Reishi: The "Mushroom of Immortality"

     The common name "Reishi" is derived from the Japanese language, where in the 15th century it was so revered, only the emperor was allowed to possess it. With a storied history that stretches back thousands of years. Often referred to as the "divine mushroom" and the "mushroom of immortality," Reishi held a place of high esteem in traditional Chinese medicine. Although the exact historical timeline of its medicinal use is debated, the earliest visual references appear in Taoist art from the 1400s, and its therapeutic use was first documented during the Ming Dynasty in 1590. Modern medicinal mentions of Reishi only began to emerge in the 20th century.

     Reishi, scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum, thrives in Eastern Asia on the dead hardwood stumps and logs of deciduous and sometimes coniferous trees in both tropical and temperate climates. As a saprotrophic mushroom, Reishi feeds on dead organic matter, playing a crucial role in the decomposition process. Although it is rare in the wild, it can be commercially cultivated relatively easily on wood chips and sawdust. Interestingly, the first wild Reishi specimen ever found in Thailand was only discovered in 2019.

     Cultivation of Reishi began in the 1970s, allowing for broader availability. The species name "lucidum" is derived from the Latin word "lucidus," meaning "shiny" or "bright," describing the fungus's glossy upper surface. Reishi is a polypore fungus, which means it releases spores from tiny pores on its underside for reproduction in the wild. This fungus will grow in totally different shapes depending on its access to fresh air. Unrestricted access to fresh airflow produces flat, broad shapes (pictured above). Restricting airflow makes the fungus 'reach' for it as it grows, developing into an  antler-like shape instead (pictured below). Adjusting airflow during growth can develop some really funky shapes!

     Reishi mushrooms are renowned for their wide range of beneficial properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects. They have been used to support mood, manage stress, and improve sleep. Ongoing research is exploring their potential in treating metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Key bioactive compounds found in Reishi include triterpenoid, polysaccharides, germanium, peptides, and enzymes. It's a great addition to a routine to help keep all systems go.

     In addition to their health benefits for humans, cultivating Reishi can also benefit indoor plants. Mushrooms, like humans, breathe in oxygen and emit CO2. Growing mushrooms next to your plants can boost their strength and growth, leading to healthier plants that in turn provide more benefits for you.

Sources:

1. Lingzhi: Ganoderma lucidum, The Chinese Mushroom of Immortality 
2. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd Edition
3. ScienceDaily: Medicinal Mushroom Discovered In Thailand
4. Exploring the Potential Medicinal Benefits of Ganoderma lucidum: From Metabolic Disorders to Coronavirus Infections