported moderate self-compassion scores throughout the study, with high scores for self-kindness, which can be an important aspect of coping with Parkinson's disease. Moreover, the patient's satisfaction with the treatment was rated with scores of 60% (Effectiveness), 100% (Convenience) and 85% (Overall Satisfaction). The patient did not report any side effects of the treatment. Motor symptoms remained stable, with no extreme changes in quality of life. These positive changes in the patient's affective behaviour and overall treatment satisfaction may suggest potential benefits of reishi supplementation for cognitive health.

How They Measured It

Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease were assessed using self-administered questionnaires which measure motor and behavioural aspects of the disease, quality-of-life, self-compassion, positive emotions, and multiple aspects of emotional dysregulation such as nonacceptance of emotional responses, difficulties engaging in goal-directed behaviour, impulse control difficulties, lack of emotional awareness, limited access to emotion regulation strategies, and lack of emotional clarity.

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1

To investigate the effects of reishi triterpenoids (organic compounds found in reishi) on cognitive impairment in an Alzheimer's mice model.

2020 60 days Animal study: 0.35 and 1.40 mg/kg of reishi triterpenoids or...
Animal Study Positive

Study Type

Cellular and animal study

Purpose

To investigate the effects of reishi triterpenoids (organic compounds found in reishi) on cognitive impairment in an Alzheimer's mice model.

Dose

Animal study: 0.35 and 1.40 mg/kg of reishi triterpenoids or controls Cellular study: 30 and 300 μmol/L of reishi triterpenoids or control

Duration

60 days

Results

In the animal experiment, the results found that the administration of reishi triterpenoids reduced cognitive impairment and improved spatial learning in mice. Spatial learning refers to the process through which an organism acquires a mental representation of its environment. In the cellular experiment, significant hippocampal damage was observed in mice with Alzheimer’s disease, however reishi triterpenoids mitigated this damage by inhibiting apoptosis, the process of cell death. Inhibiting the process of cell death can help protect neurons and prevent their premature death, thereby preserving brain function and memory. Additionally, reishi triterpenoids restored the levels of antioxidative proteins and deactivated the ROCK signalling pathway, which is involved in various cellular processes, including neuroinflammation, often observed in Alzheimer's disease. By deactivating this pathway, it is possible to reduce inflammation and cellular stress, contributing to the overall reduction of neurodegenerative processes and cognitive decline. Overall, the results suggest that reishi triterpenoids have the potential to improve cognitive impairment, reduce neuronal damage, and inhibit the process of cell death in the brain and cells of mice with Alzheimer’s disease.

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1

To investigate the neuroprotective effects of reishi polysaccharides against oxidative stress-induced brain cell death (neuronal apoptosis). Oxidative stress is a state of imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (harmful molecules) and the body's ability to counteract their harmful effects. When cells are exposed to oxidative stress, they undergo cell death (apoptosis), which can lead to tissue damage and disease. Many studies have found that Alzheimer's disease is associated with brain cell death (neuronal apoptosis), contributing to the cognitive and memory problems seen in Alzheimer's patients.

2017 0.5 g, 2 g, or 5 g of reishi per 100 mL solution
In Vitro Mixed

Study Type

Cellular study

Purpose

To investigate the neuroprotective effects of reishi polysaccharides against oxidative stress-induced brain cell death (neuronal apoptosis). Oxidative stress is a state of imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (harmful molecules) and the body's ability to counteract their harmful effects. When cells are exposed to oxidative stress, they undergo cell death (apoptosis), which can lead to tissue damage and disease. Many studies have found that Alzheimer's disease is associated with brain cell death (neuronal apoptosis), contributing to the cognitive and memory problems seen in Alzheimer's patients.

Dose

0.5 g, 2 g, or 5 g of reishi per 100 mL solution

Results

Reishi polysaccharides were found to inhibit cell death (apoptosis) in cerebellar granule cells (neurons located in a part of the brain called the cerebellum) that were exposed to hydrogen peroxide, a common trigger of oxidative stress. Treatment with reishi polysaccharides reduced the activity (the expression) of proteins linked to cell death. Reishi polysaccharides also promoted the production of the Bcl-2 protein, which prevents cell death (a so-called “an anti-apoptotic” protein). The findings provide new insights into the neuroprotective mechanisms of reishi and support its potential use in treating neurodegenerative diseases involving oxidative stress.

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Fatigue

1

To assess the effects of reishi polysaccharide extract on patients with a condition called neurasthenia, which is characterised by chronic fatigue, mental and physical exhaustion, and various symptoms associated with prolonged stress and strain.

2005 123 participants 8 weeks 1800 mg/day of reishi mushroom extract (3 x 600 mg capsules,...
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Purpose

To assess the effects of reishi polysaccharide extract on patients with a condition called neurasthenia, which is characterised by chronic fatigue, mental and physical exhaustion, and various symptoms associated with prolonged stress and strain.

