As the saying goes, "The elderly struggle to get through the winter."

 

This is not just a piece of advice based on experience, but has practical evidence to back it up. A study in China shows that the mortality rate from cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in winter is 41% higher than in summer, with the majority of those affected being individuals aged 55 and above^[1].

The pressure on blood vessels in winter is greater than at any other time! When temperatures drop suddenly, blood vessels constrict, slowing blood circulation. Combined with a high-calorie winter diet, the risk of cardiovascular diseases greatly increases, especially atherosclerosis, which is the most common and severe condition.

 

This is when we need a "guardian for the heart" to safeguard our health. Winter is the time to consume it regularly, providing an extra layer of "protection" for our blood vessels!

 

Reishi Extract: The "Vessel Cleaner" Steps In

 

The ancient text Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing recorded that Reishi "treats chest congestion, benefits the heart qi, and supplements the center," referring to its ability to enter the heart meridians and promote the circulation of qi and blood.

 

However, today, it is more efficient and convenient to consume Reishi extract directly rather than eating the whole mushroom to protect blood vessels.

 

Reishi extract is the essence derived from the fruiting body (the Reishi mushroom itself), containing active ingredients such as polysaccharides, triterpenoids, sterols, amino acids, and proteins.

 

The two most studied components today are "triterpenoids" and "polysaccharides." Research findings on their cardiovascular protective effects are particularly promising.

 

Studies confirm that Reishi triterpenoids can improve atherosclerotic lesions and regulate cholesterol metabolism in the body^[2]; Reishi polysaccharides can reduce blood lipids, prevent and treat diabetic complications, and lower blood pressure^[3].

 

It can be said that Reishi extract has a wide range of benefits for blood vessels, and the earlier you start to consume it, the sooner you will benefit!

 

Long-term Consumption of Reishi Extract: A Basket of Benefits!

 

Regular consumption of Reishi or its extract will bring many surprising benefits, such as:

 

1. Lower Blood Pressure
On one hand, Reishi polysaccharides protect the endothelial cells of blood vessel walls, allowing blood vessels to relax when needed. On the other hand, Reishi triterpenoids inhibit the activity of "angiotensin-converting enzyme" (ACE), which is secreted by the kidneys and causes blood vessels to constrict, thus raising blood pressure. Reishi can regulate this enzyme’s activity.

 

2. Lower Blood Lipids
Reishi can regulate blood lipids. Reishi triterpenoids adjust the liver's production of cholesterol and triglycerides, while polysaccharides reduce intestinal absorption, offering a dual mechanism to control blood lipids.

 

3. Reduced Blood Clots
Reishi polysaccharides protect the endothelial cells of blood vessels through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, preventing atherosclerosis. Reishi adenosine and triterpenoids can inhibit thrombus formation, reducing the risk of vascular blockage.

 

4. Lower Blood Sugar
Studies show that Reishi extract effectively alleviates conditions caused by diabetes, such as weight loss, elevated blood sugar, high blood lipids, and increased kidney indices, while also protecting pancreatic beta cells and mitigating the deterioration of diabetes^[3].

 

5. Protecting the Heart Muscle
Both Reishi extracts containing polysaccharides and triterpenoids, as well as Ganoderic acid (the main component of triterpenoids), effectively prevent myocardial cell necrosis caused by "β-adrenergic agonists," helping to protect the heart muscle and maintain heart function.

— Excerpted from Healing with Ganoderma by Wu Tingyao, pp. 119-122.

 

How to Consume Reishi Extract?Versatile and Easy Ways to Enjoy Its Health Benefits.

 

How can you enjoy the health benefits of Reishi extract? It’s quite simple!

 

You can choose GanoHerb Ganoderma Lucidum Spore and Extract Capsules or powder. This product contains Reishi extract with 2.5g of total triterpenoids and 8g of polysaccharides per 100g, ensuring a high concentration of active ingredients. Take it daily for efficient absorption of Reishi’s essence!

 

The image shows GanoHerb Ganoderma Lucidum Spore and Extract Capsules.

 

Another option is to add Reishi extract to your tea or use it as an ingredient in soups and stews. Winter meals can be healthier and more diverse with Reishi added.

 

Let Reishi be a part of your winter health routine, and you’ll experience a transformation in health, both inside and out!

 

References:

 

[1] Wilkinson, P., Pattenden, S., Armstrong, B., Fletcher, A., Kovats, R. S., Mangtani, P., & McMichael, A. J. (2004). Vulnerability to winter mortality in elderly people in Britain: population-based study. Bmj, 329(7467), 647.

 

[2] Cao, X. (2020). Study on the Extraction Process of Ganoderma Spore Total Triterpenoid Acid and Its Effects and Mechanisms in Atherosclerosis. Xihua University.

 

[3] Xie, Y., et al. (2006). Preventive Effects of Ganoderma Polysaccharides on Hyperlipidemia in Experimental Rats. Food Research and Development, Nutrition and Health, 27(6).

 

[4] Bach EE, et al. Hypoglicemic and Hypolipedimic Effects of Ganoderma lucidum in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats.Medicines (Basel). 2018 Jul 28;5(3). pii: E78.