Reishi mushroom, scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum, has emerged as an viable option in the study of epilepsy and other serious neurological disorders. With many people suffering daily from seizures and other neurological conditions from migraine to tremors, alternative, natural options are consistently sought out by patients and individuals in this bracket.
This ancient mushroom, often referred to as the Mushroom of Immortality, has recently moved from traditional Eastern medicine to modern-day research labs, where its potential impact on neurological health is being tried and tested with a positive outlook on its future use.
In this article we will look further into the potential of Reishi mushroom, examining its roots in medicinal history, right up to its recent promotion as a food supplement. In particular we will check out the available research and any anecdotal evidence which favours the connection between Reishi epilepsy. Let’s get into it.
EPILEPSY CHALLENGES & OTHER NEUROLOGICAL ISSUES
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition and is characterized by repeated, unprovoked seizures. Not only is the person physically affected by epilepsy but they also experience social issues and psychological discomfort due to the severity and sometimes randomness of the seizures.
Like many other health conditions western medicine has developed a range of prescription-based medications to alleviate and help prevent such seizures but for many these don’t have the desired effect.
For some the medications come with unwanted side effects and for others they don’t have a positive effect at all. Others would prefer to not take prescription medications in general so that leaves many searching for a natural, holistic alternative. This is where nootropic mushrooms among other plant species come along.
Nootropics are known to enhance cognition. They can be natural, like nootropic mushrooms and coffee or synthetic, often found in medications. Reishi is a natural form of nootropic and there is a reason it has been used in Asia since ancient times!
THE NOOTROPIC REISHI MUSHROOM
Reishi mushroom has been a staple in Asian medicine for thousands of years and is seeing a well-deserved resurgence today. Renowned for its potential life-extending properties, Reishi has been linked with improved health, sleep, stress relief and more.
It is its complex composition of bioactive compounds that makes it a subject of interest in treating neurological health conditions specifically. As nootropic mushrooms help the function and health of the brain, this mushroom in particular can have a calming effect on the brain and in turn the body.
One Dr. Mush Me customer who uses Reishi Liquid Extract Drops for migraine relief has this to say about the supplement benefits:
“For 15 years I’ve experienced regular, debilitating migraine. Medication did not work and some made me feel awful so I stopped. While I use hemp as the main form of treatment, reishi recently came up in my news feed and I wanted to give it a go. The change was instant. The migraine slowed and eventually stopped completely with a large reduction in the pain. I now use it alongside hemp oil both as a preventative and on the spot treatment.”
FROM THE HISTORY BOOKS
From ancient Chinese emperors to modern-day lovers of all things natural, Reishi mushroom has been used throughout history along with other mushrooms like cordyceps and chaga. The health benefits can be many and such facts were not unknown to ancient cultures in Asia where Reishi was commonly used to alleviate headaches among other things.
Ayurvedic medicine makes use of nootropic mushrooms too. In 2024, its potential neuroprotective properties now have the attention of science as more studies on this mushroom come to light regarding its role in neurological health.
REISHI MUSHROOM AS A SUPPLEMENT
With an increasing demand for natural health products, Reishi mushroom supplements have become widely accessible. But, like with all supplements, they are not all created in the same way.
For example, we at Dr. Mush Me use Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction technology, the best form of extraction in modern day, to ensure a potent and pure product.
This technology cleanly extracts the beneficial compounds from the fruiting body of the mushroom, believed to be the most beneficial part of the plant. In the process, ultrasonic waves are used to ensure no damage is done to those beneficial compounds. In other words, you get the full benefits of the mushroom and not just some.
REISHI & EPILEPSY: THE CONNECTION
Epilepsy treatment often involves managing seizures and preventing possible neurological damage. Here’s how it can work:
PROTECTIVE
Reishi mushroom contains various compounds, including triterpenoids and polysaccharides, which have shown potential in protecting neurological health. Its neuroprotective effects might be beneficial in managing epilepsy and reducing the frequency or severity of seizures.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY EFFECTS
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are contributing factors in many neurological disorders, including epilepsy. Reishi’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions might help alleviate these issues, providing a protective effect on brain health.
MODULATION
Research into Reishi’s impact on the central nervous system suggests it may have a modulating effect on neuronal functions. This could prove beneficial in stabilizing the electrical activity of the brain, which is crucial in epilepsy management.
BEYOND EPILEPSY: REISHI’S FULL NEUROLOGICAL IMPACT
Reishi’s influence appears to go far beyond epilepsy, potentially offering benefits for many other neurological conditions. This we saw above from one of our customers who uses Reishi Drops to help with migraine relief.
Its ability to balance the immune system and proven neuroprotective properties make it a front runnr for further research in brain-related diseases and cognitive conditions. More research is needed but the future looks good!
FROM MUSHROOM TO BOTTLE
The process of transforming Reishi into a consumable supplement is delicate and important. Brands like us at Dr. Mush Me use the highest form of extraction technology (Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction) to create a liquid formula that maintains all the beneficial compounds of Reishi in one bottle.
Using a liquid extract to supplement your diet is convenient and ensures your supplement is a potent form of the mushroom it came from.
THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALITY & TRANSPARENCY
When considering Reishi supplements, quality should not be overlooked. A safe and experienced brand that focuses on extracting from the fruiting body with advanced extraction methods can guarantee a supplement with maximum effects.
Look for proof of laboratory testing from brands always if they are not already available on their website.
THE FUTURE OF REISHI IN NEUROLOGICAL RESEARCH
As research into Reishi’s effects on neurological health progresses, its role in managing conditions like epilepsy could become more defined. This natural remedy holds promise for those seeking alternative or complementary treatments.
Integrating Reishi into a holistic health regimen, especially for those dealing with epilepsy and neurological disorders, could offer an additional layer of support alongside traditional treatments.
A NATURAL NEUROLOGICAL OPTION
In conclusion, the Reishi mushroom presents itself as a fascinating natural remedy with potential neurological benefits.
While more research is needed to fully understand its impact on epilepsy and other neurological disorders, Reishi’s historical significance and current scientific findings make it a noteworthy option for those exploring natural health solutions.
REFERENCES
- “Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) for cancer treatment,” Wachtel-Galor, S., Yuen, J., Buswell, J.A., et al. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2006.
- “Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulating Properties of Fungal Metabolites,” Rios, J.L. Mediators of Inflammation, 2005.
- “Antioxidant properties of several specialty mushrooms,” Cör, D., et al. Food Chemistry, 2018.
- “Ganoderma lucidum: a potent pharmacological macrofungus,” Sanodiya, B.S., et al. Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, 2009.
- “Ganoderma lucidum – A promising herb for chronic diseases or a random myth?” Batra, P., Sharma, A.K., Khajuria, R. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 2018.
- “Traditional uses and medicinal potential of Cordyceps sinensis of Sikkim,” Devkota, S. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 2011.