Ganoderma lucidum or reishi mushroom is a fan-shaped and orange-in-colour, available for royals in Asia centuries ago, and is a rare mushroom type. That’s why it is called ‘The king of mushrooms.’ These are grown commercially and include many products for sale, like tinctures, tea, capsules, beauty products and reishi mushroom powder. Why are mushrooms being used as the main ingredient in these products? Simply put in words, the mushroom benefits the immune system and liver functions. The stress-buster and antioxidant qualities make the mushroom in high demand. The high demand for reishi mushrooms in Australia proves the health benefits of mushrooms are authentic.

Improve immune system
The main reason it is in high demand in the wellness industry is that reishi mushrooms benefit the human immune system. Mushrooms have a certain polysaccharide called beta-glucans. It strengthens immune health. Its immunomodulating effects boost the hormonal balance. Many research has proved that beta-glucans in mushrooms prevent new blood vessel growth and act as key ingredients for the growth of cancer cells.
The mushroom is also beneficial in chemotherapy-induced nausea.

Facts: In ancient Asia cultures, the mushroom is used as an immunostimulant for patients with HIV and cancer.

Reduce anxiety and depression
Reishi mushrooms are adaptogens, and are a plant that helps the body fight stress. The persons suffering from neurasthenia who consume the mushroom have improvements in aches, pains and irritability.

Researchers proved that people who consume mushrooms even for two days had lower odds of depression than those who did not intake mushrooms. It is because it has vitamin B-12, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components.

Good for the brain
Scientists proved that the mushroom works well on neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and protects the brain against seizures.

Supports liver functioning
The mushroom has hepatoprotective properties that support the liver. Health is important for the effective management of blood sugar and allergies.

Restful sleep and a calm mind
The mushroom eases the mind while reducing stress and helps promote sleep. The study shows the microbiome, and the serotine in the mushroom improves sleep. This is the reason reishi was called ‘calming the mind.’ Study about cold and flu infections, the mashroom extract with the medicine helps promote sleep.

Promotes blood sugar level
Research about reishi mushroom benefits in maintaining blood sugar level at a healthy level.

How to include reishi mushrooms in the diet?
Even the mushroom is available in powdered form to provide benefits. The reishi mushroom powder is included in various recipes to get health benefits and improve the taste of the food.

Brownies recipe

Ingredients

● Coconut oil ½ cup
● Cacao powder ½ cup +1 tbsp
● Chocolate 60g
● Cacao butter 20g
● Honey ½ cup
● Maple syrup ½ cup
● Vanilla ½ tsp
● Eggs 3
● Coconut flour ¼ cup +2 tbsp
● Baking soda ¼ tsp
● Salt ¼ tsp
● Reishi mushroom powder 1tbsp

Option: cashew butter, chocolate chips

Instructions

● Preheat oven to 360 degrees
● Take a brownie baking pan and spread a layer of coconut oil.
● Add coconut oil, cacao powder, chocolate, and cacao powder and boil & heat until melted. Remove from the heat and pour into a separate cool bowl. Let it cool
● Pour honey, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs. Then mix well
● Add the remaining ingredients and whisk well to make a smooth paste
● Pour the batter into the brownie trays
● Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked

Conclusion

Reishi mushroom has several health benefits, and it is easier to include the mushroom in the diet. However, keep in mind that the mushroom will show its effect only when it is consumed on a daily basis. Irregularities in consumption won't have the same benefits as expected. The results may differ as the internal system, and adaptability to a particular product are unique features.