What are the side effects of Lingzhi (Reishi mushroom)?
Feb 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) is a herbal medicine used to calm the mind. It is the dried fruiting body of the fungus Ganoderma lucidum or Ganoderma sinense from the family Polyporaceae, and has functions of invigorating qi, calming the mind, relieving cough, and alleviating wheezing. Possible side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort, dizziness, heatiness (excess internal heat), sleep disturbances, and increased burden on the liver. It is advisable to consult a qualified physician or traditional Chinese medicine practitioner before using Ganoderma lucidum, to determine whether it is suitable for your individual condition.
Generally, Ganoderma lucidum is the dried fruiting body of the Ganodermataceae family of fungi, specifically the species Ganoderma lucidum or Ganoderma sinense. It has functions of replenishing qi, calming the mind, relieving cough, and alleviating asthma. Possible side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort, dizziness, heatiness, sleep disturbances, and increased burden on the liver. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Gastrointestinal discomfort
Ganoderma lucidum may cause some irritation to the gastrointestinal tract. Some individuals may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea after consumption. This could be due to Ganoderma lucidum affecting the normal digestive and peristaltic functions of the gastrointestinal system. People with inherently weak gastrointestinal function or those taking Ganoderma lucidum on an empty stomach are more prone to encounter such issues.
2. Dizziness
A small number of individuals may experience dizziness after consuming Ganoderma lucidum. This may be because Ganoderma lucidum exerts certain effects on the nervous system, interfering with its normal regulatory functions, leading to temporary abnormalities in cerebral blood circulation or nerve conduction. Symptoms usually gradually subside after discontinuation of the substance.
3. Heatiness
Ganoderma lucidum has a slightly warm nature. For individuals with a constitution tending toward heat or those with a hot body type, excessive or long-term consumption may lead to excessive internal heat, manifesting as symptoms of heatiness such as dry mouth and throat, sore throat, bleeding gums, and constipation.
4. Sleep disturbances
Although Ganoderma lucidum has certain calming and mind-soothing effects, some individuals may experience worsened sleep problems such as insomnia and vivid dreams after consumption. This may be due to individual differences causing opposite effects on the nervous system regulation, or due to inappropriate dosage or timing of consumption.
5. Increased burden on the liver
Ganoderma lucidum needs to be metabolized by the liver, and long-term or excessive consumption may increase the liver's workload. For individuals with pre-existing liver dysfunction or liver disease, this may affect normal liver function, leading to abnormal liver function indicators such as elevated transaminase levels.
Before using Ganoderma lucidum, it is best to consult the opinion of a professional physician or TCM expert to determine whether it is suitable for personal use, as well as the appropriate dosage and method of administration. If any discomfort occurs, Ganoderma lucidum should be discontinued immediately and medical attention sought promptly.
