Reishi

Buying reishi: the well-known mushroom from tradition

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a woody mushroom that has long been known in East Asia, where it has a long tradition. In Japanese, the mushroom is known as reishi and in Chinese as lingzhi. Due to its hard, woody structure, reishi is not used as an ordinary edible mushroom, but is processed into extracts and powders for supplements. In our assortment, you will find reishi as a standalone extract and as part of mushroom complexes in which multiple species are combined, from different brands and in different dosages.

What is reishi?

Reishi is the common name for the mushroom Ganoderma lucidum, which grows on deciduous trees and has a characteristic shiny, reddish-brown cap. The mushroom is traditionally widely used in Asian herbal traditions. Because reishi is hard and woody in its natural form, it is processed into an extract or powder for supplements. Reishi naturally contains, among other things, polysaccharides such as beta-glucans and plant compounds called triterpenes. The label states how much reishi extract a product provides per serving.

Where does reishi come from?

Reishi is originally found in the temperate and subtropical regions of Asia, where the mushroom grows on dead and living deciduous wood. Today, reishi for supplement production is generally grown under controlled conditions, for example on wood chips or logs. After harvesting, the mushroom is dried and processed into an extract or powder. The origin and cultivation method may vary by brand; manufacturers often state this on the packaging or product page.

Reishi as an extract or in a mushroom complex

Reishi is available as a standalone product and as part of a complex. A standalone reishi extract contains only Ganoderma lucidum, often as a standardized extract with the beta-glucan or polysaccharide content stated on the label. In addition, there are mushroom complexes in which reishi is combined with other mushrooms, such as shiitake, maitake, cordyceps, or lion's mane. Such a complex is suitable for those who want to use multiple species at the same time, while a standalone extract is convenient when you are specifically looking for reishi.

What to look for regarding the quality of reishi?

The quality of a reishi supplement depends, among other things, on the type of extract. When comparing, check whether it is a standardized extract and what beta-glucan or polysaccharide content is stated. The extraction ratio (for example, a concentrated extract versus ground mushroom) is also relevant, as is whether it is an extract from the fruiting bodies or from the mycelium. This information is usually on the label or product page and helps you compare products with each other.

How much reishi per day?

No official recommended daily amount has been established for reishi. The dosage per product varies and is stated on the packaging, expressed in milligrams of extract per capsule. Follow the directions for use of the specific supplement and do not exceed the recommended dosage without advice. When using medications, such as blood thinners, or in case of doubt, it is wise to ask a doctor or therapist for advice beforehand.

Who is reishi interesting for?

Reishi supplements are intended for adults who want to use this traditional mushroom as a supplement to their diet. Because reishi is a mushroom, most products are suitable for a plant-based diet, although the capsule shell may sometimes be of animal origin; check this on the label. During pregnancy or breastfeeding and when using medications, it is wise to consult a doctor beforehand. Always follow the recommended dosage on the packaging.

Buying reishi: what to look for?

When choosing a reishi supplement, there are a few practical points to consider. Look at the amount of reishi extract per capsule, the type of extract, and the stated beta-glucan or polysaccharide content. Determine whether you are looking for a standalone reishi extract or a mushroom complex with multiple species. Pay attention to purity and calculate the price per daily serving. Reishi is a mushroom from the Asian tradition; for related products, also view our collection of Herbs & Plants.