Mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and modern research is beginning to explain why they might matter for cardiovascular health. The answer points largely to their polysaccharides, especially beta-glucans found in reishi (Ganoderma lucidum).
Atherosclerosis, the process behind most heart disease, is now understood as a chronic inflammatory condition. A 2025 review in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules summarized the evidence: reishi polysaccharides show anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and can improve endothelial dysfunction and attenuate atherosclerosis in experimental models. Mechanistically, they appear to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-1β, partly by inhibiting NF-κB activation and reducing the inflammatory polarization of macrophages. A 2024 review in Heliyon adds that these polysaccharides may also regulate gut microbiota and improve blood glucose and lipid levels, all factors linked to cardiovascular risk.
But the caveat matters. Most of this evidence comes from animal and cell studies. The same 2024 review states that clinical application “remains to be discovered.” This is promising biology, not a proven human therapy.
For your plate, the practical takeaway is simple. Mushrooms contain genuinely interesting bioactive compounds, but concentrated extracts are not the same as food. Include reishi, shiitake, oyster, and button mushrooms as part of a varied, whole-food diet. Enjoy them as food, and let the science continue to develop.
