A Hyderabad store has left shoppers baffled by placing an eye-watering ₹5 lakh price tag on a single mushroom. Social media erupted when a viral video by @sudhakarudumula on X (formerly Twitter) showcased the rare red Reishi mushroom, weighing between 5.5 and 6 kg, sitting in an upscale store in Banjara Hills.
The video, captioned “₹5 Lakh Mushroom Stuns Shoppers at City Store,” sparked curiosity and disbelief. What could possibly justify this astronomical price?
What are Reishi mushrooms?
According to clinical nutritionist and diabetes educator Kanikka Malhotra, Reishi mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum) have been revered in traditional Asian medicine for over 2,000 years.
₹5 Lakh Mushroom Stuns Shoppers at City Store
Spotted at a high-end food store in Banjara Hills, this exquisite Reishi Mushroom, priced at a jaw-dropping ₹5 lakh, is a rare sight. Weighing 5.5-6 kg, its stunning red hue and glossy, wax-like finish make it a true showpiece.… pic.twitter.com/0jsgzoyUmr
— Sudhakar Udumula (@sudhakarudumula) January 25, 2025
Often called the “Mushroom of Immortality,” these fungi have been widely used in Chinese and Japanese herbal medicine for their reputed health benefits. Their distinctive vibrant red hue and smooth, waxy texture make them stand out, but it’s their medicinal properties that command such a high price.
The health benefits of Reishi mushrooms
Malhotra explains that Reishi mushrooms are rich in bioactive compounds, including beta-glucans and triterpenoids, which contribute to their many health benefits:
- Immune System Boost – Reishi mushrooms are known to enhance immune function by stimulating white blood cells, helping the body fight infections more effectively.
- Stress Reduction – Due to their adaptogenic properties, they may help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Improved Sleep Quality – Traditionally used as a sleep aid, Reishi mushrooms may improve sleep cycles and reduce insomnia symptoms.
- Antioxidant Properties – The mushroom is packed with antioxidants, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Heart Health Support – Some studies suggest they may lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to better cardiovascular health.
The risks: Who should avoid reishi mushrooms?
Despite their benefits, Malhotra warns that not everyone should consume Reishi mushrooms. Potential risks include:
- Allergic Reactions – Some individuals may experience skin rashes or breathing difficulties.
- Digestive Issues – Consuming Reishi in high doses may lead to upset stomach, nausea, or diarrhea.
- Increased Bleeding Risk – Those on anticoagulants or with low platelet counts should avoid it, as it can thin the blood.
- Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women – Due to limited research on its effects, it is best avoided unless prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Why is this mushroom so expensive?
The Hyderabad store’s price tag isn’t just about its size—Reishi mushrooms are notoriously difficult to cultivate. Wild Reishi grows in specific climate conditions, often in dense forests on decaying hardwood trees. Cultivated versions require precise conditions and take months, sometimes years, to mature. Given their medicinal reputation and rarity, the price skyrockets, especially for premium-grade specimens.