Polysaccharides: Enhance immune function, with anti-tumor properties.
Triterpenes: Liver protection, anti-inflammatory, and antihypertensive effects.
Ganoderic acids: Lower cholesterol and inhibit histamine release.
Beta-glucans: Immune support and potential anticancer effects.
Sterols: Help in reducing cholesterol and improving cardiovascular health.
Ling Zhi-8 (LZ-8): An immunomodulating protein with anti-allergic properties.
Notable Benefits:
Stress Reduction
Reishi is often called the “mushroom of immortality” in traditional Chinese medicine and is highly regarded for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body cope with stress:
Adaptogenic compounds:
Reishi contains triterpenes, like ganoderic acid, which are known for their adaptogenic effects, helping to balance the body’s stress response and improve mental well-being.
Promotion of sleep and relaxation:
Reishi can enhance the quality of sleep and promote a state of relaxation due to its sedative properties, making it beneficial for reducing stress and combating insomnia.
Immune Modulation
Reishi has a profound effect on the immune system, not just boosting immune response but also modulating it to prevent overactivity:
Polysaccharides:
These compounds, particularly beta-glucans, in Reishi enhance the immune system by activating immune cells such as macrophages and natural killer cells, and by stimulating the production of cytokines, which are critical for a healthy immune response.
Triterpenes:
Also contribute to immune modulation by adjusting the immune system, potentially reducing autoimmune responses and allergic reactions.
Heart Health
Reishi supports cardiovascular health in multiple ways:
Cholesterol reduction:
Compounds in Reishi, especially triterpenes, have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.
Blood pressure regulation:
Reishi can help to lower and stabilize blood pressure, attributed to its ganoderic acids and other triterpenoid compounds.
Circulation improvement:
By preventing blood platelet aggregation, Reishi can improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
