What are the differences between CBD for pets and CBD made for humans?

The differences are often small, but extremely important to note when choosing CBD for pets and humans. Human CBD often is flavored with ingredients that can be toxic to pets like xylitol and other sugars or sweeteners. All of our CBD oils for pets are completely natural and unflavored to ensure it is the purest botanical extract mixed with MCT Oil.

How long do CBD effects last in pets?

CBD for dogs and cats is a completely individualized pet supplement and every pet is different. Results may vary depending on your pet’s size, age, and predisposition. Remember that CBD for dogs and cats is a botanical extract, so it is ok to experiment with your pet’s CBD dosage to find the best results. With any pet supplement it is a good practice to start low and gradually increase on an as-needed basis.

How frequently should I give my cat or dog CBD?

Earth Buddy suggests for best results give your cat or dog CBD 1-2 times per day. When trying to manage stress, daily use leading up to triggering events is optimal in combination with administering CBD to your dog or cat 30 minutes prior to triggering event will allow for best results. This pet CBD dosage guideline will help to maintain calmness and contentment during travel, grooming, thunderstorms, fireworks, environmental changes, or motion sickness from car rides.

Are there any scientific studies supporting the use of CBD for pets?

CBD for dogs and cats research is constantly evolving and there are plenty of CBD studies on animals to refer to. While many studies suggest higher clinical dosage levels of CBD for pets, Earth Buddy provides full-spectrum CBD for dogs and cats that believes in the theory known as the “entourage effect”, meaning the entirety of the plant extract provides a synergistic effect even in small CBD doses for pets. The synergy of full-spectrum CBD with other cannabinoids and terpenes promotes a multiplying effect that often requires lower dosage of CBD for pets.

How do I choose the right CBD product for my pet?

Take our Product Recommendation Quiz for direction on products or feel free to contact us anytime!

Blog | Dogs | Mushrooms for Dogs & Cats

Functional Mushrooms: Where Does Reishi Mushroom Grow?

February 9, 2024

Written By: Earth Buddy Team

Learn about the amazing benefits of reishi mushroom for dogs and cats that Earth Buddy uses in their pet supplements.

Reishi mushrooms, also known as Lingzhi in China and Ganoderma lucidum scientifically, hold significant importance in traditional medicine and culture, and are known as “the mushroom of immortality”. These mushrooms are renowned as medicinal mushrooms, supporting mental and physical well-being for humans and pets alike. But here’s the important question–where does the Reishi mushroom grow and what benefits does it have?

Species of Reishi Mushrooms

The Ganoderma mushrooms genus encompasses various species and varieties of Reishi mushrooms, each with its unique reddish-brown appearance and properties, making them a subject of interest for researchers and enthusiasts. Unlike many other fungi, reishi mushroom for dogs are technically edible, though their bitter taste and tough, woody texture make them less appealing for culinary use.

If you’re looking around for them, it’s important not to confuse them with a different polypore mushroom scientifically known as Fomitopsis pinicola, AKA the red belted conk.

Ganoderma lucidum

The Ganoderma lucidum species is particularly famous for supporting the immune system and helping maintain the general health of all ages and breeds. You’ll often hear of it as a sought-after ingredient in teas and tinctures. Reishi mushrooms have been utilized to promote well-being for centuries, and their cultural significance has only grown over time.

This species is characterized by its shiny top with pores releasing brown spores and is often found in tropical and subtropical regions, growing on dead or dying trees.

Ganoderma tsugae

Another species is Ganoderma tsugae, which is commonly found in North America, particularly in the eastern parts of the continent. It has a similar appearance to Ganoderma lucidum, but it is typically found growing on hemlock trees.

Ganoderma oregonense

Ganoderma oregonense is found in the Pacific Northwest, Midwest, and even parts of the Rocky Mountains in the United States and is known for its unique appearance with a red body that lightens to orange, yellow, and white toward the edges of the cap.

Ganoderma resinaceum

Ganoderma resinaceum, like its more famous relative Ganoderma lucidum (often referred to as Reishi or Lingzhi), is believed to support the immune system, promote normal inflammatory pathways, and prevent free radical damage.

