Benefits of Reishi Mushroom for Hair Growth and Hair Loss
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Time to read 9 min
Reishi mushrooms, scientifically known as Ganoderma lucidum, have gained widespread recognition for their potential health benefits–from improving sleep to balancing hormones. This brings up some interest surrounding their potential for managing one particular condition related to hormone imbalance–hair loss.
So, what are Reishi mushroom benefits for hair? When it comes to hair health, reishi mushrooms may help combat hair loss by balancing hormones and reducing inflammation. Their adaptogenic properties can support overall wellness, which indirectly benefits hair growth.
Interested in how to use reishi mushroom for hair growth and more? Read on to discover their potential advantages and usage tips.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
Reishi mushrooms are rich in antioxidants that protect hair from damage.
They may help balance hormones, promoting healthier hair growth.
Scientific research is ongoing, so consult a professional before making significant changes.
What are Reishi Mushrooms?
Ganoderma lucidum, commonly known as reishi mushrooms, is a type of fungus that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It is often referred to as the "mushroom of immortality" due to its purported health benefits.
Reishi mushrooms are distinctively shaped with a glossy exterior and a woody, bitter taste, meaning they aren’t usually used in cuisine. Instead, many people turn to mushroom tea made from dried mushrooms or reishi mushroom extract supplements to reap their health benefits.
In many cases, supplements are the best options because reishi extract contains a higher concentration of the mushroom’s bioactive components, like mushroom polysaccharides, compared to whole mushroom products.
Beneficial Compounds Found in Reishi Mushrooms
Reishi mushrooms are a rich source of bioactive compounds, including triterpenes, polysaccharides, and peptidoglycans. These compounds possess potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. Such properties could play a role in promoting overall health, which may indirectly benefit hair health.
Thanks to its impact on stress hormones, Reishi is widely considered a powerful adaptogen, or a compound that regulates the stress response.
The health benefits of adaptogens include:
- Reduce the impact of free radicals on cellular membranes
- Aid in enhancing protein synthesis
- Facilitate the repair of impaired muscle tissue
- Foster efficient post-workout recovery
- Enhance muscular endurance
- Reduce stress levels
- Enhance sleep quality
- Improve cognitive acuity throughout the day
But how do any of these benefits tie into hair health? Let’s take a look:
Reishi Mushrooms Benefits for Hair Health
Now, let's delve into how reishi mushrooms might positively affect your hair:
1. Potential Antioxidant Effects
Reishi mushrooms are abundant in antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body. Free radicals can damage hair follicles and lead to hair thinning and loss.
By consuming reishi mushrooms, you may help protect your hair from oxidative stress and maintain its health. This is also why topically applied reishi serum may be useful for improving hair health.
2. Balancing Hormones
Hormonal imbalances can contribute to hair problems such as hair loss and thinning. Reishi mushrooms may have the potential to help balance hormones, which in turn could promote healthier hair growth.
Studies have found that Reishi may be useful for lowering cortisol (stress hormone) levels. It may also help by up-regulating the immune system and supporting the liver in a way that helps to detoxify xenoestrogens, substances that mimic estrogen and can cause side effects related to excessive estrogen levels. These substances have also been linked to various hair growth disorders.
3. Boosting the Immune System
A strong immune system is essential for overall health, including hair health. Reishi mushrooms are believed to enhance immune function, potentially leading to better defense against infections or conditions that might impact your hair.
4. Blocking DHT
Inflated levels of DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is frequently linked to male pattern baldness, and DHT blockers are often prescribed to treat hale loss in men (and sometimes in women).
One study looked at the impact of the extracts of 19 different edible mushrooms and found that Reishi showed the strongest 5alpha-reductase inhibitory activity. 5alpha-reductase inhibitors block the conversion of testosterone to DHT, reducing overall DHT levels.
So, this theory suggests that Reishi may work as a powerful DHT blocker, which may help to manage certain forms of hair loss. Reishi makes the list of the best mushrooms for men thanks to this benefits.
5. Reduce Scalp Inflammation
Reishi mushrooms may offer anti-inflammatory benefits that are useful for alleviating scalp inflammation. Moreover, they actively support enhanced blood circulation, facilitating the transportation of vital oxygen and nourishing nutrients to the scalp.
