TCM Materia Medica: Reishi

In Chinese, reishi is known as lingzhi, which roughly translates as “spirit mushroom.” It has been the subject of many myths and legends and is often revered as a symbol of good luck and longevity.

Sometimes nicknamed “the mushroom of immortality,” reishi is known for its numerous health benefits, which include immunomodulating, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiageing, hypoglycaemic, and hepatoprotective effects, as well as traditionally being used to relieve anxiety and insomnia.

Reishi contains as many as 400 bioactive compounds, although polysaccharides and triterpenoids are thought to be responsible for most of its therapeutic properties.

Although this mushroom is not edible in the traditional sense due to its woody texture, its active compounds can be extracted in water and alcohol, and these extracts can be used as supplements or to create recipes such as the one below.

In Chinese medicine, reishi is classified as sweet and neutral, entering the Heart, Liver, Lung, and Kidney channels. It is mainly used to treat chest tightness, support Heart qi, calm the mind, and improve memory. Its actions and indications according to Chinese medicine are listed more fully below.

Actions:

• Nourish the body

• Strengthen resistance

• Support uprightness

• Secure the root

• Invigorate the Spleen

• Calm the mind

• Replenish qi

Indications:

• Spleen deficiency

  • Poor appetite

  • Fatigue

• Lung deficiency

  • Chronic cough

  • Panting

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Shortness of breath

• Blood not nourishing Heart

  • Palpitations

  • Dizziness

  • Insomnia

  • Poor memory

Cautions:

• Anticoagulants

• Antidiabetic drugs

• Other Chinese herbs

• Stop two weeks before surgery

Related recipe: Reishi Energy Balls

For more healthy eating tips according to traditional Chinese medicine, visit the Dietary Therapy section of the website, or book a consultation for personalised advice.