Ganoderma coffee, which contains Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum), has possible health benefits, including improving insulin resistance in people with diabetes and relieving symptoms of urinary tract infections. G. lucidum is the scientific name for a medicinal mushroom, or fungus, commonly used in traditional Asian medicine. For this reason, you may also hear Ganoderma coffee referred to as mushroom coffee.
G. lucidum, also called reishi or lingzhi, has bioactive components, such as triterpenoids (plant chemicals), polysaccharides (long chains of sugar molecules), lipids (fats), and proteins. These components are likely responsible for how this plant might work.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. When choosing a supplement, look for third-party tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
Uses of Ganoderma lucidum
Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Like many natural medications, people may use G. lucidum for various reasons, such as lowering cholesterol levels. While G. lucidum doesn’t seem to be able to help with this, there are a few studies evaluating G. lucidum for other potential uses.
Diabetes
Insulin resistance means your body isn’t responding to insulin, a naturally occurring hormone. This means that your muscles and fat aren’t effectively taking up sugar from your diet to use and store as energy. So, lowering this resistance typically means improving your body’s response to insulin.
In a small clinical trial, study participants taking 1.44 grams (g) of G. lucidum daily might have lower insulin resistance when compared to a placebo (a substance with no medication).
While the small study suggested this potential benefit, a systematic review doesn’t support G. lucidum’s use in people with type 2 diabetes. This is because G. lucidum doesn’t seem to address the heart-related risk factors typically linked with type 2 diabetes. Examples of heart-related risk factors may include high blood pressure, glucose (sugar) levels, and cholesterol.
Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) may include the following:
- Dribbling problems after urination (peeing)
- Frequent need to urinate (pee)
- Partly full bladder sensation after urination
- Nighttime need to urinate
- Straining to urinate
- Urgent need to urinate
- Weak urine stream
LUTS may happen in people assigned male or female at birth. LUTS may also be common with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is an enlarged prostate condition that affects many older people assigned male at birth.
And according to a couple of small clinical trials, results suggest that G. lucidum might provide some LUTS relief in people assigned male at birth. But these small studies were from 2008. For these reasons, more recent research with larger, well-designed studies is still necessary.
Cancer
Based on a systematic review, G. lucidum shouldn’t be used as a first-choice option to treat cancer. But it might be added to your usual cancer treatment.
It may improve tumor response to usual cancer treatment as an add-on medication. G. lucidum may support your immune system (the body’s defense system). But side effects are possible. What’s more, it’s unclear if G. lucidum will help you will live longer.
For these reasons, discussing your matter with your healthcare provider about your preferences is essential. They will also help you weigh the benefits and risks of G. lucidum as an add-on medication to usual treatment.
High-quality studies focusing on long-term survival are still needed to better evaluate G. lucidum's effects and safety in people with cancer.
Supplement Facts
- Active ingredients(s): Triterpenoids (plant chemicals), polysaccharides (long chains of sugar molecules), lipids (fats), and proteins
- Alternative name(s): Ganoderma lucidum, G. lucidum, Ganoderma, Reishi, Lingzhi, Hongo Resishi, Ling Chih, Ling Zhi, Red Reishi, Reishi Antler Mushroom, Reishi Rouge, Rei-Shi, Champignon Reishi, Champignons Reishi, Basidiomycetes Mushroom, Champignon Basidiomycete, Champignon d’Immortalite, Mannentake, Mushroom, Mushroom of Immortality, Mushroom of Spiritual Potency, Spirit Plant
- Legal status: Legal in most states (United States)
- Suggested dose: May vary based on the dosage form and medical condition
- Safety considerations: Generally well-tolerated. Limited information on G. lucidum during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Not for children. It may interact with some prescription medications.
What Are the Side Effects of Ganoderma lucidum?
Like many medications and natural products, side effects are possible with G. lucidum.
