Reishi strengthens the immune system by enhancing monocyte, macrophage and T lymphocyte activity (these are all immune cells). Furthermore, reishi has been shown to increase the longevity and strength of white blood cells (WBC), supporting both quality and quantity. Reishi has further been shown to protect from radiation and has anti-angiogenesis activity (meaning it inhibits the growth of new blood vessels). The increase of WBC is particularly interesting with regards to colds and flu, reishi can be effective in preventing but also shortening the lengths of flu.

Reishi not only stimulates the immune system once it is weakened, but more so, reishi helps to 'wake up' the immune system prior to full disease, actually preventing it. So how does reishi work in the body? It is thought to be the high polysaccharide content in reishi that lends itself to its potent immune-modulating benefits. For those with Candida albicans, reishi has been shown to help regulate the overgrowth of candida in the body. Both clinical and traditional use suggests that reishi may be beneficial in a range of immune-related conditions, like acute and chronic viral conditions such as Epstein Barr Virus, rheumatism, chronic pneumonia and even HIV.

Acting as an adaptogen, reishi provides an individual with protection from various biological, environmental and social stresses. The adaptogenic triterpenes in particular have a harmonising effect on both the immune system and circulatory systems, thus helping with mental tension, memory and general stress. Reishi works as an antioxidant against free radicals, and the ganoderic acid provides anti-inflammatory effects for cells, leading to an overall decrease in physical stress to the body. 

Reishi has a calming effect and can relax the central nervous system, helping with insomnia, anxiety and general restlessness, promoting feelings of peacefulness. Reishi can also be particularly effective during menopause if anxiety is present. To promote a deeper, more restful night’s sleep, Reishi is a wonderful tonic to have before bedtime. 

Those who take reishi notice a peacefulness that arrives with its use, accumulating over time as she strengthens the nerves of the body. That’s why she’s seen as the greatest anti-stress herb and has been used for thousands of years to calm the mind, improve memory, strengthen the nerves, sharpen focus, build willpower and ease tension.

There is a rich history of use and empirical knowledge of Reishi in pregnancy, providing a calming anchor for mothers during pregnancy, as well as during the birthing process. Reishi is used to fortify immunity, adaptability, and hormone health and offers the nervous system deep support. ‘

In Eastern philosophy, there is a concept of “reishi babies”, this is a beautiful quality observed in babies whose mothers took reishi during and after pregnancy. In Eastern philosophy, there is a concept of “reishi babies”, this is a beautiful quality observed in babies whose mothers took reishi during and after pregnancy.

Reishi is one of the most revered medicines in history. Known as Ling zhi in China, the folklore surrounding this magical adaptogen describes the reverence the ancient Daoists had for this life-enhancing mushroom.