Ganoderma Lucidum Side Effects
For more than 4,000 years, traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine have included Ganoderma lucidum as a remedy to promote longevity and treat asthma, cough, fatigue and liver disorders, according to Drugs.com.
For more than 4,000 years, traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine have included Ganoderma lucidum as a remedy to promote longevity and treat asthma, cough, fatigue and liver disorders, according to Drugs.com. More commonly known as reishi or ling zhi, this large, woody mushroom is sometimes used by cancer and HIV patients as an immune system booster, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Most side effects are mild.
Most Common Effects
The most common side effects associated with Ganoderma lucidum are dizziness, dry nose and throat, headache, and skin irritation that may involve itching or a rash. A small percentage of patients experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort when taking Ganoderma lucidum, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Symptoms may include upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Abnormal Bleeding
Ganoderma lucidum contains a component called adenosine, which may inhibit platelet aggregation and lead to blood thinning, says Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. This can lead to prolonged bleeding from even minor injuries, or gastric bleeding, such as with ulcers. If you have a bleeding disorder, or are taking anticoagulant medications, discuss the safety of taking Ganoderma lucidum supplements with your physician.
Liver Damage
An extremely rare, serious side effect of Ganoderma lucidum powder involves liver damage, as noted by a study published in a 2007 issue of the "Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand." The authors report the case of a patient who experienced liver toxicity after taking the powder. In another case, a patient developed fatal hepatitis after taking a similar preparation. Both had used the powder for one to two months, and neither had experienced toxic effects when previously taking Ganoderma lucidum in a traditional boiled form.