Evidence supporting the use of: Reishi mushroom
For the body system: Adrenal Cortex

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a tonic for overall health, longevity, and stress resilience. In TCM, reishi is considered an "adaptogen"—a substance believed to help the body cope with stress, although the concept of adaptogens is not recognized in conventional Western medicine. Traditionally, reishi is thought to support the adrenal cortex by helping the body adapt to stress and maintain homeostasis, but these claims are based on centuries of empirical use rather than robust clinical evidence.

Scientific studies have investigated reishi's effects on immune modulation, inflammation, and some markers of fatigue and stress in animal models and small human trials. However, direct evidence supporting its specific action on the adrenal cortex in humans is lacking. Some preclinical studies suggest potential for reducing stress-induced physiological changes, but these do not directly measure adrenal hormone output or function. Therefore, while reishi’s use for "adrenal support" is widespread in herbal and integrative medicine circles, this is justified primarily by tradition and not by direct scientific validation.

In summary, the use of reishi mushroom for adrenal cortex support is rooted in traditional practices and adaptogenic frameworks, with limited scientific evidence for this specific application.

More about reishi mushroom
More about Adrenal Cortex