Reishi Mushroom Side Effects

The Reishi mushroom, scientifically known as the Ganoderma lucidum, is known by several other names like 'Ling Chih', 'Ling Zhi', 'Mushroom of Spiritual Potency' and 'Spirit Plant', to name a few. The mushroom comes in interesting shapes and the reddish-brown and yellow-based coloring, which it bears, makes it one of the most visually appealing species.

This species of mushroom belongs to the family of polypore mushrooms and is available worldwide in tropical and subtropical climates. It is soft when fresh and has a prominent kidney-shaped cap, accompanied by white to dull pores underneath. The mushroom is a decomposer and usually grows on dead hardwood.

Possible Side Effects of Using Reishi Mushroom

The mushroom is harmful only when taken more than what is required. To ensure that there is no allergic reaction, it is better to start off with a small dose of tea or extract of the mushroom. Common side effects that can be caused by the Reishi mushroom include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea which develop after few hours or more, of taking the mushroom. Diarrhea is also a common side effect which doctors diagnose in most people who consume Reishi. Stomach discomfort, skin rash, nosebleeds, skin irritation, dizziness, dry nose and dry throat may also occur as mild recuperation of the use of this fungi. The Reishi mushroom may also interfere with the efficacy of other medications and very high doses of it may be damaging to the cells.

Some studies show that there are no severe side effects of this plant and it is also nontoxic even in very high doses. Interactions which this mushroom may have with other medications include intensifying the effects of blood-thinning drugs. Common examples are aspirin, dalteparin sodium, enoxaparin sodium, and warfarin. So, it is advisable for people who are on such kinds of medications, to refrain from any products which are Reishi based.

Reishi Mushroom Benefits

Also known as the 'Mushroom of Immortality', the Reishi mushroom is known to have the property to boost the immune system, combat fatigue and help in warding off a number of ailments. Like its other relatives, it is too a good source of B vitamins and amino acids. This fleshy fungi has been known to possess anti-tumor, immunomodulatory and immunotherapeutic properties.

Ailments which can be managed through the use of Reishi mushroom include viral infections such as influenza, swine flu and avian flu. Its preparation also aids in lowering high cholesterol and high blood pressure. People suffering from asthma, bronchitis or kidney and liver diseases, or sleep disorders, can largely benefit from the use of this medicinal mushroom. More coming up in the list of the conditions which may be managed by this Asian medicine include stomach ulcers, herpes pain, stress, chronic fatigue syndrome, poisoning and even severe diseases like the HIV/AIDS.

So that does it for the few side effects and also a bit about the benefits of the Reishi mushroom. As we can infer from what has been described in the above segment, this product presents no threat or concern to health when consumed according to the prescribed doses. However, when taken in high amount, it has all the chances of developing undesirable side effects, as the saying goes, "Too much of anything is bad!"