Dose

1800 mg/day of reishi mushroom extract (3 x 600 mg capsules, with 25% (wt/wt) crude polysaccharides

Participants

123 patients with neurasthenia, aged 18-65 years

Duration

8 weeks

Results

The study found an association between 8 weeks of reishi mushroom extract supplementation and a lower sense of fatigue (28.3% reduction) and lower scores in the Clinical Global Impression severity score (15.5% reduction) from baseline. Lower scores in the Clinical Global Impression indicate that the participants' overall condition or severity of fatigue has improved. In contrast, the reductions in the placebo group were less significant: 4.9% and 20.1%, respectively. The researchers also observed that the sense of well-being score at day 56 increased by 38.7% in the reishi-treated group compared to the 29.7% increase in the placebo group. These findings suggest that reishi treatment may be effective in improving the sense of well-being and reducing fatigue in neurasthenic patients.

How They Measured It

The severity and improvements in the health condition under study (neurasthenia) were assessed using the Clinical Global Impression scale, which measures symptom severity, treatment response and the efficacy of treatments. Well-being and fatigue were assessed using a self-reported rating scale which measures subjective sense of well-being and the sense of fatigue.

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2

To evaluate the effects of reishi spore powder on fatigue and overall quality of life in patients with breast cancer undergoing endocrine therapy. Reishi spore powder is a concentrated form of bioactive compounds derived from the spores of Reishi mushrooms.

2012 48 participants 4 weeks 3000 mg of reishi powder (3 x 1000 mg spore powder) or place...
Human Study RCT Positive

Study Type

Randomised controlled pilot study

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of reishi spore powder on fatigue and overall quality of life in patients with breast cancer undergoing endocrine therapy. Reishi spore powder is a concentrated form of bioactive compounds derived from the spores of Reishi mushrooms.

Dose

3000 mg of reishi powder (3 x 1000 mg spore powder) or placebo

Participants

48 breast cancer patients with cancer-related fatigue with an average age of 52 years

Duration

4 weeks

Results

The study found an association between reishi powder supplementation and significant improvements in physical well-being and fatigue. Patients treated with reishi reported reduced levels of anxiety and depression, along with an enhanced quality of life, including improvements in sleep and appetite. The researchers also observed that the immune markers associated with cancer-related fatigue were notably lower, and no serious adverse effects were observed throughout the study. This pilot study suggests that reishi powder may have positive effects on cancer-related fatigue and quality of life in breast cancer patients undergoing endocrine therapy, without significant adverse effects.

How They Measured It

Fatigue and quality of life were assessed using self-reported questionnaires, which assess fatigue, anxiety, depression and quality of life in patients undergoing cancer therapy. Blood samples were also collected during, before, and after treatment to determine the concentrations of fatigue markers.

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3

To compare the effects between reishi mushroom and carob tree on physical fitness in patients suffering from fibromyalgia, a chronic disorder characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in specific areas of the body.

2015 48 participants 6 weeks 6 g/day of reishi mushroom or 6 g/day of carob tree extract
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Mixed

Study Type

Randomised, double-blinded, clinical trial (uncontrolled)

Purpose

To compare the effects between reishi mushroom and carob tree on physical fitness in patients suffering from fibromyalgia, a chronic disorder characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in specific areas of the body.

Dose

6 g/day of reishi mushroom or 6 g/day of carob tree extract

Participants

48 women with fibromyalgia with an average age of 55 years

Duration

6 weeks

Results

The study found that treatment of 6g/day of reishi mushroom for 6 weeks is associated with improved physical fitness in women suffering from fibromyalgia. Specifically, the researchers observed improvements in aerobic endurance (stamina), walking speed, and lower limb flexibility after reishi mushroom treatment. On the other hand, no association was observed between carob tree extract and improvements on physical fitness.

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Liver health

1

To assess the antioxidative and liver-protective effects of reishi in volunteers with mild liver dysfunction.

2017 39 participants 6 months 225 mg/day of reishi enriched with triterpenoids and polysac...
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study

Purpose

To assess the antioxidative and liver-protective effects of reishi in volunteers with mild liver dysfunction.

Dose

225 mg/day of reishi enriched with triterpenoids and polysaccharide peptides (1 x 225 mg capsules, after lunch or dinner) or placebo. Triterpenoids and polysaccharide peptides are natural compounds found in Reishi mushrooms that have potential health benefits, with triterpenoids contributing to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while polysaccharide peptides may support immune function.

