Reishi—also known as Ganoderma Lucidum, Ling Zhi, Livid Polypore, etc.—is a medicinal mushroom prized in Asia and used for over 1,000 years for its numerous beneficial properties. Reaching up to 20 centimeters in height, it is recognizable by its glossy appearance and its yellow, orange, or red cap, which can measure up to 30 cm in diameter.
This fungus sometimes grows on the roots of fruit trees, but it is especially fond of decaying tree trunks.
At MushUp, we get our famous top-quality organic mushrooms from producers based in Quebec.
Why consume it: its benefits
Reishi, or "queen of mushrooms," is a superfood. It contains vitamins C, D, B5, and B9. It is rich in minerals and trace elements: potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, iron, and zinc. In addition to its protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, it contains triterpenes, which have a beneficial effect on mood, sterols, which reduce bad cholesterol, fatty acids, and steroids.
Its benefits for the body are numerous. A 2017 study highlighted the effects of the mushroom on the human microbiota. The composition of our gut flora can indeed have a significant impact on our body fat. By nourishing the microbiota, Reishi promotes weight loss. It acts, in a way, like a probiotic.
The red-capped mushroom also has effects on the nervous system thanks to its triterpenes. Indeed, experiments have shown its antidepressant, anxiolytic, and anti-stress properties.
In addition to its relaxing action, Ganoderma is a valuable ally for people suffering from high blood pressure.
It is also known for its anti-cancer effects (note that this does not replace treatment and should not be used without monitoring by a specialist). This is thought to be due to the mushroom's polysaccharides, which stimulate the immune system and have immunomodulatory effects on certain cancers.
Taking Reishi as a complement to treatment would be beneficial for the patient.
If you have any medical problems, are undergoing treatment, or are in any doubt, we advise you to consult a specialist before taking any Reishi.
How to consume Reishi?
After reading about all the benefits of ganoderma, you're probably wondering, "Great, but how do I prepare it?"
The mushroom can be consumed in dried form. The recommended daily intake is 1.5 to 9 grams. Add the dried pieces to hot water to make an infusion, which should be steeped for about fifteen minutes.
If you're looking for a milder option, you can try Reishi powder. This can be added to your favorite drinks, such as fresh fruit juice or tea.
And for coffee lovers, at MushUp, we've gone all out. We love this mushroom and its adaptogenic properties so much that we decided to incorporate it into all our recipes. Each 20g cup of coffee delivers 400mg of concentrated Reishi thanks to our triple extraction process: the polysaccharide chains are broken down and the beta-glucans are released. Our process allows us to extract all the mushroom's properties, something impossible with powder or simple infusions. Reishi thus offers a wonderful complement to coffee by moderating the effects of caffeine on the body, such as palpitations, anxiety, and tremors. A great way to combine business with pleasure!
