Synopsis

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

Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) has been investigated for its potential effects on components of Metabolic Syndrome, which includes obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. While reishi has a long history of traditional use in East Asian medicine for general vitality, its specific use for Metabolic Syndrome is primarily supported by more recent scientific studies rather than tradition. Preclinical studies (in vitro and animal models) suggest that reishi extracts may have hypoglycemic, antihypertensive, and lipid-lowering effects, likely mediated by its polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and antioxidant compounds. Some small human trials have shown improvements in fasting glucose and cholesterol parameters, but results are inconsistent, and the studies often suffer from small sample sizes and methodological limitations.

A 2016 systematic review (link) concluded there is insufficient high-quality clinical evidence to recommend reishi for diabetes or metabolic syndrome, noting that most positive findings come from animal studies. Safety profiles are generally good, but larger, well-controlled human trials are needed to confirm efficacy. Overall, reishi’s use to support Metabolic Syndrome is backed by early-stage scientific data, but clinical evidence remains weak, justifying a moderate-low evidence score.

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