What is the effective dose of Reishi?

500–1000 mg/day (oral extract, based on limited clinical data)

People with autoimmune diseases (lupus, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis) should use caution — a systematic review identified reishi as one of 15 herbs with strong immunostimulatory evidence that may trigger or worsen autoimmune flares.

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Last verified: 46 days ago

Reishi

Also known as: Ganoderma lucidum, Lingzhi, Reishi Mushroom, GLT, GLP

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Traditional mushroom with immune and stress effects; promising but limited human trial evidence.

What it does

Reishi is a medicinal mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) used for centuries in East Asian traditional medicine. In small human trials, 1000 mg/day for 30 days showed modest improvements in...
Evidence quality

Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
Clinical dose

500–1000 mg/day (oral extract, based on limited clinical data)
Found in

AG1 (Athletic Greens), Anima Mundi Adaptogenic Powder, Holland & Barrett Sunscreen and 11 more

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What the Science Says

Reishi is a medicinal mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) used for centuries in East Asian traditional medicine. In small human trials, 1000 mg/day for 30 days showed modest improvements in cardiovascular fitness markers, anxiety, and depression scores in sedentary young women. Animal studies suggest it may protect muscle tissue under stress and reduce inflammation, but these findings have not been confirmed in humans.

What It Doesn't Do

Not proven to treat or prevent cancer — one trial in lung cancer patients showed no statistically significant quality-of-life benefit. No solid evidence it extends lifespan or acts as a true 'longevity tonic.' Won't reliably boost immunity in a meaningful, measurable way for healthy people. Not a substitute for medical treatment for any condition. Topical reishi skin benefits are lab-based only — no human skin trials provided.

Evidence-Based Benefits

Reishi is known for its potential immune-boosting properties, supported by multiple systematic reviews and clinical trials. It may help enhance immune function and has been investigated for its anti-inflammatory effects.

Strong Evidence

Effective at: 1.5-9 g daily

Source: auto-research

Absorption & Bioavailability

Unknown for most active compounds. One study explored sublingual delivery of triterpenoids to improve bioavailability, suggesting standard oral absorption may be suboptimal. No human pharmacokinetic data provided.

Red Flags to Watch For

People with autoimmune diseases (lupus, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis) should use caution — a systematic review identified reishi as one of 15 herbs with strong immunostimulatory evidence that may trigger or worsen autoimmune flares.
Most human trials are very small (n=78 or fewer) and short-term (30 days); long-term safety in humans is not established from the provided studies.
Cancer patients commonly use reishi expecting immune benefits, but evidence is insufficient and it may interact with chemotherapy — always disclose use to your oncologist.
Cost is a major barrier cited by patients, and products vary widely in extract type and potency — no standardization is guaranteed.

Supplement

Overhyped

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Research Sources

PubMed
NIH DSLD

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06