NutriStack
Acyclovir and Reishi, a synergy.
Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) polysaccharides have antiviral activity against HSV-1 and HSV-2 in vitro, and a small clinical study reported faster recovery of herpes labialis and genitalis with reishi-containing formulas. Evidence for additive benefit with acyclovir is preliminary, but no pharmacokinetic interaction is established, and the combination is biologically plausible.
One pair, every claim cited. The two substances, the type, the mechanism, the recommendation, and the primary literature.
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What the row says.
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At a glance
- Pair type
- Synergy
- Evidence (highest tier)
- Emerging
- Source citations
- 2 sources
- Stack Score effect
- +2 to your Stack Score (per scored synergy row).
- Scope
- Supplement × Prescription
- Last verified
- May 30, 2026
Synergy · Emerging evidence
Synergy
What is happening. Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) polysaccharides have antiviral activity against HSV-1 and HSV-2 in vitro, and a small clinical study reported faster recovery of herpes labialis and genitalis with reishi-containing formulas. Evidence for additive benefit with acyclovir is preliminary, but no pharmacokinetic interaction is established, and the combination is biologically plausible.
Mechanism. Acidic protein-bound polysaccharides from Ganoderma lucidum interfere with HSV attachment to cells and have immunomodulatory effects on macrophages and NK cells. Acyclovir works downstream by blocking viral DNA polymerase.
Recommendation. Reishi may be used as a low-risk adjunct during HSV outbreaks while taking acyclovir, but it should not replace antiviral therapy. Be aware reishi has mild antiplatelet activity at high doses; stop before surgery.
Sources (2)
- Eo SK, et al. Possible mode of antiviral activity of acidic protein bound polysaccharide isolated from Ganoderma lucidum on herpes simplex viruses. J Ethnopharmacol. 2000;72(3):475-81. PMID 10996289
- Hijikata Y, Yamada S, Yasuhara A. Herbal mixtures containing the mushroom Ganoderma lucidum improve recovery time in patients with herpes genitalis and labialis. J Altern Complement Med. 2007;13(9):985-7. PMID 18047445
Stack Score
How this pair moves the number.
Effect on the composite score
If both Acyclovir and Reishi are in the same stack, this pair applies +2 to your Stack Score (per scored synergy row).
The full algorithm, the clamping rules, and four worked stacks are documented at /methodology/stack-score.
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