Evidence supporting the use of: Reishi
For the health condition: Lupus

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a medicinal mushroom long used in traditional Chinese medicine for its purported immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory properties. Its use to support autoimmune conditions like lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE) is based on these historical and traditional applications rather than robust scientific evidence. Some traditional texts and herbal practices suggest reishi may help "balance" immune function, which in theory could be beneficial in autoimmune diseases. However, clinical trials specifically investigating reishi's efficacy or safety in lupus patients are lacking.

Modern laboratory and animal studies have shown that compounds in reishi can affect immune cells and reduce inflammation, but these findings are not specific to lupus and have not been confirmed in large, high-quality human trials. Concerns also exist that immune-stimulating herbs like reishi could potentially worsen autoimmune diseases in certain individuals by activating the immune system. As such, its use in lupus is not strongly supported by scientific validation, and most recommendations are based on traditional use or anecdotal reports.

In summary, while reishi has a long traditional history as an immune modulator, its use for lupus is primarily justified by tradition, with minimal scientific evidence to support its efficacy or safety for this specific condition.

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Products containing Reishi

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