What Are the Benefits of Glossy Ganoderma?

Also called the reishi mushroom, and the lingzhi mushroom, among other names, the glossy ganoderma (Ganoderma lucidum) is a mushroom used in alternative medicinal systems for a variety of benefits. Modern scientific evidence has shown potential benefits that back up alternative claims.

Tumors and Cancer

Glossy ganoderma mushrooms have beneficial effect on tumors and certain cancers.

Viruses and Bacteria

Due to containing ganodermic acid, glossy ganoderma mushrooms have anti-bacterial and anti-viral benefits.

Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

Glossy ganoderma mushrooms can lower blood pressure and cholesterol by inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Liver

Also due to its ganodermic acid, glossy ganoderma mushrooms may protect the liver from viruses.

Misconceptions

Due to an alleged weight loss benefit, glossy ganoderma mushrooms are sold as weight loss supplements.

History

According to the Pen-ts'ao Kang-mu (1600s Chinese medical text), the glossy ganoderma "... cures the accumulation of pathogenic factors in the chest. It is good for the Qi of the head, including mental activities... Long term consumption will lighten the body; you will never become old. It lengthens years."

References

• The Pharmacological Potential of Mushrooms
• Ganoderma - a Therapeutic Fungal Biofactory.
• Ganodermin, an Antifungal Orotein from Fruiting Bodies of the Medicinal Mushroom Ganoderma Lucidum.

Resources

• Medicinally Important Mushrooms
• Investigation of Potential Antibacterial Properties
• Anti-hepatitis B Activities of Ganoderic Acid from Ganoderma Lucidum