Which groups of people should avoid consuming lingzhi (Reishi mushroom)?
Nov 25, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the following groups should avoid consuming lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum): individuals with internal heat due to yin deficiency, those allergic to lingzhi, pregnant women and infants, individuals with external contraction fevers, individuals with a tendency to bleed or those experiencing major bleeding. Specifically, prior to consuming lingzhi, one should consult a physician to ensure that their health condition is suitable for its consumption and to avoid unnecessary health risks.
Generally, the following groups of people should avoid consuming Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom): individuals with yin deficiency and internal heat, those allergic to Ganoderma lucidum, pregnant women and infants, individuals with external contraction accompanied by fever, individuals with a tendency to bleed or those experiencing major hemorrhage. Details are as follows:
1. Individuals with Yin Deficiency and Internal Heat: Those with internal heat due to yin deficiency usually have excessive internal fire. Ganoderma lucidum has functions of replenishing qi and blood, and nourishing the heart and calming the mind, which may intensify internal heat, thereby worsening symptoms such as dry throat and mouth, oral ulcers, constipation, and dark, scanty urine.
2. Individuals Allergic to Ganoderma lucidum: Those allergic to Ganoderma lucidum may experience allergic reactions such as itching skin, rashes, hives, and in severe cases, anaphylactic shock which can be life-threatening. Therefore, individuals allergic to Ganoderma lucidum should strictly avoid its consumption.
3. Pregnant Women and Infants: Consumption of Ganoderma lucidum by pregnant women may affect fetal development. For infants, whose organs are not fully developed, taking Ganoderma lucidum may burden the digestive system and negatively affect growth and development. Therefore, these two groups should be cautious about consuming Ganoderma lucidum.
4. Individuals with External Contraction Accompanied by Fever: Fever caused by external pathogens may be exacerbated by Ganoderma lucidum, which might intensify the pathogenic factors and worsen fever symptoms, thus being unfavorable to disease control and recovery. Therefore, individuals with external fever should avoid consuming Ganoderma lucidum during the febrile period.
5. Individuals with Bleeding Tendencies or Major Hemorrhage Patients: Ganoderma lucidum has certain effects in inhibiting platelet aggregation and anticoagulation. For individuals with bleeding tendencies or those experiencing major hemorrhage, consuming Ganoderma lucidum may worsen bleeding and slow down recovery. Therefore, such individuals should avoid consuming Ganoderma lucidum during the bleeding period or before their condition stabilizes.
Before consuming Ganoderma lucidum, it is necessary to consult a physician to ensure that one's health condition is suitable for its consumption and to avoid unnecessary health risks.
