Reishi mushroom Ganoderma lucidum,Marvelous Lucky Fungus from Orient World.

Contents

• Ganoderma lucidum:the Reishi mushroom botanical information.
• What is Reishi and Varieties?What is Reishi Mushroom Extract?.
• Ganoderma lucidum:Constituents and Phytochemicals.
• Mechanism of Action:How it Works and Medical Properties.
• History and Fame of Reishi Mushroom.
• The Most Common Uses of Reishi Mushrooms.
• Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms:System Class and Alphabetic Order.
• Applications and Benefit Note On Ganoderma lucidum:Reishi Mushroom.
• Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom as King of Health Foods.
• Suggestions and Administrations.
• Ganoderma lucidum Pharmacology and Application.
• Ganoderma lucidum:Research update.

Applications and Benefit Note On Ganoderma lucidum:Reishi Mushroom.:

Reishi mushrooms have a long history of medical uses. Reishi had been recorded as having the most extensive and effective healing powers. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), reishi is indicated for the treatment of coronary heart disease, bronchial asthma, insomnia, impotence, hay fever, dizziness, stomach ulcers, depression, and debility from long-term illness. Today, reishi has various applications including lowering or raising blood pressure, stimulating liver actions, blood cleansing, and acting as an adaptogen in helping the body fight the effects of stress.

 Adaptogen:

 Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom is also an adaptogen, with properties similar to ginseng. The adenosine in Reishi may explain why the Chinese use it for patients suffering from nervous tension. Adenosine relaxes skeletal muscles, calms the central nervous system and operates against the stimulating action of caffeine.

 The Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom can increase the production of interleukin 1 and 2, resulting in inhibition of tumor growth. Studies show that Reishi can have a number of other positive effects on the body such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-viral (through its interferon production), lowers blood pressure. It also acts as a cardiotonic by lowering serum and increasing the production of interleukin 1 and 2, which results in inhibition of tumor cholesterol, expectorant, anti-tissue, liver protecting and detoxifying, protection against ionizing radiation, antibacterial, and anti-HIV activity.

 We live in artificial environments where air is filtered and food is processed. If we can keep our immune system functioning efficiently and strengthen our daily programs with natural immunity building supplements such as Reishi mushrooms, we can minimize the frequency and severity of illness and recover more quickly."Reishi mushrooms are certainly an herb for the 90s and beyond," commented Jeff Chilton, president of North American Reishi. "Considering that Reishi has a history of use that spans 2,000 years and is more highly revered than ginseng in the Orient, one could readily compare its potential to that of ginseng."

 Lingzhi contains 800-2,000 ppm of organic germanium, which is 4-5 times more than ginseng. Germanium is a trace element with adaptogenic functions.In addition to all of the ingredients in the fruit body, lingzhi mycelium contains higher level of the RNA (which disrupts viral diseases by inducing interferon production), oleic acid and cyclooctasulfur (both strong inhibitors of histamine release), LZ-8, (an immunomodulating protein which significantly reduces but doesn't entirely shut down antibody production).
 


 Anti-allergin, antioxidant, analgesic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antiviral, antiparasitic:

 Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom has been claimed to be anti-allergin, antioxidant, analgesic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antiviral, antiparasitic, cardiovascular, antidiabetic, immunomodulating, hepatoprotective, hypotensive and hypertensive, kidney and nerve tonic, and sexual potentiating. Reishi is used to treat a variety of disorders and promote vitality; it works as an antioxidant against free radicals, protects against the effects of radiation and has anti-inflammatory effects. Reishi intensifies the body's free radical scavenging ability and is especially effective against harmful hydroxyl radicals. Reishi is such a strong hydroxyl radical scavenger that its actions continue even after it is absorbed and metabolized.

 Ganoderic acids in Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom extract have also been found to be highly effective as anti-inflammatory agents, and in the treatment of severe liver problems.Reishi mushrooms also contain sterols, which influence the hormonal system, and natural antihistamines,The major components of lingzhi have proven to be a significant anti-inflammatory and inhibit malignant tumor growth.which reduce allergic reaction. Its glycosides and polysaccharides promise to be a new type of carcinostatic agent which would be helpful in immunotherapy.

 Reishi mushrooms also have strong antioxidant properties. They can be used to boost immunity and may also increase the effectiveness of antioxidant vitamins when the two substances are used together. Reishi mushrooms are believed to suppress tumor growth and are often used in cancer prevention efforts for this reason.

