Reishi Mushroom
Benefits of Reishi Mushroom
- Antioxidant activity
- Form: Extract
- Food source: Mushroom
What is Reishi Mushroom?
Reishi mushroom, also known as 'Ganoderma lucidum', belongs to the fungus kingdom and is native to China. It is a large, dark mushroom that can grow up to 20cm (8 inches) in diameter, with a woody texture and a glossy red-brown appearance. It typically grows on decaying hardwood trees in the temperate forests of Asia, America and Europe.
Reishi has been used traditionally for over 2000 years. It contains a host of biologically active compounds, including polysaccharides, alkaloids, triterpenoids, sterols, ergosterols and proteins, among many others.
What does the research say about Reishi Mushroom?
Reishi polysaccharides have antioxidant activity, and animal research has looked at them in relation to oxidative stress and the liver. Studies have also looked at the polysaccharides' effects on blood glucose and on the immune system. Beta-glucans, one type of polysaccharide, are of particular interest to researchers for the many ways they interact with the innate immune system.
Reishi's triterpenoids have been studied for how they act on certain cell-signalling pathways. Researchers have also looked at triterpenoids in relation to blood pressure, cholesterol markers and histamine activity.
Why it's in Protein & Creatine Superblend
AMPK and mTOR signalling in muscle: Reishi contains polysaccharides that activate AMPKα, the body’s cellular energy sensor. When AMPKα is activated, it triggers changes (including phosphorylation of TSC2 and raptor) that reduce the activity of mTORC1 and mTORC2 — two pathways involved in muscle breakdown and energy use. Reishi also has effects on another key pathway known as IGF-1R → PI3K → Akt, which plays a role in muscle growth. By influencing this pathway and lowering levels of a protein called Rheb, Reishi further helps suppress excessive mTOR activity. This dual action supports the preservation of lean muscle mass, especially under stress or in chronic conditions.1
Why it's in Men's ProMulti
Reishi Mushrooms have immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties. The active compounds in Reishi, including triterpenoids and polysaccharides, have been shown to enhance immune function by increasing the activity of white blood cells and promoting the production of antibodies. Reishi also supports cardiovascular health by improving blood circulation and reducing blood pressure.2
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is 'The Energy Vitamin' and is essential for the production of red blood cells, fuelling our energy and helping maintain a healthy heart.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is vital for our immune health, wound healing and for the health of our skin through its central role in collagen production and supporting blood vessels feeding our skin.
Vitamin D3
Our plant-based Vitamin D3 is sourced from green algae that provides more effective D3, making it better for you and our planet.
Folate
Folate is required in the synthesis of DNA and the replication of new cells. It is needed in during pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects in the foetus.
Selenium
Selenium is an important mineral for the immune system. It also helps maintain healthy hair and nails and is necessary for the use of Iodine in thyroid hormone function.
Spirulina
Spirulina is absolutely packed with nutrients, including proteins, B Vitamins, Copper, Iron and Magnesium, all of which play their own important role in the body.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is vital for our immune system, fighting off infections and in the production of white blood cells. It is also essential for healthy skin, vision and eye health.
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3 supports our brain function by helping transport messages through it, and in breaking down the foods we eat into energy which it supplies to the brain.
