What is reishi?
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), lingzhi in Chinese, is a red-brown lacquered mushroom that grows on wood. Traditional Chinese medicine has ranked it among the most precious substances for 2,000 years: it was once reserved for emperors, hence its nickname "mushroom of immortality".
What tradition says
- Traditionally associated with inner calm and sleep quality;
- traditional support for natural defences;
- in Chinese medicine it "nourishes the shen", the spirit, and accompanies meditation.
Bitter and woody, reishi is a background adaptogen: its effects build over time.
Dosage and use
The extract is taken as drops diluted in a glass of water, 1 to 2 times a day, preferably at the end of the day. A course of at least 3 weeks, renewable. See the label for the precise dosage.
Reishi or ashwagandha?
Both are evening companions. Ashwagandha is more directly associated with everyday stress, reishi with deep calm and natural defences. They can complement each other.
Precautions
Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or children without medical advice. Ask your doctor if you take anticoagulants. Food supplement: not a substitute for a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.