What Are the Potential Side-Effects of Reishi Mushrooms?
Reishi mushrooms may have beneficial properties. They also have potential side effects such as upset stomach, skin rashes, and liver damage. Should you try them?
Updated April 14, 2023.
Reishi mushrooms have been used in traditional Asian medicine for thousands of years. Only recently has scientific research been done on these mushrooms (also called lingzhi) and their potential as a superfood.
Some proponents claim that these mushrooms can improve the immune system, relieve stress, and even fight serious health conditions.
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Are They Good For You?
Reishi mushrooms may have several beneficial properties, but further research is necessary to really understand this fungus.
With 400 unique bioactive components, it is understandable that mushrooms could have positive and negative effects on the human body. There is no conclusive evidence to support claims of potential benefits. However, they may boost the immune system, relieve stress, help with respiratory issues, and help relieve the symptoms of other ailments.
Potential Side-Effects
Reishi mushrooms may cause an upset stomach and skin rashes. The mushroom may cause nausea, itchiness, nosebleeds, insomnia, dry mouth, and bloody stool in some people.
Liver damage is the harshest side-effect when consumed for extended periods, usually over a year, though this risk is incredibly low. The mushrooms may interact negatively with prescription medication or other supplements you may be taking.
Should You Try Reishi Mushrooms?
Some supplements may contain only certain components of the mushrooms or a harmless quantity.
Talk to your doctor before trying a supplement containing Reishi mushrooms.
Several factors may influence the potential side effects of the mushrooms, including dose, the mushroom form (natural, powdered, or extract), and how long the mushrooms are taken.
Final Thought
Like so many things, there is no black and white answer. To be safe, always consult your doctor before taking any new supplement.
