Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) - potential side effects and adverse reactions
Mushrooms Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), also known as "mushrooms of immortality," have held a unique place in traditional Asian medicine for thousands of years, and their unique health properties have been prized for generations to come. Used in Chinese and Japanese medicine, they have earned a reputation as a natural remedy for the all-around functioning of the body, so they are considered a symbol of longevity and health. A wealth of bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides, triterpenes and other immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substances, enables Reishi mushrooms to support the immune system, which is extremely important in protecting against infections and chronic diseases. Their regular use can help improve cardiovascular function by helping to lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure, as well as support liver health by intensifying detoxification processes. In addition, Reishi's adaptogenic properties affect the balance of the nervous system, improving the body's response to stress, reducing tension and contributing to better sleep quality and overall mental well-being. As a result, these mushrooms are a comprehensive dietary supplement that not only strengthens individual body systems, but also improves overall health, making them one of nature's most valuable gifts in terms of promoting longevity and vitality.
Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) - side effects and adverse reactions
Although Reishi mushrooms are generally considered safe when used as directed, there are reports of possible side effects, especially with prolonged or high dosages. It is noteworthy that most users do not experience negative effects when these formulations are used at recommended doses, but some people may notice some adverse symptoms. Among the most commonly reported adverse effects are gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea, diarrhea or stomach irritation, which can occur as a result of overexposure to the fungus' bioactive components. In addition, in rare cases, some users have reported dry mouth, as well as allergic reactions in the form of itching or skin rashes. It should also be noted that some studies suggest that with high doses of Reishi mushrooms, there may be an effect on blood clotting, which is a potential risk for people taking anticoagulation drugs. Therefore, despite the overall recognized safety of Reishi mushrooms, those considering long-term use or increasing doses should exercise caution and consult a physician to rule out the risk of negative interactions with other therapies or conditions being used.
- Gastrointestinal problems: Some users may experience discomforts such as diarrhea, nausea or stomach irritation. These symptoms often subside after reducing the dose or discontinuing use.
- Dry mouth and itching: In rare cases, allergic reactions are observed, which may manifest as dry mouth, itching or skin rash.
- Blood clotting disorders: Some studies suggest that Reishi mushrooms may affect blood clotting. In people taking anticoagulants or with clotting disorders, the use of Reishi may increase the risk of bleeding.
Reishi interactions with drugs - potential side effects and adverse reactions
Reishi mushrooms contain a number of bioactive substances that can interact with drug metabolism, leading to potential interactions with other pharmaceutical preparations. These substances, such as polysaccharides, triterpenes and various phenolic compounds, can affect the enzymes responsible for drug metabolism, including cytochrome P450 isoforms, which play a key role in the conversion and elimination of many drug substances. As a result, drug absorption, distribution and elimination can be modified, leading in some cases to increased or decreased efficacy, as well as increased side effects. Therefore, people who use drugs on a regular basis, especially those with a narrow therapeutic index, should pay special attention to the possibility of interactions if they take Reishi mushroom preparations at the same time.
Additionally, interactions may involve not only medications, but also dietary supplements or herbs that affect similar metabolic pathways, underscoring the need to consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting Reishi supplementation. It's also worth noting that these reactions can vary depending on a patient's individual metabolic conditions, as well as the dose and form of the product, making clinical monitoring and detailed analysis of potential interactions crucial to the safe use of Reishi mushrooms.
- Anticoagulants: Due to potential effects on blood clotting, people on anticoagulants should consult a doctor before starting supplementation.
- Immunosuppressive drugs: As Reishi can stimulate the immune system, there is a risk that they may reduce the effectiveness of immunosuppressive drugs used, for example, in organ transplant patients or in autoimmune diseases.
- Drugs that lower blood pressure: The effect of Reishi mushrooms on blood pressure regulation may intensify the effects of anti-hypertensive drugs, which in some cases may lead to excessive blood pressure lowering.
Who should be careful with Reishi supplementation? - Potential side effects and adverse reactions
While Reishi mushrooms can provide many health benefits, they are not suitable for everyone. People who should exercise extreme caution or consult a doctor before taking Reishi mushroom supplements include, but are not limited to:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women - There are specific physiological changes during pregnancy and lactation, and the safety of Reishi mushrooms has not been sufficiently studied in these groups. Therefore, pregnant women and lactating mothers should avoid supplementation without consulting a doctor so as not to expose themselves or the baby to unnecessary risks.
- Persons taking medications on a permanent basis - Reishi mushrooms, through their effects on drug metabolism and the immune system, can affect the effects of concurrently taken pharmaceutical preparations. Particular care should be taken by those taking anticoagulants, immunosuppressants or blood pressure-lowering drugs, as there is a risk of interactions that can alter the effectiveness and safety of therapy.
- Patients with autoimmune diseases - Due to the immunomodulatory effects of Reishi mushrooms, people with autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis may experience an increase in symptoms. In such cases, Reishi supplementation should be consulted with a healthcare practitioner to adjust dosage accordingly or consider alternative methods of immune system support.
- People with chronic diseases and metabolic disorders - In patients with chronic diseases, including diabetes or liver conditions, any change in diet or supplementation can affect the course of the disease and interactions with medications taken. In such situations, a medical consultation is very important, allowing an individualized assessment of the potential benefits and risks of using Reishi.
- Individuals with individual hypersensitivity or allergies - In some cases, allergic reactions to Reishi mushroom ingredients, such as rashes, itching and dry mouth, have been observed. Individuals who are prone to food allergies or have allergic reactions to other mushrooms should be particularly careful when introducing Reishi supplements into their diets and start with smaller doses to monitor any reactions.
In conclusion, although Reishi mushrooms are generally considered safe and may offer a broad spectrum of health benefits, people with the listed risk groups should approach their use with caution. Consulting with a physician or health professional before beginning supplementation is crucial to avoid potential interactions and side effects, and to ensure that the introduction of Reishi is an effective and safe addition to therapy.
Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)
The claims made refer to studies on the adaptogens Hericium Erinaceus, Ganoderma Lucidum, Cordyceps Militaris, Ashwagandha and Coriolus Versicolor not on Encann® brand products. These are not claims regarding the medicinal properties of the product offered. In accordance with the wording of EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT REGULATION 1924/2006, verifiable scientific evidence regarding studies on the use of the fungus Sophora Hedgehog- one of the ingredients of the offered product- is presented on this page.