 Reishi mushrooms are also used for patients with Alzheimers disease and heart disease under the premise that inflammation may play a role in both conditions. Pain associated with other inflammatory conditions, such as infection by the herpes zoster virus and neuralgia may respond to treatment with reishi mushrooms as well. In fact, the historical use of reishi mushrooms to promote longevity is probably related to the fact that inflammation is a key factor in many chronic and degenerative diseases.

 While you protect your body against infectious disease, cancer and heart disease, your use of reishi can also help relieve your everyday discomforts. Do you have allergies? Researchers discovered that the lanostan in reishi acts as a natural antihistamine.


 Anti Aging/longevity :Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom is a source of antioxidants that prevent aging of the human tissues. The Reishi mushroom is well known in Chinese medicine as the “king of herbs.” The medicinal properties of reishi mushrooms have a legendary status. They are said to be capable of promoting longevity and health. Their therapeutic effects include the ability to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation. Reishi mushrooms are herbal mushrooms that have been used in China since ancient times. Its Chinese name is Lingzhi, which means “spiritual potency”.
 

 Anti Cancer:Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom is recognized to play a role in preventing spontaneous death in cancer patients. Reishi reinforces membrane of the cancerous cell to impede spreading. It also prevents thrombi formation aiding in fusion of medications within the system. Joint usage with other anti-tumor drugs and chemotherapy diminishes their side-effects and heightens their effect. It normalizes the overall body system thus decreases further health complications. Reishi's ability to inhibit thrombi formation with none of the side effects of modern medication proves to be invaluable contribution in the fight against cancer.

 The immune-boosting action also works wonders in the prevention and treatment of cancer, as the T-cells are then able to fight cancer cells more effectively. However, reishi may help the body defeat cancer in not just one, but four ways. In addition to boosting the immune system, the glucan in reishi helps immune cells bind to tumor cells. Many experts believe that it also actually reduces the number of cancerous cells, making it easier for T-cells and macrophages to rid the body of them. Another substance in reishi, called canthaxanthin, slows down the growth of tumors, according to "Prescription for Dietary Wellness" author Phyllis A. Balch and other experts. As a result of these amazing anti-cancer abilities, laboratory research and traditional medicinal usage of reishi to fight cancer is so positive.

 Reishi Mushroom Benefits in Asthma:Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom is particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma and other respiratory complaints.It has a healing effect on the lungs,Reishi is good for respiratory strength and for coughing. At least one population study confirms this claim. When more the 2000 Chinese with chronic bronchitis took reishi syrup during the 1970s, within two weeks, 60 to 90% felt better and reported an improved appetite, according to "Medicinal mushrooms,"
 

 Cardiovascular benefits:Ganoderic acids may lower blood pressure as well as decrease LDL ("bad") cholesterol. These specific triterpenoids also help reduce blood platelets from sticking together--an important factor in lowering the risk for coronary artery disease.

 During the 1980's scientists identified over 100 ganoderic acids (triterpenes) in Reishi mushrooms. Numerous studies in China and Russia have demonstrated marked cholesterol lowering abilities of these substances in humans, as well as other circulatory benefits.Triterpenoids, which have also been found in Reishi mushrooms, are responsible for blood pressure lowering and circulation improving.Ganoderic acids may lower blood pressure ands decrease LDL cholesterol.

 Reishi is known as a cardiotonic herb due to its ability to improve blood flow and reduce oxygen consumption in the heart muscle. Reishi eliminates cholesterol build-up and promotes blood circulation. Regular use of this mushroom helps regulate cholesterol levels and platelet activity in the bloodstream. The mushroom's active ingredients, called ganoderic acids, appear to combat high blood pressure and reduce LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. They may also discourage blood platelets from clumping together, thus reducing the risk of dangerous clots.

 The reishi mushroom appears to be effective against a range of additional ailments - cholesterosis, arteriosclerosis, hypertension, fatty liver, hemorrhoid, tooth-infections, obesity and various problems that arise from high serum cholesterol level compounded by a lack of blood circulation. Reishi is also recognized to have some effect in cases of stroke, cerebravascular accident, coronary insufficiency, myocardial infarction, - problems that arise directly from arterial blockage. Furthermore, it is found to be effective in treatment of typical dermatitis, bronchitis asthma, allergy rhinitis, chronic hepatitis etc. - problems related to allergic reactions

 Besides cancer, reishi can help and treat another of America's top killers: cardiovascular disease. The protection reishi offers against heart disease and stroke is truly remarkable because it helps prevent so many different risk factors, due to its high content of heart-saving substances like sterols, ganoderic acids, coumarin, mannitol and polysaccharides. Experts believe that the ganoderic acids in particular lower triglyceride levels, remove excess cholesterol from the blood, lower blood pressure, reduce platelet stickiness and even help correct arrhythmia. In fact, for 54 people with hypertension unresponsive to medication, taking reishi extract three times a day for four weeks was enough to significantly lower blood pressure, according to a study reported by Burton Goldberg in "Heart Disease." Just imagine how the incidence of cardiovascular disease could be reduced if using reishi really caught on in the Western hemisphere.


