Rasayana chhatraka (Reishi / Lingzhi Mushroom)
Reishi Mushroom (Reishi / Lingzhi Mushroom)
Ganoderma lucidum
The 'mushroom of immortality' — an adaptogenic tonic for immunity and calm sleep.
Reishi bracket mushroom · Herb · Parts: Fruiting body, Spore
- Taste (rasa)
- Bitter
- Energy (virya)
- Neutral
- Balances
- Vata, Pitta
What it is used for
Benefits
- Long-standing tonic use for immune resilience and recovery
- Calms an overstimulated mind and supports deeper sleep
- Traditionally taken during periods of prolonged stress and fatigue
How it has been used
Traditional uses & benefits
Called the mushroom of immortality in Chinese medicine and read as a rasayana in Ayurvedic terms — a slow tonic for shen (spirit) and immunity rather than a quick remedy.
Traditional uses
- Building resilience through long periods of stress
- Immune support during and after recovery
- Settling an overactive mind at night
Practical guidance
- 1It must be simmered for at least 45 minutes or taken as a dual extract — a quick steep extracts almost nothing.
- 2The bitterness is expected; sweeten with honey after the brew has cooled slightly.
- 3Give it 8–12 weeks. Reishi is cumulative, never dramatic.
How much
Dosage
1.5-3 g dried mushroom or 1 g dual-extract powder daily.
How to take it
Preparation & usage
Reishi decoction
Simmer sliced dried reishi in water for 45-60 minutes; the brew is meant to be bitter.
Late afternoon or evening
Extract in cocoa
Whisk 1 g extract powder into warm cocoa or milk with a little honey.
Evening
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Precautions
- Avoid with blood thinners or before surgery — may slow clotting
- Care if you take immunosuppressants
- Stop if it causes dryness of mouth, rash or upset stomach
Where this comes from
Sources
Where to buy
Shop this remedy
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