Can I take Lion's mane and Reishi together?

Why this happens

Both supplements contain bioactive compounds (like polysaccharides) that can interfere with how blood clots and how the body processes glucose. Combining them may have an additive effect on these processes.

How to know if you're having a drug interaction

You may be experiencing an interaction between lions mane and reishi if:

• You develop digestive issues, 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, possibly due to immune system stimulation.

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

• You have increased bruising or bleeding, especially if taking blood-thinning medicines.

• Symptoms appear shortly after starting or increasing the dose of either supplement.
  

What you should do

It is usually fine to take these together. However, if you are scheduled for surgery, stop taking both at least two weeks beforehand.

If you have diabetes or take blood-thinning medication (such as warfarin or aspirin), monitor your blood sugar and watch for unusual bruising or bleeding.

Consult your GP before starting this combination if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

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

• Stop taking the supplements and see if your symptoms improve.

• Speak to your GP or pharmacist for personalised advice.

• Seek urgent medical help if you develop severe allergic reactions, 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

Bleeding disorders or upcoming surgery

Both supplements may slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. You must stop taking them at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgery.

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Reishi can lower blood pressure significantly. If you already have low blood pressure or take medication to control it, this supplement could cause your blood pressure to drop to dangerous levels.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking these supplements. Both Lion's Mane and Reishi can have calming or sedative effects on the central nervous system; combining them with alcohol may increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. Additionally, Reishi may affect liver function in some individuals, and alcohol can further strain the liver.

Caffeine

Reishi is often used for its potential to lower blood pressure and promote relaxation. Caffeine is a stimulant that increases heart rate and blood pressure. Consuming high amounts of caffeine may counteract the calming effects of Reishi.

Foods with anticoagulant properties (e.g., Garlic, Ginger, Turmeric)

Reishi may slow blood clotting. Consuming very large medicinal amounts of other foods that also thin the blood might increase the risk of bruising or bleeding.

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.