The reishi mushroom also known as Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi is a fungus that grows in various hot and humid locations in Asia For many years this fungus has been a staple in Eastern medicine While the mushrooms themselves can be eaten fresh it is also common to use powdered forms of the mushroom or extracts that contain these specific molecules. One of the most important effects of the reishi mushroom is that it can boost your immune system Reishi’s effects on the immune system are often most emphasized but it has other potential advantages as well. These include reduced fatigue and depression as well as improved quality of life. In addition to its effects on the immune system and quality of life reishi mushroom has been studied for its potential to improve other aspects of health. Antioxidants are molecules that can help prevent damage to your cells Because of this important function there is substantial interest in foods and supplements that can enhance antioxidant status in the body. Many claim that reishi mushroom is effective for this purpose. However several studies have found no change in the levels of two important antioxidant enzymes in the blood after consuming the fungus for 4 to 12 weeks