Reishi, fatigue and sleep
Reishi mushroom has been traditionally used as a medicinal herb to treat various health conditions, including fatigue and sleep issues. The exact mechanisms of how Reishi mushroom can help reduce fatigue and promote better sleep are not fully understood, but here is what we know so far:
Reishi mushroom can improve the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play an important role in regulating mood, sleep and wakefulness. These neurotransmitters have an impact on the regulation of sleep and wakefulness, as well as on reducing stress and anxiety, which can contribute to fatigue and sleep problems.
Reishi mushroom contains various bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides and triterpenes, which have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, including the ability to improve the function of the immune system. This can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are thought to contribute to fatigue and other health problems, including sleep disturbances.
Reishi mushroom reduces stress and anxiety, which can have a positive impact on fatigue and sleep. This is likely due to the presence of adaptogenic compounds in Reishi mushroom, which have a calming effect on the mind and body.
Neurotransmitters
Reishi mushroom can modulate neurotransmitters in the human body, which are chemical messengers that regulate various physiological functions such as mood, appetite, and sleep. The active compounds present in reishi mushroom, such as polysaccharides and triterpenes, are thought to play a role in this process.
Chronic inflammation has been linked to imbalances in neurotransmitter levels, particularly in the case of serotonin, which is commonly known as the “feel-good” hormone. By reducing inflammation, reishi mushroom may help to restore normal levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters, leading to improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Reishi mushroom may impact the neurotransmitter dopamine, which plays a role in regulating mood, motivation, and movement. Dopamine levels are commonly imbalanced in individuals with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and depression. The compounds present in reishi mushroom, such as ganoderic acids, are thought to have the potential to increase the levels of dopamine and improve mood.
Reishi mushroom may impact the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which plays a key role in regulating anxiety and sleep. GABA acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, reducing the activity of neurons and promoting relaxation. Reishi mushroom increases the levels of GABA in the brain, potentially leading to reduced symptoms of anxiety and improved sleep.
It should be noted that much of the research on the mechanisms by which reishi mushroom modulates neurotransmitters is based on animal studies and further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms by which these compounds interact with neurotransmitter systems in the human body. However, the results of these studies are promising and suggest that reishi mushroom may have potential as a natural approach to improving mood, reducing anxiety, and promoting better sleep.