Common Side Effects
G. lucidum is generally well-tolerated. Its extract is likely safe for up to one year, and the whole mushroom in a powder form is also likely safe for up to 16 weeks. But some possible common side effects may include:
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Itchiness
- Nausea
- Rash
- Sleeping problems
- Stomach upset
You may also notice the following side effects from the caffeine in Ganoderma coffee:
- Acid reflux
- Frequent need to urinate (pee)
- High blood pressure
Severe Side Effects
A severe allergic reaction is a serious side effect possible with any medication. If you’re having a severe allergic reaction to G. lucidum or caffeine, symptoms may include breathing difficulties, itchiness, and rash.
Other potential severe side effects with G. lucidum may also include:
- Abnormal white blood cell count: A possible side effect of G. lucidum is an abnormal white blood cell (WBC) count—specifically leukocytes. Leukocytopenia (low amounts of leukocytes) may increase your risk of infections. Be on the lookout for symptoms of an infection.
- Liver problems: Liver problems might be possible with G. lucidum. If you’re having liver problems, symptoms may include dark-colored urine and yellowing of the eyes.
Call 911 and get medical help immediately if you’re having a severe allergic reaction or any of your symptoms feel life-threatening.
Precautions
Your healthcare provider may advise against using G. lucidum if any of the following applies to you:
- Severe allergic reaction: If you have a severe allergic reaction to G. lucidum, caffeine, and any of its components (ingredients), you shouldn’t take Ganoderma coffee.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: There’s limited information on G. lucidum during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. And caffeine may pass on to the unborn fetus and your nursing baby. Reach out to your healthcare provider to discuss the benefits and risks of Ganoderma coffee while pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Children: Many of G. lucidum’s product labels likely target adults—not children. And children might be more sensitive to the effects of caffeine. If you are considering Ganoderma coffee for your child, have a conversation with your child’s healthcare provider first.
- Adults over 65: Older adults participated in some G. lucidum-related clinical trials—like for enlarged prostate. But to better assess the effects and safety of Ganoderma coffee in older adults, more recent, larger, and well-designed studies are needed. Some older adults may be more sensitive to side effects from medications. For this reason, take G. lucidum with caution.
- Liver problems: Liver problems might be possible with G. lucidum. For this reason, your healthcare provider may recommend against G. lucidum if you have a liver condition.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Caffeine may cause acid reflux, which might worsen your GERD symptoms. For this reason, your healthcare provider may recommend limiting caffeine consumption.
Dosage: How Much Ganoderma lucidum Should I Take?
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your needs.
In general, the typical daily dose for adults ranged between 1,400 to 5,400 milligrams (mg). And this is usually divided up throughout the day into multiple doses. But G. lucidum has different dosage forms. What’s more, larger and well-designed clinical trials are still needed. For this reason, there are no guidelines on the appropriate dosage to take G. lucidum for any condition.
If you choose to take G. lucidum, follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations or label instructions.
What Happens If I Take Too Much Ganoderma lucidum?
In a systematic review, G. lucidum wasn’t linked to major toxicities. But you may experience nausea and sleeping problems from taking too much G. lucidum.
Too much caffeine may also result in withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking caffeine. Caffeine withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Irritability
- Nausea
- Problems with focus (concentration)
Caffeine overdoses are also possible. And symptoms may include:
- Agitation
- Breathing difficulties
- Confusion
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Frequent need to urinate (pee)
- Hallucinations
- Increased thirst
- Muscle twitches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Seizures
- Sleeping problems
If you think you’re experiencing an overdose or life-threatening symptoms, get medical help immediately.
Interactions
Use caution when taking G. lucidum with the following:
- Blood pressure medications: G. lucidum may lower your blood pressure. This may have additive effects with your antihypertensive medications, such as Microzide (hydrochlorothiazide). Symptoms of excessively low blood pressure may include lightheadedness and fainting spells.
- Blood thinners: G. lucidum may thin out your blood. This may worsen the bleeding and bruising side effects of blood thinners, such as warfarin.
- Diabetes medications: G. lucidum may lower your blood sugar. For this reason, this herb may have additive effects with your diabetes medications, such as insulin. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include sweating, tremors, and excessive tiredness.
Use caution when taking caffeine with the following:
- Asthma medications: Caffeine has a similar structure to a medication called Theo-24 (theophylline). While theophylline isn’t commonly used anymore, it’s an asthma medication. Similar to theophylline, caffeine may relieve asthma symptoms. As a result, caffeine may affect how other asthma medications work and raise the risk of side effects.
