Adaptogen
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum s.l.)
Also known as: Ganoderma lucidum, lingzhi, reishi extract, reishi mycelium
Reishi is a polypore mushroom used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine as an adaptogenic tonic for stress, sleep, and immune support. Moderate clinical evidence supports anxiolytic and sleep-promoting effects.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Primary uses
- stress reduction
- sleep support
- immune support
- relaxation
How it works
- polysaccharide and triterpene-mediated adaptogenic effects
- GABAergic pathway modulation
- immunomodulation
- stress hormone regulation
Dosage
- Typical range
- 1,000–2,500 mg daily (dried mycelium biomass); extract forms often 300–900 mg
- Timing
- evening for sleep support; morning/throughout day for general adaptogenic effects
- With food
- may be taken with or without food
- Duration
- Safe for long-term chronic use; benefits may emerge over 4–12 weeks
- Special populations
- Pregnant/nursing women should consult healthcare provider; immunosuppressed patients should check with provider
Forms
- mycelium biomass on rice· 70/100
- extract· 70/100
- powder· 70/100
- standardized extract· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- rare: mild GI upset, dizziness
- occasional dry mouth
Contraindications
- immunosuppressant therapy (theoretical concern)
- bleeding disorders (high-dose triterpenes theoretically anticoagulant)
Products containing Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum s.l.)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum s.l.) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
See all products →
Evidence notes
Multiple human trials show benefits for sleep, anxiety, and immune markers. Evidence is moderate quality; some studies are small or lack rigorous controls, but consistent benefit signals exist.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Adaptogen
Check a full stack
Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.
Open the checkerWhere does Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum s.l.) fit in your stack?
Answer two questions and get a stack graded on research — every ingredient scored on the evidence behind it, not the marketing.
Build my stack2 questions · free · no account needed to start
Also on iPhone — get the free app
Evidence-based supplement guides, no spam
We send a short digest when new guides drop — nothing else. No affiliate pushes, no sponsored content, unsubscribe anytime.
Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.