How Reishi mushroom helps with hypertension: scientific facts and health benefits

2 January 2025

Reishi – A Natural Remedy for Hypertension

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is one of the most well-known medicinal mushrooms in the world. In China, it has long been called the "mushroom of immortality", while in Japan it is known as Mannentake, which translates to "mushroom of ten thousand years." Other common names include Lingzhi, varnished conk, and Ganoderma.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a global health issue and a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, strokes, kidney damage, and cerebral vascular disorders. According to WHO, approximately 1.28 billion adults worldwide suffer from hypertension, with only half of them receiving adequate treatment. Chronically high blood pressure is also associated with sleep disturbances, depression, and cognitive decline. While pharmaceutical treatments are effective, they often come with side effects such as dizziness, nasal congestion, coughing, and nausea. Therefore, the search for natural, safe, and effective therapeutic solutions remains crucial.

In this context, the Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) stands out as a natural remedy with a long history of use in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. Modern research confirms that Reishi possesses a wide range of medicinal properties, including the ability to lower blood pressure.

Reishi is a mushroom with a unique composition containing over 400 biologically active compounds, including polysaccharides (such as beta-D-glucans, heteropolysaccharides, and glycoproteins), triterpenes, germanium, saturated and unsaturated amino acids, sterols, lipids, antioxidants, vitamins B1, B2, B6, iron, calcium, and zinc.

Learn more about the benefits of polysaccharides in mushrooms: Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Benefits and Uses

Key Components:

Polysaccharides: Reduce inflammation and improve vascular elasticity.
Triterpenes: Can block the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is responsible for raising blood pressure.
Antioxidants: Protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Microelements: Iron, calcium, zinc, and B-group vitamins strengthen overall immunity and support cardiovascular health.

A recent study conducted by the Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences confirmed the effectiveness of Reishi in combating hypertension. The results were published in the journal Phytomedicine in 2018.

The study utilized a water extract of Reishi, administered daily for seven weeks to rats with high blood pressure, while Losartan, an AT1 angiotensin II receptor antagonist, was used as a positive therapeutic control.

Results demonstrated:

Systolic pressure decreased by 17%, and diastolic pressure by 13%, compared to the control group.
Blood flow velocity in the carotid arteries increased by 33%.
The lumen of carotid arteries expanded by 66%.
Levels of excitatory neurotransmitters (glutamate and glutamine) rose by 38%, indicating improved cerebral blood flow and neuronal function.
Brain energy metabolism improved by 12%, reflecting enhanced neuronal activity.

Read also: Lion's mane mushroom in the fight against cardiovascular disease and cholesterol

Another study conducted in Japan (Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, 1988) examined the effects of Reishi powder on blood pressure and plasma lipid levels. Rats with spontaneous hypertension, a model mimicking human hypertension, were divided into two groups. For four weeks, one group received a standard diet, while the other was given a diet supplemented with Reishi powder.

Findings revealed:

Systolic pressure decreased by 10%.
Total plasma cholesterol dropped by 20%.
Liver cholesterol levels fell by 15%.
Plasma triglycerides decreased by 11%.
Reduced cholesterol deposition in vascular tissues, lowering the risk of atherosclerosis.

Thus, studies confirm that Reishi not only lowers blood pressure but also enhances brain metabolism, potentially preventing cognitive impairments. Additionally, Reishi accelerates cholesterol metabolism and reduces its synthesis, stabilizing lipid levels in the blood and decreasing the risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation.

Also, take a look at: Impact of Cordyceps militaris on Immunity

Regular consumption of Reishi helps maintain normal blood pressure, improves cerebral circulation, and strengthens overall health. This is not only an effective treatment but also an excellent tool for preventing chronic diseases.

This information is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

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