Reishi, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, is a revered herb in traditional Chinese medicine and has been used for its numerous health benefits for thousands of years. This herb is known for its unique shape, which resembles a fan with a shiny, reddish-brown cap and white pores underneath. Reishi is primarily used for its immune-boosting properties, but it has many other benefits as well.
Herbal Actions:
Reishi is known for its adaptogenic properties, meaning it can help the body adapt to stress and restore balance. It has been shown to modulate the immune system, enhance liver function, reduce inflammation, and support cardiovascular health. It is also a potent antioxidant, protecting the body against oxidative stress and free radical damage. Additionally, Reishi has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making it a valuable herb for fighting infections.
Folklore:
Reishi has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years and is considered one of the most revered herbs in Chinese pharmacopeia. It was believed to promote longevity, enhance spiritual awareness, and promote overall vitality. In ancient China, Reishi was reserved for royalty and was often referred to as the “mushroom of immortality.” It was also associated with the Daoist concept of “wu wei,” which means “non-action” or “effortless action.”
Energetics:
In Chinese medicine, Reishi is considered a tonic herb that nourishes the Qi (life force energy) and blood. It is also known for its ability to calm the Shen (spirit) and promote mental clarity. Reishi has a bitter taste and a neutral to slightly warm energy, making it suitable for all body types.
Spiritual References:
Reishi is often used in spiritual practices and is believed to have a profound effect on consciousness. It has been referred to as the “herb of spiritual potency” and is associated with the heart and crown chakras. Reishi is believed to promote inner peace, emotional balance, and spiritual growth. It is also said to enhance intuition and psychic abilities.
In conclusion, Reishi is a powerful herb that has been used for its numerous health benefits for thousands of years. It is known for its immune-boosting properties, adaptogenic properties, and ability to promote overall vitality. Reishi has a rich history in traditional Chinese medicine and is associated with spiritual growth and consciousness. If you’re looking for a natural way to support your health and well-being, Reishi may be a valuable addition to your wellness routine.
REISHI (Ganoderma Lucidum)
Family: Ganodermataceae
Parts Used: Fruiting Body
Taste: Earthy, Bitter
Herbal Actions: Immune Tonic, Antioxidant, Respiratory Tonic.
Immune Tonic – Reishi is best understood as an immune tonic acting deeper on the immune system, used to strengthen the vital reserve and build up core immunity- rather than superficially stimulating the peripheral immune system.
Antioxidant – Organisms (plants and fungi) that carry antioxidants have the ability to help reduce or prevent cancers and other chronic diseases as they protect cellular
components from oxidative damage.
Respiratory tonic – As a trophorestorative or tonic here Reishi will restore the proper function and structure of these tissues that has become damaged or debilitated due to
chronic stress or illness. This could be chronic respiratory tract infections, those exposed to aromatic toxins, or smokers. Reishi will help build up the overall strength of the lungs.
Affinities: Immune, Respiratory, Cardiovascular System.
Energetics: Warming, Moistening, Relaxing.
Jason Scott- “What I’ve found with the energetics and humoral properties of mushrooms is that they aren’t going to aggravate one way or another. For example, Reishi is considered warm, but typically won’t be too warm for someone that’s already hot. Lion’s Mane isn’t going to be too cool and moist for someone that’s already cool and moist. So while they have energetic qualities, they are for the most part, relatively neutral.”.
Specific Indications:
When I think of the perfect reishi person it’s someone whose vital force is extremely weak, Consistently sick, thin/frail skin & hair, and malnutrition. Walking skeleton.
Act directly upon our consciousness and instill a sense of peace of mind and open up our consciousness to higher levels of awareness, initiate our personal growth and psychological development.
“Reishi is believed to lead you into deeper states of inner knowledge, and wisdom. You are able to go deeper inside yourself. It is the premier herb for people that want to meditate or have a spiritual practice. The calm that it gives you is unlike any other calm I know…. Take Reishi every day and you will be a different human person, a permanent realignment with a deeper part of yourself.” (Matthew Becker)
