Eastern medicines make use of several fungi and plants. Interestingly, reishi mushrooms are the most popular. It contains many therapeutic properties. That’s why traditional Chinese medicines use this mushroom to treat different diseases such as bronchitis, asthma, insomnia, arthritis, and gastric ulcers.
Reishi mushroom is a type of fungi, which provides several health benefits to your body. You can consume it fresh or in powdered form.
Here are seven scientifically-backed health benefits of the reishi mushroom:
Supports your immune system
It is the most important effect of the reishi mushroom. A study in cancer patients has indicated that molecules present in this mushroom enhance the activity of natural killer cells (a type of white blood cells) in your body. Another study has revealed that natural killer cells fight cancer and infections, and support your immune functions.
Anti-cancer properties
Usually, people consume mushrooms due to their anti-cancer properties. The research has depicted that women with breast cancer consumed reishi mushroom and showed a significant increase in the death of cancerous cells.
One study has indicated that the reishi mushroom is beneficial for preventing prostate cancer due to its effect on the testosterone hormone.
Fights fatigue
Reishi mushroom reduces fatigue and improves the quality of your life. The research has indicated that people who consumed reishi powder for four weeks observed a visible decline in fatigue and improvement in their life quality.
Improves brain functions
This mushroom plays a promising role in improving sleep and relieving stress and anxiety. Several studies have revealed that reishi is a strong brain tonic, which energizes your mood and improves your concentration. Another study has found that due to strong antioxidant properties reishi helps in preventing dementia, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s disease. One more Japanese study has concluded that reishi improves memory in dementia patients.
Supports heart health
A 12-week study was done on heart patients to check the effect of reishi on heart health. And the results have concluded that reishi is good to increase the level of HDL (good cholesterol) and reduces triglyceride levels, which ultimately supports heart functions.
Controls blood sugar level
One animal study has revealed that chemicals found in reishi are effective in reducing blood sugar levels in diabetic rats. If you are taking any blood pressure medicine, then first consult your physician before using reishi, because the combination can bring your BP to a dangerous level.
Has allergy-fighting potential
Several studies have depicted that the reishi mushroom has a strong anti-histamine effect and enhances oxygen supply in your body, which is key to those suffering from chronic allergy.
In the bottom line
Reishi mushroom is a fungus, which is traditionally used in eastern medicines to treat different diseases. Besides, it provides numerous health benefits. Remember; first, consult your physician before using it to prevent side effects.
