Reishi medicinal mushrooms from Asia are among the oldest remedies of mankind. 

In China and Japan, the Reishi effect has been known for thousands of years, even the physician Hildegard von Bingen appreciated its healing powers as early as the 12th century.

Reishi mushrooms are still used today to alleviate and cure various physical and mental diseases. The effect of Reishi is said to be equal to ginseng and is considered the king among medicinal plants in Asia.

We present the most important areas of application and Reishi mushroom effects:

 

The Reishi effect for the immune system

The special and valuable thing about Reishi mushrooms is the active ingredients. The Reishi effect on the immune system is based, among other things, on the vitamins, antioxidants and trace elements contained - which strengthen our defenses and at the same time fight harmful free radicals in the body.

Did you know that Reishi contains vitamin D? About 100g of dried mushrooms provide more than the necessary daily dose of vitamin D for adults.

Vitamin B2 is also present at about 1 mg per 100g and covers the daily requirement.

Nutrients and minerals such as calcium, magnesium and iron, manganese, zinc, as well as protein and fiber also support immune function and contribute to good health when taken regularly.

Since it also contains triterpenes, the vital mushroom is used especially for inflammation, these act much like cortisone but naturally fight inflammation in the body.

 

The Reishi effect on the psyche

Physical and mental health are highly interdependent.

In addition to the above-mentioned active ingredients for a strong immune system, the vital mushroom contains the trace element germanium, which is also found in ginseng and aloe vera. It supports and strengthens the general well-being, which is the basis for mental health. If the body or mind gets out of balance, it has an effect on the entire organism.

People suffering from anxiety are often using the help of Reishi. The positive effect of Reishi is said to calm and relax during stress.

Those who do not want to resort to psychotropic drugs such as antidepressants can use herbal remedies such as Reishi in combination with psychotherapy to alleviate certain symptoms in consultation with medical professionals. In addition to important vitamins such as D, B2 and B5, which are important for energy, Reishi also contains the active ingredient adenosine. It is said to have a sleep-promoting, calming effect. Since stress and depressive moods often also cause sleep disorders, the vital mushroom can be very helpful to stabilize the nervous system.

 

The Reishi effect on hormones

Reishi is often used in naturopathy during menopause and for hormonal complaints. Instead of hormone therapies, it can be useful (in consultation with doctors) to resort to natural remedies.

A survey in Austria showed that about 26 percent of respondents take dietary supplements during menopause. Many women suffer from menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and sleep disorders, and they also mention listlessness, anxiety, depressive moods, nervousness, and inner restlessness.

A major factor in these complaints is the change in hormone balance, including a lack of estrogen and serotonin. Incidentally, this also affects men, because from about 35 years, the hormones in the body also change here - the testosterone level decreases and estrogens partly increase.

The vital mushroom can alleviate symptoms of hormonal changes - Reishi and Ashwagandha in combination help with sleep disorders and have a calming and balancing effect. Hormone balance has a significant impact on our mood and psychological well-being - the effect of Reishi on hormones helps to bring them back into balance.

 

Reishi effect for weight loss

Reishi mushrooms can be used to support weight loss, because they are low in calories and fat, but contain important fiber, minerals and unsaturated fatty acids, which should also not be missing in a diet.

The most important effect of Reishi in losing weight is also the stimulation of the metabolism. In addition, vital mushrooms help detoxify the body. But of course, a healthy diet and plenty of exercise are still the basis to melt the pounds.

 

The Reishi effect on the skin

Reishi is often called the "mushroom of eternal life" and is especially valued for its anti-aging effect. Antioxidants fight free radicals in the body, which are responsible for skin aging, among other things.

Reishi also contains vitamin B5/pantothenic acid, which is essential for healthy growth of hair, nails and skin. About 100 g of dried Reishi mushrooms contain about 1.1-1.6 mg of vitamin B5. This covers almost the entire daily requirement.

The triterpenes contained in the Reishi mushroom have anti-inflammatory, soothing and antibacterial effects. Reishi relieves itching, redness of the skin as well as swelling and makes painful inflammations subside faster.

 

Do the Reishi capsules effect and powder differ?

The vital mushroom as a dietary Reishi supplement is available in the form of Reishi powder and as Reishi capsules.

If Reishi is dosed correctly, there is no difference in the effectiveness of Reishi capsules and powder, because the active ingredients remain the same. However, the dosage recommendations for Reishi are different and must be followed in each case.

 

Reishi mushroom effect experiences: What users say

The onset of action of Reishi mushrooms is a frequent question of users. How long do you have to take Reishi until the desired effect occurs? Here, two points are important: the correct dosage of Reishi regular intake and the quality of the product. On average, one should expect two to three weeks until the effect of Reishi mushrooms unfolds according to testimonials. 

Some users report positive experiences with Reishi to stabilize their blood sugar levels. However, this should always be done in consultation with doctors. In addition, side effects of Reishi are possible.

Particularly successful seems the Reishi mushroom effect on sleep disorders. Reishi testimonials on the effect state that taking it helps to fall asleep and sleep through.

A better night's sleep is often reported. Users also recommend a combination of Reishi with valerian or ashwagandha in case of restlessness or dejection, which have a very calming and relaxing effect. Because a good night's sleep is the basis for a healthy mind and body.




Sources: 

https://www.yakbett.de/ernaehrung/reishi-wirkung/ 

https://www.heilpilz-vitalpilz.com/pilz/der-reishi-vitalpilz-auch-bei-leichten-depressionen-angezeigt/ 

https://www.apotheken-umschau.de/krankheiten-symptome/erkrankungen-der-weiblichen-geschlechtsorgane/wechseljahre-beginn-symptome-hilfe-bei-beschwerden-736281.html 

https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/686439/umfrage/umfrage-in-oesterreich-zu-nahrungsergaenzungsmitteln-gegen-wechselbeschwerden/ 

https://www.menopause-gesellschaft.de/themen/menopause/ 



Textautor:

Kay Svegler

Kommunikationswissenschaft, PR, Amerikanistik, Universität Leipzig

Journalistin und freie Autorin (u.a. Süddeutsche Zeitung, BILD, MDR etc.)

Ehemals Senior PR Manager bei Fischer Appelt, Nachhaltigkeits- und Diversity-Manager bei der DKB