INTERACTION BETWEEN REISHI 'LING ZHI' MUSHROOM AND WARFARIN

WHAT IS IT?

• Reishi mushroom is commonly known as ‘Ling Zhi’ in Chinese with a scientific name, ‘Ganoderma lucidum’.
• Reishi mushroom is primarily composed of complex carbohydrates called water-soluble polysaccharides, triterpeniods, proteins and amino acids which aids in its beneficial effects.

RATIONALE:

• The polysaccharide content of Reishi mushroom is responsible for possible anticancer and immun0stimulatory effects.
• May also provide hepatoprotective action, antiviral activity, and beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and diabetes. 

BLOOD THINNING PROPERTIES:

Many references stated that Reishi mushroom has some interactions with anticoagulants where it may enhances the blood thinning properties; to cause bleeding in patient. This interaction is summarized by UpToDate, where the risk associated with concomitant use of Reishi mushroom and warfarin is classified as Category D.

Category D: Consider Therapy Modification

“Data demonstrate that the two medications may interact with each other in a clinically significant manner. A patient-specific assessment must be conducted to determine whether the benefits of concomitant therapy outweigh the risks. Specific actions must be taken in order to realize the benefits and/or minimize the toxicity resulting from concomitant use of the agents. These actions may include aggressive monitoring, empiric dosage changes, choosing alternative agents”

RECOMMENDATION:

Caution is advised in people with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.

References:

1. http://www.reishi.com/what-is-reishi.html

2. http://www.drugs.com/npp/reishi-mushroom.html

3. http://www.uptodate.com.

4. https://my.clevelandclinic.org