Variation in Species Depending on Where Reishi Mushrooms Grow

Ganoderma curtisii, Ganoderma carnosum, and Ganoderma capense are other species of mushrooms that can be used to promote overall health, although there hasn’t been as much research on these species. These variations in species and varieties of Reishi mushrooms contribute to the rich biodiversity of this revered fungus and insight into why it’s so highly desired to promote the health of people and pets alike.

Natural Habitat and Geographic Distribution: Where Reishi Grows

Reishi mushrooms are commonly found growing on dead or dying hardwood trees in various parts of the world, including Asia, North America, and Europe. These mushrooms are typically distributed in wooded areas, often favoring dense and woody materials for their growth.

The geographical distribution and natural habitat of Reishi mushrooms play a crucial role in their availability for harvesting and cultivation. Understanding the preferred habitat and distribution of these mushrooms is essential for individuals interested in foraging or cultivating them for various purposes.

Where Does Reishi Mushroom Grow: The Trees To Look On

If you know the geographic distribution, you still need to know how to find Reishi mushrooms once you get there. They are often associated with hardwood logs from trees including oaks, maples, and elms, and are prevalent in wooded areas with high humidity and ample shade.

The environment in which reishi mushrooms thrive, often alongside plants like poison ivy on hardwood logs, adds another layer of complexity to their foraging. Knowledge of their habitat is essential, not only to locate these mushrooms but also to navigate the risks of encountering toxic plants

The seasonal aspects of Reishi mushroom growth indicate that they are most abundant during the summer and fall months, with their peak season varying based on the specific geographic location.

Growth and Appearance Varies Based on Location

When you’re speaking of Reishi, ask the question, “where does this Reishi mushroom grow?” In various regions, the types of Reishi mushrooms can differ in their appearances and growth patterns. For example, in some areas, Reishi mushrooms take the form of felt-tipped knobs when emerging, while in other regions, they may have a more conch-like appearance. Different Reishi species may exhibit variations in their properties and chemical compositions based on the specific environmental conditions of their habitat.

While reishi mushrooms are considered safe for consumption, their identification must be approached with caution due to the existence of poisonous look-alikes. These toxic plants and fungi can sometimes closely resemble reishi mushrooms, making accurate identification crucial for foragers.

A spore print, which involves pressing the mushroom’s cap onto a dark surface to capture the color and pattern of its spores, is one of the easiest methods to differentiate reishi from its potentially poisonous counterparts.The spore print, along with careful observation of growth habits and physical characteristics, helps ensure safe foraging.

Light and Humidity for Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms require specific climatic conditions for optimal growth. These mushrooms thrive in environments with high humidity and low light, typically preferring shaded areas with minimal exposure to direct sunlight.

The high humidity levels are essential for the growth and development of Reishi mushrooms, as they aid in the formation of the fruiting body.

The low light conditions also contribute to the growth process overall, making these mushrooms well-suited for cultivation in areas with limited sunlight. Reishi rarely grows in areas with a significant amount of sunlight.

Airflow Helps Reishi Mushrooms “Breathe”

Fresh airflow plays a crucial role in the growth of Reishi mushrooms. Adequate ventilation ensures that the mushrooms receive a constant supply of fresh air, which is vital for their development.

Insufficient airflow can lead to issues like excessive moisture buildup, which can create an environment conducive to contamination and hinder the growth of the mushrooms. It’s important to maintain the right balance of humidity, light, and airflow to create an ideal environment for the cultivation of Reishi mushrooms, whether it be in a natural or controlled setting.

The impact of fresh airflow on the growth of Reishi mushrooms is particularly noteworthy, as it ensures that the mushrooms receive the necessary oxygen and ventilation for their metabolic processes, ultimately influencing their growth and development. These specific climatic conditions, when combined, create an environment that is conducive to the cultivation and natural growth of Reishi mushrooms.

Differences in Distribution: Where Does Reishi Mushroom Grow on the Map?

In North America, Reishi mushrooms are commonly found in the eastern parts of the continent, particularly on hemlock trees. In Asia, especially in China and Japan, these mushrooms are prevalent in subtropical regions where the climate and environmental conditions are suitable to their growth. In Europe, Reishi mushrooms can be found in various wooded areas with the right combination of humidity, shade, and suitable tree species.

