3. Reishi mushroom can help to boost the immune system
Ganoderma lucidum (also known as Reishi mushroom) is one of the immune boosting herbs recommended by Asian physicians and herbalists as an alternative therapy for cancer. Cancer weakens immune defense, making recovery difficult and the patient more prone to developing other illnesses.
Ganoderma has been used for thousands of years in Chinese traditional medicine for asthma, bronchitis, gastric ulcers, arthritis, and insomnia. The herbal fungus is grown in tropical regions such as China and Japan. There are more than 80 species including the popular ganoderma lingzhi. It is also a popular supplement taken by healthy individuals for boosting immune function and strengthening body resistance.
The main bioactive compounds found in G. lucidum include terpenoids, phenols, steroids, and nucleotides (glycoproteins and polysaccharides).
Ganoderma shows anti-cancer and immune-supporting effects on the immune system.1✅ JOURNAL REFERENCE
PMID: 27045603 For example, triterpenes and polysaccharides exhibit the ability to arrest and kill cancer cells. Reishi mushroom also seems to enhance immune function due to its effects on white blood cells. Healthy white blood cells are important for fighting infection and cancer.
Meanwhile, a 2019 study on the immunomodulating effects of this oriental fungus found that it increases T-cell activity and promotes immune organ growth.2✅ JOURNAL REFERENCE
PMID: 31777013
Reishi mushroom is available fresh and in the form of a powder or tea. Although it may help enhance immunity, it can take a while to acquire the naturally bitter and unpleasant taste. Herbal tea fanatics prefer to describe ganoderma tea as having a raw, woody, earthy taste.