This combination of lower inflammation levels and increased blood flow may help to promote hair growth while simultaneously lowering the risks of scalp afflictions like psoriasis, eczema, and dandruff.
Can You Use Reishi Mushroom for Hair Loss?
Yes, Reishi mushroom may be useful for addressing hair loss. Reishi is believed to support hair health by improving scalp circulation and reducing inflammation. These benefits may help create a more favorable environment for hair growth.
Studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that Reishi's ability to balance hormones and reduce stress—both factors linked to hair loss—could be particularly advantageous.
While more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy, incorporating Reishi mushroom supplements or topical applications into your routine may offer a natural approach to managing hair loss and supporting overall hair health.
How to Use Reishi Mushroom for Hair Growth
Reishi mushrooms, or Ganoderma lucidum, are renowned for their adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. They are increasingly being explored for their potential to support hair growth and manage hair loss.
Here’s how to effectively use this mushroom for hair care:
1. Choosing the Right Form of Reishi Mushroom
For addressing hair loss and promoting growth, Reishi can be used in several forms:
- Capsules/Tablets: Convenient for daily use, providing a standardized dose of mushroom supplements for hair growth.
- Powder: Versatile for mixing into drinks or creating homemade hair masks.
- Extracts/Tinctures: Highly concentrated and can be added to beverages or applied topically for targeted benefits.
2. Dosage Recommendations
The recommended dosage for optimal Reishi mushroom hair loss support varies:
- Capsules/Tablets: Generally, 500-1500 mg per day is effective.
- Powder: 1-2 teaspoons mixed into smoothies or teas.
- Extracts/Tinctures: Follow the dosage instructions on the product, usually 1-2 droppers full daily.
3. Incorporating Reishi into Your Routine
- Internal Use: Taking Reishi supplements regularly can help support overall health, contributing to better hair growth.
- Topical Application: Apply Reishi powder mixed with carrier oils or hair masks directly to the scalp. This can leverage Ganoderma benefits for hair by soothing inflammation and creating a healthier scalp environment.
- Consider Timing: For most people, the best time to take Reishi is at night, but it may vary based on your needs.
4. Combining Reishi with Other Hair Care Ingredients
To enhance the effects of Reishi for hair growth:
- Essential Oils: Blend with oils like rosemary or peppermint to boost scalp stimulation.
- Natural Oils: Combine with coconut or jojoba oil for a nourishing scalp treatment.
Who Should Avoid Reishi?
While reishi mushrooms are generally safe for most people, certain groups should exercise caution:
- Reishi While Pregnant: There’s limited research on reishi’s safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It’s best to avoid reishi mushroom supplements in these cases unless advised by a healthcare provider.
- Mushroom Supplement Side Effects: Some individuals may experience mushroom supplement side effects like upset stomach, dry mouth, or allergic reactions. If you’re new to reishi, start with a small dose to gauge your tolerance.
- Medical Conditions or Medications: Reishi may interact with blood thinners, immunosuppressants, or other medications. Consult your doctor if you have chronic health conditions or take prescription drugs.
Always consult a healthcare professional before adding reishi or any mushroom supplement to your routine, especially if you fall into these categories.
Conclusion: How Does Reishi Benefit Hair Health?
Incorporating reishi mushrooms into your diet or hair care routine may offer potential benefits, but remember that scientific research on this topic is ongoing. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
To recap, reishi mushrooms hold exciting promise in addressing various hair issues, including male pattern hair loss, alopecia areata, and premature graying. Packed with potent antioxidants, they serve as a protective shield for the scalp and hair against environmental toxins and free radicals. This protection can potentially stimulate healthy hair growth.
Furthermore, their anti-inflammatory properties may mitigate the inflammation that weakens hair follicles and hampers blood flow to the scalp. Notably, reishi mushrooms could also contribute to combating autoimmune issues like alopecia areata, a condition where the body's attack on hair follicles leads to thinning hair and patchy bald spots.
However, for a comprehensive understanding and validation of these benefits, further extensive research is needed. Always seek professional guidance before integrating reishi mushrooms into your hair care routine.
