Reishi, also known as Lingzhi, is a wood-decaying mushroom that has been traditionally used in Asia for several centuries. In dietary supplements, it is particularly studied for its natural composition of polysaccharides, beta-glucans and triterpenoids, among many other constituents.
Also read: our comparisons “Reishi or Lion’s Mane” and “Chaga or Reishi”, as well as our Reishi page.
The scientific name Ganoderma lucidum is commonly used to refer to Reishi in the literature and in commerce. However, the taxonomy of the genus Ganoderma is more complex, and some Asian populations sold under the name G. lucidum are now classified separately as Ganoderma lingzhi. This distinction can be important when comparing different raw materials.
History & heritage: the “Mushroom of Immortality”
The history of Reishi is closely linked to the medicinal traditions of East Asia.
In Chinese tradition, Lingzhi has held a special place for more than two thousand years. It was associated with longevity, balance and vitality, and its rarity in the wild contributed to its symbolic status.
Traditional expressions such as “Mushroom of Immortality” or “Herb of Spiritual Power” are part of this ancient cultural heritage. They do not constitute modern medical evidence of its effects.
Today, Reishi is the subject of scientific research, particularly into its polysaccharides, triterpenoids and their potential biological properties. However, a leading scientific review notes that much of the available evidence still comes from preclinical studies, and further clinical research is needed to establish robust conclusions in humans.
Scientific reference: Ahmad MF et al. (2021), “Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) an edible mushroom; a comprehensive and critical review of its nutritional, cosmeceutical, mycochemical, pharmacological, clinical, and toxicological properties”, Phytotherapy Research.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34411377/
What is Reishi and how does it work?
Reishi is a wood-decaying mushroom that grows naturally on wood, particularly on broadleaf trees. Its fruiting body is easy to recognise by its distinctive appearance: a hard, shiny cap, usually reddish-brown to deep red.
Its composition is of particular interest to mycological research. Among the most studied constituents are:
- polysaccharides, including various beta-glucans;
- triterpenoids, including ganoderic acids and other related compounds;
- sterols and ergosterol derivatives;
- various other compounds whose concentrations may vary depending on the species, part of the mushroom, and growing and extraction conditions.
There is extensive research on Reishi polysaccharides and triterpenoids. However, results obtained in the laboratory or in animals should not automatically be interpreted as proven effects in humans.
Premium quality: fruiting body vs. mycelium
When choosing a Reishi supplement, it is important to know exactly which raw material is used.
PURE CROFT’s choice: 100% fruiting body
The fruiting body is the visible, reproductive structure of the mushroom. PURE CROFT uses exclusively Reishi from the fruiting body in its extracts.
We made this choice as a formulation and traceability criterion: our raw material is clearly defined and does not come from mycelium grown on a grain substrate.
What about grain-grown mycelium?
Mycelium is the network of microscopic filaments that forms the vegetative part of the mushroom. It can be grown on various substrates, including grain-based substrates.
This does not mean that all mycelium products are identical or of poor quality. However, the substrate used for cultivation is part of the raw material and may affect the composition of the finished product.
At PURE CROFT, we have chosen a different approach: 100% fruiting-body material, with no grain-grown mycelium.
Why is the Reishi extraction method important?
Understanding chitin and extraction
Mushrooms have cell walls containing, among other things, chitin and other structural polysaccharides. The process used to turn the mushroom into an extract can therefore affect the compounds extracted, their concentration and the characteristics of the finished product.
Scientific literature describes various methods for extracting polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum, including aqueous extraction and several assisted extraction techniques. Extraction conditions can affect the structure and characteristics of the resulting polysaccharides.
Scientific reference: review on Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides and their extraction mechanisms, International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32035956/
It is important, however, to distinguish the effectiveness of an extraction method from bioavailability demonstrated in humans. An extraction process can alter an extract’s profile, but that alone does not demonstrate greater absorption or a greater physiological effect.
At PURE CROFT, we therefore focus on measurable criteria: defined raw material, extraction ratio, serving size and analytical testing.
The potency of a 10:1 extract
Concentration is another important factor to understand.
Our formula uses a 10:1 extract. This ratio means that 10 parts of raw material are used to obtain 1 part of extract, according to the scope defined for the product.
For a 10:1 Reishi extract, 1 kg of extract therefore corresponds to the equivalent of 10 kg of raw material used for extraction, according to this ratio.
When 1 ml of our formula provides 666 mg of 10:1 extract, this corresponds mathematically to an equivalent of 6,660 mg of raw material according to the stated ratio.
However, it is essential to clarify that a DER of 10:1 does not mean that the extract contains ten times more active compounds or is automatically ten times more effective.
The DER describes the ratio between the raw material and the extract obtained. On its own, it does not indicate the concentration of beta-glucans, triterpenoids or other specific constituents.
For this reason, testing the finished product remains essential to accurately assess an extract’s composition.
Reishi’s taste profile: natural bitterness
On its own, Reishi has a pronounced taste profile, generally described as bitter and woody.
Some triterpenoids found in Reishi, including ganoderic acids, are studied for their contribution to the chemical and characteristic taste profile of certain Ganoderma raw materials.
Scientific reference: study on Ganoderma triterpenoids and their contribution to bitterness.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27044336/
To make daily use more enjoyable, PURE CROFT combines its Reishi extract with a coconut-derived MCT oil base and natural citrus notes.
