Reishi

Identity

Common Name

Reishi

Scientific Name

Ganoderma lucidum

Botanical Family

Ganodermataceae

Native Region

East Asia (temperate hardwood forests)

Cultivation Regions

China, Japan, Korea, North America (cultivated)

Plant Parts Used

Fruiting body, Spores

Synonyms

Lingzhi, Mushroom of Immortality, Reishi

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A bracket (shelf) fungus growing on hardwood trees, with a broad kidney-shaped cap bearing a glossy reddish-brown lacquered surface with concentric growth rings, a short lateral stem, and a pale underside of tiny pores.

Historical Background

Reishi (Lingzhi, 'spirit plant') has been revered in China and Japan for over two thousand years as a tonic for longevity, vitality, and calm. The 'mushroom of immortality' in Daoist tradition, its tough, woody fruiting body is simmered long into a bitter decoction rather than steeped briefly.

Earliest recorded uses: Recorded in the Shennong Ben Cao Jing (~2000 years ago) as a premier tonic; called the 'mushroom of immortality.'

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Bitter, earthy, woody, umami

Tea Information

Research Summary

Reishi has a long tradition as a calming, immune, and longevity tonic. Small trials and preclinical work suggest modest effects on fatigue, immune markers, and inflammation, but evidence is limited and it is not a treatment for cancer, infection, hypertension, or any disease.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources