Benefits Of Ganoderma Lucidum

Ganoderma lucidum is the botanical name for a mushroom more commonly known as reishi or lingzhi mushroom. The fungus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for more than 2,000 years, where it is locally referred to as the "mushroom of immortality." As the latter moniker suggests, the mushroom is regarded as an elixir of eternal youth. Ganoderma lucidum is also promoted for a variety of health-giving benefits, such as countering fatigue, inflammation, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and even HIV infection and AIDS. Reishi mushroom does present side effects and drug interactions, however, so check with your doctor before using this herbal medicine.

Description

Ganoderma lucidum is a spongy, kidney-shaped mushroom with a red cap that lacks gills. It grows at the base of a variety of tree species native to Asia, Europe, Africa and North and South America. According to Gary H. Lincoff, author of the "National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Mushrooms," the fungus is particularly fond of maple trees. The mushroom is also cultivated indoors and out under controlled conditions or environments.

Chemistry

According to the Sloan-Kettering Institute, Ganoderma lucidum contains proteinase triterpenes, collectively referred to as Ganoderic acids. The mushroom also contains a type of plant carbohydrate called beta-d-glucan and the plant sterol ergosterol, a natural precursor to vitamin B-12. Other constituents include ascorbic acid, riboflavin and several alkaloids, lipids, amino acids and coumarins.

Anti-Cancer Activity

According to a paper authored by scientists at Massey University in New Zealand, the beta-glucan polysaccharides and triterpenes in Ganoderma lucidum improve immune function in people with advanced-stage cancer. The study abstract, which appeared in the August 2003 issue of "Immunological Investigations," reported a significant increase in natural killer cell activity in 34 cancer patients given Ganoderma lucidum extract for 12 weeks.

Other Benefits

Sloan-Kettering states that triterpene compounds in Ganoderma lucidum are reputed to be adaptogenic, which means they help the body to recover from stress. These agents also appear to provide antioxidant properties and have positive effects against allergies and high blood pressure. In addition, these compounds inhibit 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which can lead to enlarged prostate and benign prostatic hyperplasia. According to a study published in the Sept. 10, 2008 issue of "Asian Journal of Andrology," Ganoderma lucidum extract demonstrates more 5-alpha-reductase inhibitory activity than many other medicinal mushrooms and improves urine flow in men with mild-to-moderate lower urinary tract symptoms.

Safety

Ganoderma lucidum may increase the effects of certain medications, including immunosuppressant drugs, chemotherapy agents and blood-thinning medications. The polysaccharides in this mushroom also interfere with a class of psychiatric medications known as cytochrome P450 substrates. Consult your physician before using reishi mushroom to self-treat an existing condition or if you take other medications.