Possibly Ineffective for
High levels of cholesterol or other fats (lipids) in the blood (hyperlipidemia). Taking reishi mushrooms by mouth doesn't seem to lower cholesterol levels in people with diabetes or high cholesterol.
There is interest in using reishi mushrooms for many other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Side Effects
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 mushrooms can cause dizziness, dry mouth, itching, nausea, stomach upset, and rash.
Reishi mushroom has been used to help enhance the immune system, reduce stress, improve sleep, and lessen fatigue. People also take reishi mushrooms for health conditions such as:
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Cardiovascular disease
Liver or kidney disease
Respiratory diseases (such as asthma)
Viral infections (such as the flu)
HIV/AIDS
Cancer and support during chemotherapy
Pain during and after a shingles outbreak
Building strength and stamina
Fatigue
There is some scientific evidence of its effectiveness, including lab research and some small human studies. Researchers are beginning to look at the chemical makeup of this mushroom to better understand how and whether it works for each of these conditions.Doses may depend upon factors that include:
Your age
The condition for which the mushroom is being prescribed
Form of the mushroom
Your overall health
Optimal doses of reishi mushroom have not been set for any condition. Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely. This makes it very hard to set a standard dose.