- Heart-related medications: Caffeine may affect your heart rate and blood pressure. For this reason, it may interact with your heart-related medicines.
- Stimulants: Caffeine may keep you awake like stimulants for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This might raise the risk of side effects, such as increased heart rate.
It is essential to carefully read a supplement’s ingredient list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included. Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.
How to Store Ganoderma lucidum
Since storage instructions may vary for different natural products, carefully read the directions and packaging label on the container. But in general, keep your medications tightly closed and out of the reach of children and pets, ideally locked in a cabinet or closet. Try to store your medicines in a cool and dry place.
Discard after one year or as indicated on the packaging. Avoid putting unused and expired drugs down the drain or in the toilet. Visit the FDA’s website to know where and how to discard all unused and expired medications. You can also find disposal boxes in your area.
Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider if you have any questions about the best ways to dispose of your medications or supplements.
Similar Supplements
Ganoderma is a genus (group) of over 300 different species of fungi that grow on live trees. There are three species that you may typically see in traditional Asian medicine:
- Ganoderma lucidum
- Ganoderma sinense
- Ganoderma lingzhi
Together, these three species are known as Ling Zhi in traditional Chinese medicine. While in Japan, they are collectively known as Reishi.
There is also a European species called G. lucidum, which isn’t the same as the east Asian species of this name. For this reason, the new name for the east Asian version of G. lucidum is Ganoderma sichuanense.
But there are so many Ganoderma species. What’s more, numerous research publications use the G. lucidum name. For this reason, it’s hard to tell the difference between these species, especially regarding effects and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common dosage form for Ganoderma lucidum?
Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum) is available in several different dosage forms—with capsules potentially being the most common.
Is G. lucidum available from manufacturers in the United States?
Yes. There are G. lucidum products made by manufacturers in the United States.
How do I take G. lucidum safely?
To take natural medications—like G. lucidum—safely, inform your healthcare providers and pharmacists about any medication changes. This includes over-the-counter (OTC), herbal, natural medications, and supplements.
They can help prevent possible interactions and side effects. They can also ensure you’re giving G. lucidum a fair trial at appropriate doses.
Sources of Ganoderma lucidum & What to Look For
There are several different sources of G. lucidum.
Food Sources of Ganoderma lucidum
G. lucidum is naturally available as fungi that grow on live trees. You may also see this mushroom used for tea or coffee.
Dietary changes may interact with your medications or affect your medical conditions. For this reason, talk with your healthcare provider first. They will help you safely make any dietary changes.
Ganoderma lucidum Supplements
G. lucidum is available in various forms, including capsules and tablets. If you have difficulties swallowing pills, G. lucidum might also be available in liquid and powder dosage forms. G. lucidum may also have vegetarian options.
The specific product you choose will depend on your preference and what you hope to get in terms of effects. Each product may work a bit differently, depending on the form. So, following your healthcare provider’s recommendations or label directions is important.
Summary
Ganoderma coffee is a beverage that contains Ganoderma lucidum. G. lucidum is a mushroom, which is a type of fungus. So, you might hear Ganoderma coffee being called mushroom coffee. You may also find G. lucidum in some teas.
G. lucidum is unlikely to lower your cholesterol levels. But there are studies for its other potential uses.
- Diabetes: G. lucidum may help the body respond to insulin. This way, your muscles and fat can appropriately use the sugar from your diet. But G. lucidum doesn’t address heart-related risk factors, such as high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.
- Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)—like in an enlarged prostate condition.
- Cancer: In cancer, G. lucidum shouldn’t be used as a first-choice option. While it might be used as add-on therapy to usual cancer treatment, it’s unclear if G. lucidum helps you live longer.
More recent research with larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed better to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of these potential uses. In particular, future cancer-related research should focus on long-term cancer survival.
While G. lucidum is generally well-tolerated, side effects and medication interactions are possible. Before taking G. lucidum, reach out to your pharmacist or healthcare provider to help you safely achieve your health goals.
