Synopsis

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

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, often regarded as a “tonic” to boost overall health and immunity. It is traditionally believed to strengthen the body’s resistance to infections, including the common cold. This historical use is rooted in the mushroom’s reputation for enhancing “Qi” (vital energy) and supporting the lungs and immune defenses, which are seen as critical in preventing illness.

Modern scientific studies on reishi’s effects on cold prevention are limited. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that compounds in reishi—such as polysaccharides and triterpenes—can modulate immune function, potentially increasing the activity of immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells. However, clinical evidence in humans specifically for cold prevention is lacking or of low quality. There are few well-designed randomized controlled trials directly evaluating reishi’s effectiveness in preventing the common cold. Most available evidence is indirect, focusing on general immune parameters rather than actual infection rates.

In summary, while reishi mushroom is traditionally used for boosting immunity and preventing colds, scientific validation is currently insufficient. The evidence base is mainly historical, with limited supportive mechanistic data but a lack of robust clinical trials confirming effectiveness for cold prevention.

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