Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) has been studied in relation to fatty liver disease, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), with some preclinical evidence suggesting potential benefits. Animal studies and in vitro experiments indicate that Reishi extracts may exert hepatoprotective effects, possibly through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering mechanisms. For example, a 2016 study published in Phytotherapy Research demonstrated that polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum improved liver enzyme levels, reduced hepatic fat accumulation, and modulated lipid metabolism in mice fed a high-fat diet. Other studies highlight Reishi’s ability to decrease oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines, both of which are implicated in the progression of fatty liver disease.

However, human evidence is extremely limited. There are currently no large-scale randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of Reishi for fatty liver disease in humans. Most available data are from animal models or cell culture studies, and while results are promising, they cannot be directly extrapolated to clinical practice. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence supporting Reishi’s use for fatty liver disease, robust clinical validation is lacking. Reishi should not be considered a proven treatment for fatty liver disease, and its use should be approached cautiously until more human research is available.