Reishi mushrooms are nicknamed “the mushroom of immortality” because of their immune-boosting and anti-cancer properties. The bioactive constituents found in reishi mushrooms are antioxidants (most notably triterpenes or triterpenoids) and the polysaccharide beta-glucan.
Immune boosters improve the body’s defense against foreign invaders, like bacteria, viruses and cancer cells, by stimulating the production of white blood cells. In one study, 40 male athletes experienced an improvement in lymphocyte function after six weeks of consuming reishi mushroom extract daily (1).
Although it is not recommended as a primary cancer treatment, research has suggested that consuming reishi mushroom can be beneficial in conjunction with cancer therapy because of its potential to enhance tumour response, support immune function and improve quality of life (2). Traditionally, reishi mushrooms are also known for their ability to reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
Referenced sources:
Zhang, Y, Lin Z, et al. (2008) Effect of Ganoderma lucidum capsules on T lymphocyte subsets in football players on living high-training low.
Jin, x, Beguerie, J.R, et al. (2016) Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) for cancer treatment.