Health-Enhancing Applications of Red Reishi

Throughout the ages, the consumption of red Reishi has been linked to the treatment of a vast range of diseases, common ailments, and conditions. From asthma to zoster, the applications of red Reishi seem to be related to a multitude of body organs and systems.

Although some product manufacturers use this information as proof that red Reishi can be used to treat these maladies directly, there is no sufficient medical evidence to support this claim to date. However, most of the scientific research that has been conducted appears to strongly support red Reishi’s role as a normalizing substance - a nutritional supplement that can yield medical benefits through its normalization and regulation of the body’s organs and functions.

The previous posting provided a general outline of the overall benefits derived from the consumption of red Reishi. The following is a list of specific conditions for which regular consumption of red Reishi and products consisting of authentic red Reishi extract has been shown to have some beneficial effects. Please note that although many of the medical applications listed below have been supported by researchers in both the medical and nutritional science fields, the information below should be treated as observations gathered over time based on individual cases, and not a guarantee or endorsement of Reishi’s effectiveness. For specific case reports or data, please consult a physician with an expertise in Chinese medicine. Research studies and additional information can be obtained through libraries or found on the internet. You may also contact your local health organizations.

Conditions Related to Blood Circulation
It has been thought that red Reishi extract can reduce the coagulation of blood by decreasing platelet aggregation (cells that form clots), similar to aspirin. In addition, it is possible that it is able to transform red blood cells, and make them more malleable to travel through blood vessels at greater ease, reducing the chances of clogging, which could lead to strokes and heart attacks. Improved circulation is extremely important in diabetics, who invariably develop small artery disease.

Heart Conditions
Several cardiovascular benefits have been demonstrated from the regular consumption of red Reishi. These include:
• correction of some arrhythmias due to stress
• lowering of "BAD" LDL cholesterol and Triglycerides (another type of blood fat)
• lowering of blood pressure - demonstrated in published human studies
• improved blood circulation, with all of the benefits outlined above.