Can I take Cordyceps and Reishi together?

Why this happens

Both cordyceps and reishi have 'antiplatelet' effects, meaning they make the blood less likely to clot. When used together, this effect is additive. Additionally, both fungi can mimic or enhance the effects of insulin, leading to a combined lowering of blood glucose.

How to know if you're having a drug interaction

You may be experiencing an interaction between cordyceps and reishi if:

• You develop digestive symptoms, such as nausea, bloating, diarrhoea, or stomach discomfort.

• You feel unusually tired, dizzy, or weak after taking both supplements.

• You notice headaches or flu-like symptoms, which may be linked to immune system stimulation.

• You experience allergic reactions, such as itching, rash, or swelling.

• You have increased bruising or bleeding, particularly if you also take blood-thinning medicines.

• Symptoms start soon after beginning or increasing the dose of either supplement.
  

What you should do

It is generally safe for healthy individuals to take these together in moderate amounts, but you should monitor for signs of easy bruising or bleeding gums. If you are scheduled for surgery, stop taking both at least two weeks beforehand. If you have diabetes or take blood-thinning medication (like warfarin or aspirin), consult your doctor before combining these supplements.

If you have any of the above symptoms, you should:

• Stop taking the supplements and monitor whether symptoms improve.

• Speak to your GP or pharmacist for personalised advice.

• Seek urgent medical help if you develop severe allergic symptoms, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.

• Tell your healthcare professional about all medicines and supplements you are taking.

• Avoid restarting the supplements until a healthcare professional confirms it is safe.

Important precautions

Auto-immune conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)

These supplements can stimulate the immune system, which may worsen the symptoms of autoimmune conditions or interfere with immunosuppressant medications.

Bleeding disorders or upcoming surgery

Both cordyceps and reishi can significantly increase the risk of bleeding. You must stop taking these at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgery and avoid them if you have a bleeding disorder or take blood-thinning medication (like warfarin).

Diabetes (on medication)

Both Cordyceps and Reishi can lower blood sugar levels. Taking them alongside insulin or other diabetes medications significantly increases the risk of severe hypoglycaemia (dangerously low blood sugar).

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Reishi can lower blood pressure and may cause it to drop too low if you already have low blood pressure or are taking medication to treat it.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking these supplements. Both Cordyceps and Reishi may have effects on the liver or blood sugar levels, and alcohol can increase the risk of liver strain or cause unpredictable changes in blood sugar. Additionally, Reishi can have a sedative effect which alcohol may intensify.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Cordyceps may have mild stimulant properties. Consuming caffeine alongside this supplement may increase feelings of jitteriness, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty sleeping.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.