Participants

39 volunteers with mild liver dysfunction, aged 40-54 years

Duration

6 months

Results

The study found a significant association between reishi supplementation and a reduction in the levels of various oxidative stress markers linked to premature ageing and cellular damage. Oxidative stress markers are indicators used to assess the level of cellular damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Researchers also observed an increase in the levels of various anti-oxidative enzymes that help suppress the activity of free radicals. Antioxidants help neutralise these free radicals to safeguard our health. After reishi supplementation, there was an improvement in the structure and form of the liver, as well as a normalisation of liver damage. Overall, these findings suggest that reishi may possess antioxidative, anti-aging, and liver-protective effects by counteracting the excessive production of free radicals and safeguarding cells against damage.

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1

To investigate the beneficial effects of reishi on a wide range of cardiovascular and metabolic parameters in patients with elevated blood pressure and/or cholesterol.

2012 25 participants 12 weeks 1.44 g/day of reishi extract (4 x 360 mg capsules, two capsu...
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Mixed

Study Type

Randomised, double-blind, cross-over clinical trial

Purpose

To investigate the beneficial effects of reishi on a wide range of cardiovascular and metabolic parameters in patients with elevated blood pressure and/or cholesterol.

Dose

1.44 g/day of reishi extract (4 x 360 mg capsules, two capsules twice daily) or placebo

Participants

25 patients with high blood pressure and/or abnormal levels of lipids (fats) in the bloodstream, particularly elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.

Duration

12 weeks

Results

The researchers observed an 8% decrease in triglycerides and a 24% increase in HDL-cholesterol (“good” cholesterol) following reishi supplementation during the first treatment period, whereas these changes were not observed in the placebo group. High triglycerides are considered a risk factor for various health conditions, while low HDL-cholesterol may indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. Therefore, the decrease in triglycerides and increase in HDL-cholesterol indicate a positive impact on lipid profile and cardiovascular health. Both the reishi and placebo treatments were well tolerated, and no adverse effects in the laboratory safety parameters were detected.

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2

To investigate the antioxidant effect of reishi polysaccharide peptide against atherosclerosis, the thickening or hardening of the arteries, in patients with angina. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease, often described as squeezing, pressure, heaviness, tightness or pain in the chest.

2018 37 participants 90 days 750 mg/day of reishi polysaccharide peptide (3 x 250 mg free...
Human Study Positive

Study Type

Single-blinded, quasi experimental trial (uncontrolled)

Purpose

To investigate the antioxidant effect of reishi polysaccharide peptide against atherosclerosis, the thickening or hardening of the arteries, in patients with angina. Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease, often described as squeezing, pressure, heaviness, tightness or pain in the chest.

Dose

750 mg/day of reishi polysaccharide peptide (3 x 250 mg freeze dried preparations)

Participants

37 high risk and 34 stable angina patients (stable angina is a form of chest pain that occurs during physical or emotional stress, while high-risk angina is more severe, unpredictable, and associated with a higher risk of complications)

Duration

90 days

Results

The study found an association between reishi polysaccharide supplementation and a significant increase in levels of superoxide dismutase (an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the antioxidant defence system of cells) in patients with stable angina patients, but not in high-risk angina patients. Additionally, the researchers observed a significant decrease in malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress that can cause damage to the cells. Higher superoxide dismutase activity and lower malondialdehyde levels suggest that the body's antioxidant defences are more effectively neutralising harmful substances (free radicals) and preventing damage. Furthermore, the researchers observed a significant reduction in circulating endothelial cells counts in both patient groups. Circulating endothelial cells are a type of cell that originates from the inner lining (endothelium) of blood vessels. The reduction in circulating endothelial cells counts suggests a potential improvement in the health and function of blood vessels, which is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular well-being. Overall, these findings suggest that reishi polysaccharide supplementation may have therapeutic potential in managing cardiovascular conditions.

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UTI

1

To evaluate the effects of reishi mushroom extract in men with mild to-moderate lower urinary tract symptoms .

2008 88 participants 12 weeks of treatment with follow up on the 16th week 6 mg/day of reishi mushroom extract (2 x 3 mg of reishi mush...
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of reishi mushroom extract in men with mild to-moderate lower urinary tract symptoms .

Dose

6 mg/day of reishi mushroom extract (2 x 3 mg of reishi mushroom extract in a 2 g tablet) or placebo

Participants

88 men with an average age of 64 years

Duration

12 weeks of treatment with follow up on the 16th week

Results

The study found an association between 12 weeks of reishi mushroom supplementation and a significant 2.1-point decrease in the International Prostate Symptom Score, compared to a 0.77 decrease in the placebo group. A lower score indicates a decrease in urinary symptoms such as frequency, urgency, weak urine flow, and nighttime urination, reflecting an improvement in the overall urinary function and quality of life. Additionally, quality of life scores also improved in both groups during the treatment, but no significant difference was found between the groups. No changes were observed in peak urinary flow, mean urinary flow, residual urine, prostate volume, serum prostate-specific antigen, or testosterone levels. Overall, the treatment was well tolerated, with no severe adverse effects reported.