How to Choose a High-Quality Mushroom Supplement
When choosing a mushroom supplement for pain relief, ensure it's from a reputable source. Look for supplements that have undergone rigorous testing for purity, potency, and quality. Check for certifications, and consult with healthcare professionals to determine the best supplement and dosage for your needs.
Here are key factors to weigh:
Whole Mushroom Powder vs. Mushroom Extract
- Whole Mushroom Powder: This form includes the entire mushroom, retaining all its natural nutrients and compounds. While akin to consuming a whole fruit, whole mushroom powder may lack the necessary beta glucans that provide therapeutic benefits.
- Mushroom Extract: Extracts are concentrated and contain specific anxiety-alleviating compounds. The extraction process enhances bioavailability, ensuring consistent and potent results. However, extracts often omit the fiber and other nutritional components found in whole mushroom products.
Fruiting Body Supplements vs. Mycelium Supplements
- Fruiting Body Supplements: Derived from the mature part of the mushroom, fruiting body supplements are richer in the sought-after therapeutic compounds, making them ideal for addressing health concerns.
- Mycelium Supplements: Mycelium, the mushroom's root system, may not offer the same anxiety-relief benefits as fruiting body supplements. Some companies use mycelium to reduce costs, but this may compromise the therapeutic potential.
Labeling and Transparency
When choosing a mushroom supplement for anxiety, prioritize transparency and thorough product information:
- Look for supplements from reputable manufacturers that provide clear details about sourcing, extraction methods, and quality control practices.
- Ensure the label specifies the mushroom species used, whether it's whole mushroom powder or an extract, and the source (fruiting body or mycelium).
- Aim for a beta glucan content of around 20% or more for effective anxiety support.
- Verify third-party testing for purity and potency.
Opting for products with transparent labeling empowers you to make an informed decision and trust the quality of your chosen mushroom supplement.
If you want to take full advantage of the "functional" side of functional mushrooms, consider a mushroom super-blend like our Lucid Coffee, Chai, or Matcha powders. It takes full advantage of the benefits of these superfood mushrooms by pairing Cordyceps, Maitake, Tremella, and Lion's Mane, plus powerful nootropics, like BCAA's, L-Theanine, Alpha-GPC, and more.
FAQ - Ganoderma Benefits for Hair
Does Reishi mushroom help with hair growth?
Reishi mushroom may support overall health and well-being, which can indirectly benefit hair growth by improving circulation and reducing stress. However, there is limited direct evidence to suggest it significantly enhances hair growth.
What are the disadvantages of Reishi mushroom?
The disadvantages of Reishi mushroom may include potential side effects such as digestive discomfort, dry mouth, and dizziness. It may also interact with blood-thinning medications, so it’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you have any health concerns or are taking other medications.
Is it OK to take Reishi every day?
For most people, it is generally safe to take Reishi every day, as long as it is within the recommended dosage. Daily use may help maintain its potential benefits, but it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and to ensure it fits well with your individual health needs.
Should I take Reishi at night or day?
Reishi can be taken either at night or during the day, depending on your personal preference and how your body responds. Some people find it relaxing and prefer taking it at night, while others take it during the day for its potential immune-supporting benefits.
What does Reishi do to the body?
Reishi mushroom supports the body in several ways, including boosting immune function, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation. It is also studied for its potential to improve sleep quality and support cardiovascular health.
Resources
- “Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92757/
- “Hepatoprotective effects of aqueous extract from Lingzhi or Reishi medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (higher basidiomycetes) on α-amanitin-induced liver injury in mice” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23796220/
- “Risks and benefits related to alimentary exposure to xenoestrogens” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6104637/
- “Estrogen Leads to Reversible Hair Cycle Retardation through Inducing Premature Catagen and Maintaining Telogen”https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3390338/
- “Immune Modulation From Five Major Mushrooms: Application to Integrative Oncology” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4684115/
- “Anti-androgenic activities of Ganoderma lucidum” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029938/
Kat Austin
Kat is a Senior Writer at Lucid with over a decade of experience crafting engaging health and lifestyle content. When she's not sharing health hacks, you can find her foraging nearby her own backyard or backpacking somewhere bobcats roam.
