Evidence supporting the use of: Reishi mushroom
For the health condition: Glands (swollen lymph)

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Synopsis

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

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where it is prized as a tonic for overall health and longevity. In TCM, reishi is often used to "strengthen the body's Qi" and support the immune system, which is sometimes interpreted as helping with swollen glands or lymph nodes, especially in the context of infections or immune imbalances. However, there is little direct traditional documentation of reishi being used solely for swollen lymph nodes; rather, its use is more general—for immune modulation and support during illness, which may include conditions that cause lymph node swelling. Scientifically, reishi contains polysaccharides and triterpenes that have demonstrated immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory and animal studies. However, high-quality clinical trials specifically evaluating reishi’s effects on swollen lymph nodes in humans are lacking. Thus, while traditional herbalists may recommend reishi to support the immune system in cases where lymph nodes are swollen, current evidence is indirect and does not specifically validate its efficacy for this purpose. More robust clinical research would be required to justify its use as a primary treatment for swollen lymph nodes.

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