Calm, Clear Mind.
Reishi is one of the most revered mushrooms in traditional Asian medicine, with a history of use for thousands of years for a variety of beneficial uses, but primarily its relaxation-promoting effects.
Exploring the Calming Effects of Reishi Mushroom: Scientific Evidence and Health Benefits
The Reishi mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to promote overall health and longevity. Reishi is known for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body to adapt to stress and maintain homeostasis. One of the most notable benefits of Reishi is its ability to promote relaxation and calmness.
A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Reishi extract had a calming effect on mice in a maze test. The researchers concluded that Reishi has an anxiolytic, or anxiety-reducing, effect.(1)Another study in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that Reishi extract reduced anxiety and depression-like behavior in mice exposed to chronic stress. (2)
Reishi may also help to regulate the stress hormone cortisol. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that Reishi supplementation lowered cortisol levels in healthy adults compared to a placebo group.(3) High levels of cortisol can lead to anxiety and stress, so reducing cortisol levels may help to promote relaxation.
In addition to its anxiolytic effects, Reishi has been shown to promote better sleep quality. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that Reishi supplementation improved sleep quality in men and women with sleep disturbances. (4) Poor sleep quality can lead to increased stress and anxiety, so improving sleep may contribute to the calming effects of Reishi.
The calming effects of Reishi may be due in part to its ability to modulate neurotransmitters in the brain. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Reishi extract increased the levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety, in the brains of mice. (5)
In conclusion, Reishi mushroom has been shown to have calming effects and may be a useful natural remedy for those experiencing stress and anxiety. Its ability to regulate cortisol levels, improve sleep quality, and modulate neurotransmitters in the brain may contribute to its anxiolytic effects. As always, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Product Recommendation
Our recommend product that contains 700 mg of Reishi extract per serving is Centered Mind from Pure Prescriptions.
References:
Zhao, H., et al. (2012). Anxiolytic effects of ganopoly, a beta-glucan from Ganoderma lucidum, on mice. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 139(3), 710-715.
Yang, X., et al. (2014). Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) extract reduces anxiety and depression-like behavior in rats exposed to chronic stress. Journal of Medicinal Food, 17(12), 1361-1369.
Sheng, Y., et al. (2010). A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the effects of Ganoderma lucidum on stress response in healthy volunteers. Journal of Medicinal Food, 13(1), 82-87.
Gao, X., et al. (2018). Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides improve sleep quality in patients with fibromyalgia. Journal of Medicinal Food, 21(8), 757-763.
Li, E., et al. (2012). Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides antagonize the suppression on GABAergic transmission by ethanol. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 139(3), 746-751.
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