What are the benefits of taking Lingzhi?
Lingzhi has long been valued for its contributions to longevity and vitality. Rich in triterpenoids and polysaccharides, it is known, too, for its antioxidant properties, which help protect cells and tissues from damage caused by oxidative stress. Lingzhi has a distinctive bitter taste, and is used in cooking and in making herbal tea. Its major use, however, has been in traditional Chinese medicine where it is considered an immortality herb or “divine” mushroom, capable to improving heath, promoting longevity, preventing illness, and restoring youthful vigor.In traditional Chinese medicine, Lingzhi is highly esteemed for its medicinal properties of enhancing physical fitness and alleviating symptoms of weakness [2]. The chemical constituents of Ganoderma include triterpenoids, meroterpenoids, steroids, alkaloids and nucleosides [3], [4].These are produced from different parts of the mushroom, including mycelia, spores, and fruit body. The specific applications and attributed health benefits of lingzhi include control of blood glucose levels, modulation of the immune system, hepatoprotection, bacteriostasis, and more.In TCM, Lingzhi is said to influence the heart, lungs, liver and kidney channels, and is therefore often prescribed to tonify Qi, calm the mind, and relieve cough and asthma. A word of caution: Lingzhi stimulates the immune system, and should never be taken by those who are on immunosuppressant drugs.
What are the side effects of Lingzhi?
When taken by mouth: Reishi mushroom extract is possibly safe when used for up to one year. Powdered whole reishi mushroom is possibly safe when used for up to 16 weeks. Reishi mushroom can cause dizziness, dry mouth, itching, nausea, stomach upset, and rash. Mushroom coffee is generally safe for most people. However, those with mushroom allergies, digestive or kidney issues, or certain prescriptions should avoid it.Coffee may help your weight loss journey through stimulating metabolism or reducing fat stores in the body. However, its benefits may vary depending on your unique circumstances. Coffee contains caffeine, one of the few substances known to help mobilize fats from your fat tissues and increase metabolism.Other allergic reactions may include dizziness, rash, headache, stomach discomfort, high bleeding, and bloody stools. Individuals with extremely low or high blood pressure face an increased risk when using reishi mushrooms.Potential Side Effects Although mushroom coffee is generally considered safe for most individuals, allergic reactions and gastrointestinal discomfort have been reported. Medicinal mushrooms can also interact with anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, and hypoglycemic drugs.Unlike most supplements, mushroom coffee doesn’t position itself as a weight-loss product per se—but as a daily support tool to help manage stress, control appetite, balance energy levels, and create a better foundation for fat loss.