THE BENEFITS OF MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS

Reishi Mushroom

Lingzhi, also known as Reishi, is a polypore fungus native to East Asia belonging to the genus Ganoderma. Its reddish brown, varnished, kidney-shaped cap with bands and peripherally inserted stem give it a distinct fan-like appearance. When fresh, the Lingzi is soft, cork-like, and flat.

Reishi mushrooms are used to potentially boost the immune system, reduce fatigue, and improve cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. Some studies suggest they may also help manage blood sugar levels and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. While traditional uses are widespread, more high-quality human research is needed to confirm many of the alleged benefits, such as anti-cancer properties. 

Potential benefits

• Immune system support: 

Reishi mushrooms may increase the number and function of white blood cells, which help fight off illness. 

• Stress and fatigue reduction: 

They may help reduce chronic fatigue and the effects of stress by supporting the immune system. 

• Heart health: 

Some research suggests reishi can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, but more human studies are needed. 

• Blood sugar management: 

Some studies indicate potential benefits for managing blood sugar levels, though human studies have had mixed results. 

• Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects: 

Reishi contains compounds that act as antioxidants, protecting cells from damage, and may have anti-inflammatory properties. 

Important considerations

• Talk to a doctor: 

Always consult a healthcare provider before taking reishi supplements, especially if you are on other medications, as they can interact with certain drugs. 

• Potential side effects: 

Some people may experience side effects like nausea or insomnia. 

• Bleeding risk: 

Reishi mushroom may increase the risk of bleeding, so it's important to use caution if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin. 

While research is promising, many studies have been conducted on animals or in labs, and more conclusive human studies are required for many of the claimed benefits.

At Gourmet Mushrooms Geelong, we provide medicinal mushrooms in powder form, allowing you the flexibility to use them as you prefer. You can blend them into a smoothie, add them to tea or coffee, or sprinkle them over a pasta dish.

If you're concerned about your health and well-being, why not give them a try today?

This week we start our night markets on the run up to Christmas

Our first on is at Bannockburn on Thursday evening, We have our Christmas gift packs a good idea for work presents or for something different for those you can never think what to buy.

At the moment they are only available at the markets, but if you can't get there and are interested in purchasing one or a few, please ring or send a message.