Reishi Mushrooms: Bitter Wood-Like Caps with 2 g β-Glucan & 18 kcal per 10-g Slice (Dried)
Known as the âmushroom of immortalityâ, reishi is simmered into tea or powder for its polysaccharides and triterpenes that may modulate immunity and calm stress.
What Is Reishi?
**_Ganoderma lucidum_** (Chinese *lingzhi*, Japanese *reishi*) is a hard, varnished conk that grows on hardwood stumps. Too tough to sautĂŠ, itâs consumed as dried slices, powder or extract.
Nutrition (10 g dried slice, simmered)
|Calories|Protein|Carbs|Fiber|Fat|β-Glucan|Potassium|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|18 kcal|1.2 g|3.4 g|2.0 g|0.3 g|â 2.0 g|160 mg|
Benefits (Research-Based & Traditional)
- **β-glucan polysaccharides** may prime innate immunity (NK-cell & macrophage activity).
- **Triterpenes (ganoderic acids)** show anti-inflammatory & liver-protective effects in pre-clinical studies.
- Used in TCM to **reduce fatigue & support stress resilience** as an adaptogen.
Drawbacks & Safety
- Strong bitterness; high doses (> 5 g extract) may cause nausea or dry mouth.
- Possible interaction with anticoagulants & anti-hypertensivesâconsult physician.
- Long decoctions can stain cookware a deep mahogany.
Flavour & Aroma
**Woody, bitter, slight maple-bark aroma**; best balanced with ginger, citrus or cacao.
Culinary / Herbal Uses & Storage
- **Decoction**: simmer 10 g slices in 1 L water 30 min; sip or blend with chai spices.
- **Powder**: ½ tsp in smoothies, coffee or energy balls.
- **Double-extracted tincture** for concentrated triterpenes.
- Store slices/powder airtight, dark cupboard ⤠24 months.
- 1. Reishi Mushrooms