Reishi mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, is a type of edible fungus that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It is known for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent studies have also suggested that reishi mushroom may have liver-protective properties. In this article, we will explore some of the scientific studies that have investigated the liver health benefits of reishi mushroom.

Protects the liver against damage

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2017 investigated the protective effects of reishi mushroom against liver damage in mice. The researchers induced liver damage in the mice using a chemical agent and then treated them with reishi mushroom extract. The results showed that the reishi mushroom extract significantly reduced liver damage and improved liver function by increasing antioxidant activity and reducing inflammation in the liver.

Improves liver function

Another study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2019 investigated the effects of reishi mushroom on liver function in patients with chronic hepatitis B. The patients were divided into two groups, with one group receiving reishi mushroom extract and the other receiving a placebo. The results showed that the group receiving reishi mushroom extract had significant improvements in liver function, as indicated by liver enzyme levels in the blood.

Reduces liver fat accumulation

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common liver disease that is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver. A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods in 2015 investigated the effects of reishi mushroom on NAFLD in mice. The researchers induced NAFLD in the mice by feeding them a high-fat diet and then treated them with reishi mushroom extract. The results showed that the reishi mushroom extract significantly reduced liver fat accumulation by regulating lipid metabolism in the liver.

Inhibits liver cancer growth

Liver cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and is often associated with poor prognosis. A study published in the International Journal of Oncology in 2018 investigated the effects of reishi mushroom extract on liver cancer cells in vitro. The results showed that the reishi mushroom extract inhibited the growth of liver cancer cells by inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) and suppressing cell proliferation.

Reishi mushroom is a type of edible fungus that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. Recent studies have suggested that it may have liver-protective properties, including protecting the liver against damage, improving liver function, reducing liver fat accumulation, and inhibiting liver cancer growth. While more research is needed to fully understand the liver health benefits of reishi mushroom, these studies suggest that it may be a promising natural remedy for liver-related conditions.