In regions with high humidity and ample shade, like subtropical forests, Reishi mushrooms thrive due to the favorable conditions that support their growth. The interaction of humidity, light, and airflow in these environments creates an optimal setting for the development of Reishi mushrooms, allowing them to establish their presence and contribute to the ecological balance discussed in this article.

They’re quite prevalent in many areas of the world, but not all mushrooms are safe to grab to develop products from. We’ll discuss this later, but keeping that in mind is important.

The Ecological Role in Reishi Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms, or Ganoderma lucidum, serve an integral function within forest ecosystems, primarily through their decomposition and nutrient recycling activities on dead trees and decaying wood.

This decomposition process is critical, as it leads to the liberation of vital nutrients into the soil, thereby nourishing the forest floor and fostering a conducive environment for the proliferation of plant life. Such activities bolster forest health and sustainability while also promoting biodiversity.

Reishi mushrooms are instrumental in preserving the equilibrium of forested regions, ensuring a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Growing Reishi Mycelium and Fruit Body

Cultivation of reishi mushrooms typically starts with grain spawn or agar culture, providing a controlled environment for growth before transferring to logs or other organic substrates. Reishi mushrooms are actually one of the easiest mushrooms to grow and cultivate, but several factors influence their growth and development. These factors are essential to consider for successful cultivation and the production of high-quality Reishi mushrooms.

The choice of substrate and cultivation method, such as using supplemented hardwood sawdust spawn or grow kits, can significantly impact the growth and yield of Reishi mushrooms. As you can see from their preferred natural environments, the environmental conditions, including humidity, light, and airflow, play a crucial role in creating an optimal setting for the cultivation of Reishi mushrooms. The availability of suitable resources, like dense woody material and freshly cut wood, also influences the growth and development of these mushrooms.

Harvesting and Storing Wild Mushrooms

Reishi mushrooms are typically harvested when they reach the antler or fully developed conch stage, depending on the desired size or shape. Harvesting should be done just before the fruit body drops its spores to ensure optimal quality and potency. Once harvested, the mushrooms can be stored by either refrigerating fresh Reishi mushrooms or drying them for teas or tinctures.

NOTE: Older Reishi mushrooms can harbor harmful mold and should be discarded.

Drying Your Own Reishi Mushrooms

When it comes to drying Reishi mushrooms, it’s essential to do so properly to maintain their beneficial properties. To dry the mushrooms, they can be sliced into thin strips (not chopped reishi mushrooms) and placed in a well-ventilated area with low humidity or in a food dehydrator at a low temperature. Once completely dry, the dried Reishi mushrooms can be stored in airtight containers in a cool, dark place for long-term use.

Label the Dried Mushrooms

Proper labeling of the harvested mushrooms is also crucial for easy identification and usage. Storing the dried mushrooms in clearly labeled containers with the date of harvest ensures that they can be used effectively and safely when needed. Fresh mushrooms should be used within a few days, while dried mushrooms can last for many months if stored correctly, preserving their beneficial properties for future use.

Follow The Steps to Grow Reishi Mushrooms

Harvesting and storing Reishi mushrooms in the correct manner is vital for maximizing their potential health benefits and properties. Following these techniques ensures that the mushrooms retain their potency and can be used effectively for various purposes, like making Reishi teas, tinctures, and extracts for promoting overall well-being.

Benefits of Reishi Mushroom for Dogs & Cats

Reishi mushrooms, known for their role in supporting overall well-being in humans, can also offer several benefits for pets. With over 800 bioactive compounds identified, Earth Buddy includes reishi mushrooms in all of our functional mushroom supplements for dogs and cats.

Reishi Provides Immune Support for Dogs & Cats

Reishi mushrooms are celebrated for supporting a healthy immune system in all animals, which can play a vital role in supporting physical and mental well-being. These functional mushrooms for dogs and cats contain a rich array of compounds that contribute to a more robust immune system.

When your pet consumes Reishi mushrooms, these compounds work synergistically to enhance the immune response. This means Reishi can help the body in combating environmental pollutants.

