Mushroom Myths and Legends: Part 1 (Reishi, a Mushroom for the Immortals?)

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) has gained a reputation as the “mushroom of immortality” thanks to its numerous health benefits. According to many sources, it has been used as a tonic in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Key Points Reishi has been the subject of many myths and legends, especially in East Asian cultures It is often known as the “mushroom of immortality,” but the origin of this name is unclear Reishi has numerous benefits, but has probably not been used for thousands of years as some sources suggest Other substances, including certain hallucinogens, may have been used more widely than reishi in ancient times However,