Most popular

Reishi (lingzhi)

Also called: lingzhi, ganoderma

A medicinal mushroom (Ganoderma) used in Chinese medicine for centuries; sold as slices, powder, spore powder and extract.

Why people take it
Immunity, sleep, longevity, and support during cancer treatment.
What the evidence says
Most research is in the lab or small human studies. There is no reliable evidence that it treats cancer or any other disease.
Be careful
Rare cases of liver injury have been linked to reishi powder. May lower blood pressure and blood sugar and increase bleeding with blood thinners. Tell your cancer doctor before using it during treatment.

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Common questions

What is Reishi?

A medicinal mushroom (Ganoderma) used in Chinese medicine for centuries; sold as slices, powder, spore powder and extract.

Why do people take Reishi?

Immunity, sleep, longevity, and support during cancer treatment.

Does Reishi work?

Most research is in the lab or small human studies. There is no reliable evidence that it treats cancer or any other disease.

Is Reishi safe?

Rare cases of liver injury have been linked to reishi powder. May lower blood pressure and blood sugar and increase bleeding with blood thinners. Tell your cancer doctor before using it during treatment.

Sources and further reading

National Cancer Institute: medicinal mushrooms

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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