The active components in Reishi mushrooms, such as polysaccharides and triterpenoids, promote the activity of immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells. These cells are integral to the body’s defense mechanism as they promote the body’s innate resistance to pathogens. By supporting normal cell function, Reishi mushrooms provide immune support for cats and dogs.

Reishi to Add Antioxidants

Reishi mushrooms provide antioxidants for dogs and cats. Antioxidants have been shown to aid in the elimination of unstable oxygen molecules called free radicals. The antioxidants in Reishi mushrooms work by protecting against free radical damage, thereby reducing the negative effects of oxidative stress.

Reishi mushrooms for dogs and cats can also help eliminate free radicals associated with the aging process. Since this promotes cellular function, the protection can manifest in several ways including supporting normal nerve conduction and memory recall, helping maintain a healthy coat, and promoting healthy joints.

Reishi to Promote a Relaxed Disposition

Reishi mushrooms have been found to promote a sense of relaxation and mental alertness without drowsiness. These mushrooms contain natural compounds to promote homeostasis, which may be particularly beneficial for dogs exhibiting nervousness, hyperactivity, discontentment or responding to environmentally-induced stress.

When supplementing Reishi mushrooms for dogs and cats regularly, these fungi help promote normal hormone balance. This means they can help manage normal stress, help animals cope with external stresses, and support normal emotional balance.

Reishi to Help Maintain Normal Histamine Levels

Reishi mushrooms are known to promote normal inflammatory pathways, which can help maintain normal histamine levels. In addition to promoting normal histamine in the body, Reishi helps support normal detoxification processes promoting long-term physical and mental health.

The compounds found in Reishi mushrooms, including triterpenoids and polysaccharides, work by supporting the immune system. This means they can help enhance immune response and potentially soothe skin-related issues associated with seasonal allergies. Fortunately for our pets, this may also help with occasional discomfort and improve skin health.

Reishi for Liver Support

Reishi mushrooms are well-known for maintaining healthy liver function, a critical aspect of your pet’s overall health and wellness. The liver plays a pivotal role in the body, supporting normal cleansing or detoxification of the liver from impurities. It processes and eliminates toxins from the body, aids in digestion through bile production, and regulates a range of metabolic functions.

The active compounds in Reishi mushrooms, particularly triterpenoids and polysaccharides, have been shown to support liver health, enhancing its ability to function efficiently. This support to the liver is vital because it supports the body from exposure to heavy metal or environmental toxins.

The nutrients found in the Reishi mushroom for dogs also support metabolic functioning of the liver. This includes helping maintain blood glucose levels within normal range, supporting vascular health (which we’ll discuss momentarily), and assists in the digestion and absorption of essential nutrients.

Reishi to Support Cardiovascular Health

The heart, being a vital organ, is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to various tissues. A healthy cardiovascular system is crucial for maintaining the proper functioning of all bodily systems. The active components in Reishi mushrooms, particularly antioxidants and triterpenoids, help support normal cardiovascular function.

The antioxidants in Reishi mushrooms help combat oxidative stress. By protecting against free radical damage, these antioxidants protect the heart and blood vessels. This is yet another reason Reishi mushrooms are recommended for dogs seven years or older to support and maintain proper body functions and overall good quality of life.

Plus, Reishi mushrooms have been found to help support circulation. They support normal heart and vasculature functioning, helping promote normal circulation. This is crucial for supporting oxygen utilization and normal function of the cardiac muscle.

Reishi Mushroom Products

Reishi mushrooms have gained popularity for their potential benefits for pets, especially in supporting their immune system and overall health. These products are available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and tinctures, making it convenient for pet owners to incorporate them into their pets’ diet.

Allergy & Immune Support Mushroom Blend Tincture: This tincture contains not only full-spectrum Reishi, but four other mushrooms as well. Mushrooms are grown on organic millet, organic rye berries, and oak.
Immunity – Organic Mushrooms Powder for Dogs & Cats: Earth Buddy’s Immunity product is made with freeze-dried fruit body and mycelium extract to ensure there’s a full-spectrum of compounds within the product. Like all other Earth Buddy products, these mushrooms are grown in the USA.

Whether you purchase one of the products above or any other, it’s important for pet owners to carefully evaluate each product individually. Look for a third party analysis, or Earth Buddy’s lab results here, for each product you’re considering.

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