Reishi

Also known as: Ganoderma lucidum, lingzhi, reishi mushroom

Grade B — Moderate Evidencemushroomadaptogenimmune
1500–3000 mgEvening preferred (calming, sleep-supportive). Morning for immune support.

Calming medicinal mushroom with immune-modulating and cancer-fatigue benefits. Best taken evening for sleep support.

🧘Stress & Anxiety🛡️Immunity🌙Sleep
Last reviewed: 2026-03-11

Evidence

Grade B

Studies

2

Interactions

3

Forms

1

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Cycling Protocol

8 weeks on/2 weeks off

Medicinal mushroom cycling allows immune system recalibration

Interaction Warnings

ImmunosuppressantsModerate

May counteract immunosuppressive drugs; caution post-transplant

Anticoagulants (warfarin)Moderate

Inhibits platelet aggregation; monitor INR; stop 2 weeks before surgery

AntihypertensivesLow

Mild BP-lowering effect; additive

⚠️ Important Notes

  • Use dual-extract (water + ethanol) fruiting body
  • Avoid mycelium-on-grain products
  • Rare hepatotoxicity case reports — use extract forms

Clinical Evidence (2 studies)

Reishi improved fatigue and QoL in cancer patients

Zhao H et al. (2014) — Cancer Med

Significantly improved fatigue and quality of life vs placebo; RCT

View on PubMed

Reishi polysaccharides enhanced NK and T-cell activity

Tang W et al. (2012) — J Ethnopharmacol

Enhanced NK and T-cell activity in healthy volunteers; RCT

View on PubMed

Alternatives to Consider

These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Reishi.

Ashwagandha

Grade A

Ayurvedic adaptogen with strong clinical evidence for cortisol reduction (15-30%), stress relief, and exercise performance.

🧘 Stress & Anxiety🌙 Sleep

Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Grade B

Ayurvedic adaptogen with evidence for stress reduction and blood glucose stabilization. Gentle daily-use herb.

🧘 Stress & Anxiety🛡️ Immunity

Rhodiola Rosea

Grade B

Adaptogenic herb with strong evidence for reducing stress-related fatigue. Comparable to low-dose antidepressants for mild depression.

🧘 Stress & Anxiety

Related Supplements

Ashwagandha

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Ayurvedic adaptogen with strong clinical evidence for cortisol reduction (15-30%), stress relief, and exercise performance.

Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Ayurvedic adaptogen with evidence for stress reduction and blood glucose stabilization. Gentle daily-use herb.

Magnesium Glycinate

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Strong evidence for sleep quality, muscle relaxation, and stress reduction. Most adults are deficient.

L-Theanine

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Amino acid from green tea. Promotes calm focus (alpha brain waves) without drowsiness. Excellent safety profile.

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

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