Ganoderma lucidum or reishi mushroom is famous in the East as a medicine ingredient. The name ‘reishi’ mushroom means “mushroom of immortality” with a direct Chinese translation of ling chih.

During the ancient Eastern times, reishi mushroom was even called the “medicine of kings” since it offers unbelievable health benefits that will ward off almost all kinds of illness. Reishi mushroom tea health benefits were highlighted by writer Rebecca Wood in her book entitles “New Whole Foods Encyclopedia” where she said, “Reishi indeed sounds like a cure-all”. Her explanation as stated in the Natural News states that reishi is an immunostimulant which has proven to be very helpful for people with HIV and AIDS, Epstein-Barr, leaky-gut syndrome, chronic bronchitis, cancer and other infectious illness. Minor benefits involve the mushroom to take effect as a laxative, as a diuretic, helps those with insomnia and lowers harmful cholesterol in the body.

Dried reishi mushroom is best used for tea to avoid its bitter taste and maximize the health benefits that it provides like treatment against cancer, infections, allergies and other diseases. (Photo Credit)

The Benefits of Reishi Mushroom

It seemed odd that this fungus can make so much benefit to the human body. The medicinal benefits of red reishi mushroom tea are famous for its antioxidant properties wherein it fights irregularity in the cells lowering chances of cancer cell growth. A study published in the journal Experimental Oncology confirmed the effects of reishi on human cancer cells and the fungus astonishingly prevents further cell damage.

Since reishi mushroom is an immunostimulant, it means that it modulates, regulates and supports the immune system. The mushroom contains chemical compounds called polysaccharides like beta glucans that boosts the immunity.

Another benefit is that it lowers blood pressure making it a popular choice for people with cardiovascular issues. It is highly advised in APA’s “Practical Guide to Natural Medicine” that people with hypertension should take this fungus as a supplement. In effect, it also lowers cholesterol, stabilizes blood pressure and further prevents blood clotting.

Lastly, a lot of people are suffering from allergic reactions. Reishi mushroom is one of the favorite additive to blend with allergy teas, as stated in Live Strong.

Here’s a short summary of the illness that can be treated by reishi mushroom:

Diabetes
Liver disease
Food allergies
Asthma
Digestive issues
Inflammation
Fatigue
Cancer
Heart illness
Sleep disorders
Anxiety and depression
Virus infections

Making Reishi Mushroom Tea

The best way to brew or make reishi mushroom tea is with the use of dried and powdered mushroom. The raw or fresh mushroom is much less preferred since it tastes bitter and awful for most people, as said in the Health Line. it is recommended to drink the herb daily and a daily dose of the recipe will require half an ounce of dried reishi mushroom. The mushroom will be boiled with a pint and a half of water and put to simmer for another 45 minutes. Allow the mixture to stand for at least 30 minutes prior to consumption.