Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) | Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Adaptogens | Adaptogens |
| Standard Dose | — | 1000-3000mg daily (dual extract: hot water + alcohol for both polysaccharides and triterpenes) |
| Timing | — | Evening preferred (calming, supports sleep). With meals. |
| Cycle Duration | — | ongoing or cycle 12 weeks on, 4 weeks off |
| Evidence Level | Moderate | moderate_human |
Contains cycloastragenol and astragaloside IV which activate telomerase (hTERT). Adaptogenic — modulates immune function, reduces inflammation, and supports cardiovascular health. Used in traditional Chinese medicine for Qi tonification.
Reishi contains triterpenoids (ganoderic acids, >130 identified) and polysaccharides (beta-glucans). Ganoderic acids inhibit histamine release, 5-alpha-reductase (DHT reduction), and ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme). Beta-glucans (1,3/1,6-D-glucan) activate innate immunity via Dectin-1, CR3, and TLR-2 receptors on macrophages, dendritic cells, and NK cells. Reishi modulates the adaptive immune system by promoting Th1/Th2 balance and enhancing regulatory T-cell function. It also supports GABAergic signaling (calming effect), inhibits NF-kB, and modulates gut microbiome composition. Triterpenes support liver function via Phase I/II enzyme modulation.
1000-3000mg daily (dual extract: hot water + alcohol for both polysaccharides and triterpenes)
Evening preferred (calming, supports sleep). With meals.
ongoing or cycle 12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
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