How They Measured It

Urinary symptoms were assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), a self-administered questionnaire which measures the severity of urinary symptoms. Quality of life was assessed using one quality-of-life question for which the answers ranged from ‘delighted’ (0) to ‘terrible’ (6). The peak urinary flow rate (the maximum speed at which urine flows out during urination) was assessed using a uroflowmeter. This is a measurement that helps evaluate how well the urinary system is functioning Prostate volume (the size of the prostate) and residual urine volume were measured using ultrasonography, which assesses the size of the prostate gland and measures the amount of urine remaining in the bladder after urination.

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2

To evaluate the effects of reishi mushroom extract in men with lower urinary tract symptoms.

2008 50 participants 8 weeks of treatment with follow up on the 10th week 0.6, 6, and 60 mg/day of reishi mushroom extract or placebo
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of reishi mushroom extract in men with lower urinary tract symptoms.

Dose

0.6, 6, and 60 mg/day of reishi mushroom extract or placebo

Participants

50 men with lower urinary symptoms, aged 50-70 years

Duration

8 weeks of treatment with follow up on the 10th week

Results

The study found an association between reishi supplementation (6mg and 60mg) and significant reductions in the total International Prostate Symptom Score (and therefore reductions in the severity of urinary symptoms), as well as improved quality of life at weeks 4 and 8. A lower score in the questionnaires indicates improved urinary function and quality of life due to reduced urinary symptoms such as frequency, urgency, weak urine flow, and nighttime urination. At week 10, the researchers observed that scores from both questionnaires were the lowest after the 6 mg dose. However, there were no significant changes in prostate-specific antigen levels and prostate volume, and no significant improvements were observed in peak urinary flow rate and post-void residual urine volume among the four groups. Overall, treatment with 6mg and 60mg doses were both associated with improvements in urinary tract symptoms and quality of life.

How They Measured It

Urinary symptoms were assessed using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), a self-administered questionnaire which measures the severity of urinary symptoms. Quality of life was assessed using one quality-of-life question for which the answers ranged from ‘delighted’ (0) to ‘terrible’ (6). The peak urinary flow rate (the maximum speed at which urine flows out during urination) was assessed using a uroflowmeter. This is a measurement that helps evaluate how well the urinary system is functioning Prostate volume (the size of the prostate) and residual urine volume were measured using ultrasonography, which assesses the size of the prostate gland and measures the amount of urine remaining in the bladder after urination.

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Anti-viral

1

To investigate the effects of turkey tail in combination with reishi mushroom on oral human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted disease, mostly spread through oral sex or mouth-to-mouth contact.

2014 61 participants 2 months 200 mg/day of turkey tail and reishi (2 x 100 mg capsules) o...
Human Study Mixed

Study Type

Preliminary clinical trial

Purpose

To investigate the effects of turkey tail in combination with reishi mushroom on oral human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted disease, mostly spread through oral sex or mouth-to-mouth contact.

Dose

200 mg/day of turkey tail and reishi (2 x 100 mg capsules) or 400 mg/day of chicken of the woods mushroom (2 x 200 mg capsules)

Participants

61 oral HPV positive patients

Duration

2 months

Results

The researchers observed that in the group receiving turkey tail and reishi mushroom treatment, 87.8% of the cases showed clearance of oral HPV after 2 months of administration. In contrast, in the control group (treated with chicken of the woods mushroom), only 5% of the cases showed clearance of oral HPV. No adverse events were reported during the study. The results suggest that the combination of turkey tail and reishi mushroom may be an effective treatment for eliminating oral HPV infections.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Reishi research

What does the research say about Reishi?

There are currently 18 peer-reviewed studies on Reishi (Ganoderma lingzhi), involving 1,014 total participants. Research covers Immune system, Cognitive health/Neuroprotective effects, Fatigue and 3 more areas. The overall evidence strength is rated as Very Strong.

How strong is the evidence for Reishi?

The evidence is currently rated as "Very Strong Evidence". This rating is based on study design quality (randomisation, blinding, placebo controls), sample sizes, study types (15 human studies, 1 animal study), and reported outcomes.

What health goals has Reishi been studied for?

Reishi has been researched for: Immune system, Cognitive health/Neuroprotective effects, Fatigue, Liver health, UTI, Anti-viral. Each area has its own body of evidence which you can explore in the study breakdowns above.

Are the studies on Reishi based on human trials?

Yes, 15 out of 18 studies are human trials. The remaining 1 is an animal study. Human trials carry more weight in our evidence scoring system.