Evidence supporting the use of: Reishi mushroom
For the health condition: Lungs (fluid in)

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Synopsis

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

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum), known as "Lingzhi" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has a long history of use for supporting respiratory health, including conditions involving the lungs. In TCM, reishi is considered to "tonify Lung Qi," reduce phlegm, and calm wheezing. Specifically, reishi has been used traditionally to address symptoms of chronic cough, asthma, and “fluid retention” in the lungs, which may correspond to modern concepts such as pulmonary edema or chronic bronchitis. The mushroom is said to “transform phlegm” and relieve cough by promoting better lung function and modulating immune responses.

However, while reishi is highly valued in traditional systems for such uses, there is limited modern scientific evidence directly supporting its effectiveness for treating "fluid in the lungs" (pulmonary edema). Most contemporary research focuses on its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which may theoretically benefit respiratory conditions. Some animal studies suggest reishi extracts can reduce allergic inflammation and improve airway function, but robust human data for lung fluid specifically are lacking. Thus, reishi’s use for this indication is primarily justified by traditional usage rather than scientific validation.

In summary, reishi mushroom’s application for “fluid in the lungs” is rooted in traditional medical systems, with a historical track record but only modest scientific support for related respiratory benefits. The evidence rating reflects strong traditional use but a shortage of direct modern clinical studies for this specific condition.

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