Ganoderma Mushroom

Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) have been a part of some traditional medicine practices for more than 2,000 yearsTrusted Source. Reishi mushrooms contain polysaccharides, peptides, and triterpenoids, which may provide some of their health benefits. They also contain dietary fiber and various minerals, vitamins, and amino acids.

Reishi supplements may cause anticoagulants or antiplatelets to become more effective, which increases the risk of bleeding. Therefore, people whom doctors have scheduled for surgery and individuals with bleeding disorders should not take reishi mushrooms. These supplements might also lower blood pressure. People who already have low blood pressure or are taking blood pressure medication may wish to avoid reishi mushrooms. This advice also applies to those taking immunosuppressants, as reishi mushroom supplements may counteract their effectiveness. Also, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not consume these mushrooms.

Triterpenoids and polysaccharides of G. lucidum have been reported to possess cytotoxic, hepatoprotective, antihypertensive, hypocholesterolemic, antihistaminic effects, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic antiallergic, neuroprotective, antitumor, immunomodulatory and antiangiogenic activities.