Reishi is an herbal mushroom believed by some to have health benefits, though there is little evidence of its efficacy. Plenty of information on the various uses of Reishi is available online. Because of its bitter taste, Reishi is traditionally prepared as a hot water extract product. It is not intended to be eaten as a culinary mushroom. Thinly sliced or pulverized dried Reishi is added to boiling water which is then reduced to a simmer, covered, and left for 2 hours. ^{The resulting liquid is dark and fairly bitter in taste. The process is sometimes repeated to increase the concentration. To reduce the bitter taste, some users will add fruit juices, sweeteners and herbs. Alternatively, it can be used as an ingredient in a formula decoction, or used to make an extract (in liquid, capsule, or powder form).}