Evidence supporting the use of: Reishi mushroom
For the health condition: Anxiety Disorders

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Synopsis

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

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is considered an adaptogen—a substance believed to help the body resist stress and promote overall well-being. Historically, reishi has been used to "calm the spirit" and improve sleep, which in traditional contexts is linked to reducing anxiety and restlessness. However, direct traditional use for clinical anxiety disorders as defined by modern medicine is not clearly documented, but the general calming and stress-reducing properties are widely referenced in classical texts.

Scientific research on reishi’s effects specifically on anxiety disorders in humans is quite limited. Some preclinical studies (in animals) suggest that certain compounds in reishi, such as triterpenes and polysaccharides, may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, possibly through modulation of neurotransmitter systems and reduction of inflammation. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and most available human studies focus on general well-being or quality of life in cancer patients rather than specific anxiety outcomes.

In summary, while reishi mushroom is traditionally used for its calming and stress-relieving properties, there is only weak scientific evidence directly supporting its use for anxiety disorders. More high-quality clinical research is needed to substantiate its efficacy and safety for this specific indication.

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