Reishi mushroom powder is extracted from a fungus. It’s estimated that there are over 2 million different species of fungi that grow on earth. Some of these fungi have been a mainstay in traditional medicine for centuries, whilst others the complete opposite.

Upon the most popular in traditional medicine is the Reishi Mushroom. It has grown in popularity, particularly in Asian regions due to its claimed properties for boosting immunity, preventing fatigue and calming depression. This has led to modern scientific studies exploring reishi mushroom powder in more depth.

What is Reishi Mushroom Powder?

Reishi is a fungus that is scientifically identified as the genus Ganoderma lucidum. They are often short & wide with a ‘dwarf-like’ shape & colored in a strong red/brown like varnish. They can be eaten as usual although is often extracted into Reishi mushroom powder for various other uses.

It’s rise in popularity in western nutrition is nothing in comparison to some regions of Asia, where it is believed to have been used in traditional medicine for over 2000 years. As a traditional Chinese medicine, it has long been claimed to extend life & promote health.

Modern research has suggested that it may have exceptional value in nutrition, cosmetics & medical treatments. Along with boosting immunity & balancing mood, there has been a lot of high-profile research testing reishi mushroom powder against various forms of cancer. Please be aware that the evidence provided in these studies are not scientifically conclusive.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION & STUDIES LINKED IN THIS ARTICLE SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR MEDICAL ADVICE OR AS SUGGESTED TREATMENT OF ANY ILLNESS. YOU SHOULD ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR FOR CLEAR DIRECTION ON TREATMENT FOR ANY ILLNESS OR HEALTH DISCOMFORT.

Where is Reishi Mushroom from?

It is native to Asia & typically grows in humid regions of Asia, although there is estimated to be around 80 different species globally. They grow on dying or dead hemlock trees, along with conifers.

Reishi is estimated to have been cultivated in China for over 2000 years. Outside of Asia, they also grow in Northern America.

Uses

The natural flavouring of reishi mushrom powder is bitter & not too different from dark chocolate. This has made it notably popular with drinks & deserts.

Like other mushrooms, one of the most popular uses for Reishi is to brew as a tea. Others use it as a healthy addition to coffee or hot chocolate.

What are the benefits of reishi mushroom powder?

Popular research suggests that the mushroom is highly nutritious. That’s because it has a high volume of bioactive compounds & healthy minerals. Some of the most common benefits reported are:

• Boosting your immune system
• Balancing mood & reducing stress
• Potential cancerous properties

Testing reishi’s impact on the immune system has been one of the most popular forms of research. Some research has found that reishi may promote generation of white blood cells. Some white blood cells can be critical for battling dangerous bacteria & cells.

This has also led to increased research, testing the impact of reishi mushroom powder against cancer cells. Various controlled studies have concluded that it may help kill cancerous cells. Studies have been carried out on different forms of cancer from breast cancer to prostate cancer. It should again be clarified that reishi has not been medically certified as a treatment for cancer.

Claims for reishi mushroom powder balancing mood & decreasing stress have gone back thousands of years. Some studies claim that it can lead to reduced fatigue, which then has led to reduced stress & improved wellbeing.

Before we continue... fancy a free pouch or a discount?

Sign up below & try your luck with our wheel our fortune. Win a free pouch, up to 25% discount & free nutrition & health advice with our weekly newsletter!

Hint: You can't lose!

Nutritional properties of reishi mushroom powder

Reishi mushroom powder is dense with lots of powerful minerals that help maintain bodily function. Studies suggest that it has over 400 bioactive compounds. Some of the standout nutrients are:

• Potassium
• Zinc
• Maganese

Commonly associated with bananas, Reishi is fairly rich with potassium too. Potassium is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health blood sugar levels, brain health & brain function.

Zinc is packed with strong antioxidants that can help battle dangerous bacteria. It is an essential mineral that helps build a strong immune system & prevent the risk of harmful illnesses & diseases.

Maganese is only need in small amounts, but plays a crucial role in brain function & the functioning of our nervous system.

Reishi in every day use

Reishi is most used in the form of powder. The rich, bitter taste can make it a great addition to hot water, hot milk, tea or coffee.

At Nutrifize we include reishi mushroom powder as a component of our Calming Cocoa to help provide a calming presence. Try adding this complex into hot milk or hot water after a long day at work.

Join the Nutrifize community

Want exclusive access to more Knowledge with Nutrifize? Subscribe to our weekly Newsletter using the signup form below for exclusive member discounts, giveaways, recipes, health tips, nutrition tips & more!

Do you have any questions? Feel free to send us your queries via the contact page & we'll aim to get back to you with 48 hours. Alternatively check out our FAQ's, we may have answered your question already!