Lingzhi Side Effects
Sometimes called reishi or ganoderma, lingzhi is a type of mushroom native to Asia. Despite its use by herbalists to treat conditions such as altitude sickness, cancer, fatigue, hepatitis and hypertension, lingzhi poses a risk for side effects in some patients.
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Features
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In Asia, lingzhi mushrooms are commonly eaten as food with no adverse effects, which indicates that consuming small amounts---2 to 10 grams per day---is generally safe for most people, explains New York University's Langone Medical Center.
Types
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Using lingzhi as a supplement for long periods (months or years) may cause dry mouth, throat or nasal itching, stomach upset, nosebleed and bloody stools, reports the Physicians' Desktop Reference.
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Drug Interactions
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Lingzhi may decrease blood pressure levels, posing a risk when taken with high blood pressure drugs, reports RxList. When taken with blood thinners, lingzhi increases your risk of prolonged or uncontrollable bleeding after an injury or surgery.
Risks
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Some patients experience severe allergic reactions to lingzhi, resulting in hives, shortness of breath, chest pain and swelling of the face, extremities or throat, warns the Physicians' Desktop Reference.
Considerations
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Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, avoid using lingzhi if you are pregnant or nursing. If you have a history of bleeding disorders or hypotension, it may not be safe for you to take lingzhi, cautions RxList.
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