The result is a liquid format designed to fit easily into a daily routine, without the texture of a powder or the alcohol-like sensation of a hydroalcoholic tincture.
How can you add Reishi to your routine?
Directions for use
The PURE CROFT liquid format is designed for simple, precise use.
Depending on the product, the dose can be dispensed using a dropper or metered spray. Always follow the daily serving indicated on the label of the product in question.
Reishi can therefore be added to a daily routine by following the directions for use or, where indicated, mixed into a drink.
When to take it may depend on the formula and individual preferences. Reishi therefore does not need to be presented as a product intended exclusively for evening use.
Precautions for use
Reishi has been used for a long time in Asian traditions and has been the subject of some human safety studies. However, the available clinical data remain limited and do not support claims of proven safety with long-term use in all populations.
In a small randomised controlled study involving 16 healthy volunteers, a Ganoderma lucidum preparation administered for 10 days did not cause more adverse effects than the placebo. The authors nevertheless noted that longer and larger safety studies were needed.
Scientific reference: Wicks et al. (2007), randomised, double-blind study of the safety and tolerability of Ganoderma lucidum in healthy subjects.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17597499/
As a precaution, consult a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, taking medication, have a known medical condition or are due to undergo surgery.
Particular caution is advised if you are taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication. Some experimental evidence has examined the effects of Ganoderma on platelet aggregation, but this does not establish a consistent interaction in humans.
A dietary supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet or a healthy lifestyle.
FAQ: answers to your questions about Reishi
Does Reishi have any side effects?
Available human data on Reishi tolerability remain limited. In a small, 10-day controlled study involving 16 healthy volunteers, the extract studied did not cause more adverse effects than the placebo.
As with any dietary supplement, an individual reaction is possible. If you are receiving medical treatment, especially anticoagulant or antiplatelet medication, consult a healthcare professional before use.
What is Reishi?
Reishi, also known as Lingzhi, is a wood-decaying mushroom of the genus Ganoderma, traditionally used in Asia. It is particularly studied for its composition of polysaccharides, beta-glucans and triterpenoids.
Which part of Reishi does PURE CROFT use?
PURE CROFT uses exclusively Reishi fruiting bodies, with no grain-grown mycelium.
What does “100% fruiting body” mean?
It means that the raw material used for the extract comes from the mushroom’s fruiting body, not from mycelium grown on a grain substrate.
What is the difference between the fruiting body and mycelium?
The fruiting body is the visible, reproductive structure of the mushroom. Mycelium consists of a network of microscopic filaments forming the vegetative part of the mushroom.
These two raw materials may have different compositions depending on the species, growing conditions and process used.
PURE CROFT has chosen to use exclusively the fruiting body in its Reishi extracts.
What does a 10:1 Reishi extract mean?
A DER of 10:1 means that the ratio between the raw material used and the extract obtained is 10 to 1, according to the scope defined for the extract.
The DER does not mean that the extract automatically contains ten times more active compounds or is ten times more effective.
Does a 10:1 DER guarantee a high concentration of beta-glucans?
No. The DER indicates the ratio between raw material and extract, but on its own does not reveal the concentration of beta-glucans or triterpenoids.
These parameters require appropriate testing of the finished product.
Has Reishi been studied scientifically?
Yes. Reishi has been the subject of extensive research, particularly on its polysaccharides, beta-glucans and triterpenoids.
However, a significant part of the literature remains preclinical, and further high-quality clinical studies are needed to establish robust conclusions about its effects in humans.
Is Reishi naturally bitter?
Yes. Reishi naturally has a bitter, woody taste profile. Some triterpenoids, including ganoderic acids, are associated with the characteristic chemical profile of certain Ganoderma raw materials.
Why does PURE CROFT use Reishi extract?
PURE CROFT uses Reishi extract sourced exclusively from the fruiting body and formulated at a 10:1 extraction ratio. The liquid formula makes it practical to use and easy to dose precisely as part of a daily routine.
Can Reishi be combined with other functional mushrooms?
Several mushrooms can be combined in the same formula. PURE CROFT offers formulas combining Reishi with Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga and Shiitake.
However, the fact that several mushrooms are traditionally or commonly combined does not in itself constitute clinical evidence of a synergistic effect in humans.
In summary
Reishi is a traditional mushroom whose composition — particularly its polysaccharides, beta-glucans and triterpenoids — has been the subject of extensive research.
For PURE CROFT, the quality of an extract rests on several complementary factors:
- 100% fruiting body
- Clearly defined raw material
- 10:1 extract
- Precise serving size
- MCT-based liquid formulation
- Traceability
- Batch-by-batch analytical testing
Our approach is to prioritise measurable, transparent information while clearly distinguishing between tradition, preclinical research and the available clinical data.
Scientific references
Ahmad MF et al. (2021) — “Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) an edible mushroom; a comprehensive and critical review of its nutritional, cosmeceutical, mycochemical, pharmacological, clinical, and toxicological properties”, Phytotherapy Research.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34411377/
Zhou et al. (2020) — Review on Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides and extraction mechanisms, International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32035956/
Wicks et al. (2007) — Randomised, double-blind study on the safety and tolerability of Ganoderma lucidum in healthy subjects.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17597499/
European Medicines Agency (EMA) — Information and recommendations on the Drug Extract Ratio (DER).
https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/scientific-guideline/guideline-declaration-herbal-substances-and-herbal-preparations-herbal-medicinal-productstraditional-herbal-medicinal-products-spc_en.pdf
