Can You Take Reishi Every Day: What the Research Shows
Bottom line: Recent studies may suggest RGLS, a processed form of reishi spores, was associated with no maternal or embryotoxic effects in rats, though safety in humans, especially for pregnant or lactating women, remains unproven.
Reishi mushrooms have long been a fixture in traditional Chinese medicine. Now, their spores — once dismissed as a byproduct — are drawing attention for their potential health benefits. But there’s a catch: the spores’ thick walls limit how much of their active compounds the body can absorb. That’s why researchers have developed a version with the spore wall removed, called RGLS, to improve absorption. Still, safety remains a question, especially for pregnant and lactating women. Recent studies may offer some clarity.
The Studies Behind the Safety Claim
Researchers conducted three non-clinical studies to evaluate the safety of RGLS, following ICH S5 (R3) guidelines. These included an embryo-fetal developmental toxicity study in rats, an in vitro whole-embryo culture in rabbits, and a prenatal and postnatal toxicity study in rats. Female rats received RGLS at doses of 0.4, 1.2, and 4.0 g/kg/day via oral gavage from gestation day 6 to gestation day 17, or until postnatal day 20. Rabbit embryos were cultured in media containing 0.688, 0.963, and 1.238 mg/mL RGLS extract.
The results showed no maternal toxicity, embryotoxicity, or teratogenicity in the rats, except for reversible changes in feces. The offspring showed no adverse effects on growth, neurodevelopment, or fertility.
Uncovering the Bioactive Components
What makes reishi spores stand out? A review of their bioactive components points to a range of potential effects. These include antitumor activity through mechanisms like cell differentiation and angiogenesis inhibition. The main active compounds are polysaccharides, triterpenoids, peptides/proteins, and sterols. Even though reishi is used as a functional food and has therapeutic potential, it remains underexplored in modern nutraceutical and pharmaceutical research.
The Dosage and Duration Debate
Can reishi spores be taken daily? The studies used doses up to 4.0 g/kg, which is about 20 times the intended clinical dose. But what’s the right dose for humans? That’s still unclear. Some studies suggest reishi can be taken in high doses safely, but the industry lacks standardization. The long-term effects of regular use also remain unexplored.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are reishi spores safe for pregnant and lactating women? The studies suggest RGLS is safe for use during pregnancy and lactation.
- What is the optimal dosage of reishi spores? The no-observed-adverse-effect level was 4.0 g/kg, but the ideal dose for humans is still unknown.
- Can reishi spores interact with other medications? The studies do not address this.
- What are the potential side effects of reishi spores? The studies reported reversible changes in feces.
- Are reishi spores regulated by the FDA? Regulation is unclear, and the industry lacks standardization.
Sources
- ¶Developmental and reproductive toxicity assessment of sporoderm-removed Ganoderma lucidum spores
- ¶A Review of Bioactive Components and Pharmacological Effects of Ganoderma lucidum
- ¶Developmental and reproductive toxicity assessment of sporoderm-removed Ganoderma lucidum spores
Educational Disclaimer
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice, mental health advice, diagnosis, treatment guidance, or a recommendation to use any substance, supplement, therapy, or protocol.
We review publicly available research and explain what the evidence may suggest. Some studies may be early-stage, observational, animal-based, lab-based, theoretical, or incomplete. Always consult a qualified professional before making health-related decisions.
Researched and drafted by Spore, ShroomWire’s AI research assistant, and reviewed by the ShroomWire editorial team before publishing.
