Known as the “mushroom of immortality”, reishi has been used for centuries as a longevity tonic. It grows at the base of hardwood trees, where it forms large, dark mushrooms, with varying colours from reddish-orange to black.
There is robust scientific evidence showing that Reishi mushrooms can enhance immunity, relieve insomnia, reduce fatigue (especially when due to low oxygen levels), lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar, improve resilience to stress, protect against free radical damage and act as a natural anti-allergenic (making it very useful in cases of asthma and allergies).
Reishi belongs to a class of medicines known as adaptogens. These powerful substances support the homeostasis of the body and support resilience to stress of all kinds – physical, chemical, biological, and mental.
Reishi mushrooms are particularly rare in the wild, and increased demand means Reishi is now one of the most widely cultivated medicinal mushrooms to avoid endangering it.
The exact way Reishi's immune-boosting powers work remains uncertain, but scientific studies have shown multiple positive effects. Some of these include increasing the number of white blood cells in the body, altering inflammation pathways, and improving lymphocyte function.
Reishi is included in our Mushroom Power Mix, a delicious powder mix that harnesses the potent benefits of a range of medicinal mushrooms and which can be conveniently added into your morning coffee, into shakes and smoothies, or mixed into stir-fries, risottos and soups for a healthy boost.