 Treat Hair Loss:Reishi is included in many hair loss formulas, including products used for alopecia. Spore extract injections of Reishi are also being used to treat lupus in China.

 The mycelium of Reishi contains high levels of polysaccharides, which have been shown in research to induce the production of interferon. Interferon is a protein produced inside cells to fight viral infection. Polysaccharides are also tumor fighters and help stimulate the immune system.
 

 Immune system stimulator:

 Reishi mushrooms contain polysaccharides that are known as anticancer agents and immune system stimulators. They help body fight cancerous tumors and protect it from different infections.

 Reishi contains polysaccharides and triterpenoids that are known to enhance immune system function.The primary function of herbs like reishi mushrooms is to increase disease resistance and normalize bodily functions. Research shows that the polysaccharide beta-1,3-D-glucan in reishi boosts the immune system by raising the amount of macrophages T-cells, which has major implications for people suffering from AIDS and other immune system disorders.

 Reishi is being recognized for its adjunct use as an immune system stimulator when cancer therapy is being used. The use of Reishi as a cancer treatment in the Orient is centuries old. In following the concept of qi tonics, Reishi is used to strengthen the body's resistance to outside forces.

 Chinese herbalists and modern research agree the Reishi mushroom can enhance immune function, protect the nervous system, improve heart function, inhibit allergic reactions, and kill cancer cells.The Pauling institute has also done extensive work, with considerable success, using Reishi in combination with Vitamin C to treat cancer. Mushrooms are a flavorful and nutritious food group. Good sources of B Vitamins Thiamine, Riboflavin and Niacin. They contain all the essential amino acids. Mushrooms have also been used for thousands of years as some of the most effective, yet benign, of many plants that formed the Oriental herbal tradition.

 The mycelium of reishi contains high levels of polysaccharides, which have been shown in research to induce the production of interferon. Interferon is a protein produced inside cells to fight viral infection. Polysaccharides are also tumor fighters and help stimulate the immune system. Reishi is also an adaptogen, with properties similar to ginseng. The adenosine relaxes skeletal muscles, calms the central nervous system and operates against the stimulating action of caffeine. Reishi activates the body's immunity system, increasing one's ability to fight against diseases, but it can also arrest the excessive production of allergen to regulate overall functions in the system.
 

 Neurological benefits:A study showed that long-term application of Reishi promoted deep, slow-wave sleep in insomniacs.Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom has also been used to treat neurasthenia, a condition common in chronic fatigue syndrome.

 Elevate the spirit:Ganoderma lucidum or Reishi Mushroom also has non-material benefits. Beinfield explains, "Reishi is said to elevate the spirit; it's a mood-elevating substance." Traditionally, reishi is believed to help transform the individual into a more spiritual being. Just as mushrooms transform decayed material on the ground into life-giving nourishment, reishi converts metabolic and psychic waster (hostility and other negative feelings), thereby raising the spirit and unshackling the mind. Individuals can consume reishi every day to support immune function, peace of mind, and physical vigor. Reishi is available in syrups, soups, teas, tinctures, tablets, and by injection. Form and dosage should be decided with the help of a healthcare professional.
 


 Ling Zhi or Reishi Mushroom:the most mysterious

 Of all the Fu Zheng herbs, Ling Zhi or Reishi Mushroom is the most mysterious of all. Not only due to it's legendary qualities but also very much due to it's simple ability to calm the human mind and lend some clarity in an otherwise muddled existence. Practitioners are especially outspoken about Reishi. The early Chinese medical texts speak with genuine reverence about Reishi and it's powers to heal while the Taoists used it to lighten their selves and to become "capable of spiritual transcendence". This reference to Reishi is not by any means cultural. Although it has been known as the mushroom of spiritual potency in Asia, it has rapidly garnered a large following in the West amongst yoga, Tai Chi and meditation students.

 The first textual reports of Reishi record it as a "Shaman's Mushroom" or "Shaman's Ch'i". In fact it was originally called "Chih Zhi" or "Red Ch'i" (Chih=red, Ch'i=energy) and the red variety remains the most sought after for these reasons. But it is the long chain polysaccharides that have attracted so much research in China, and now the United States. These immunmodulators increase RNA and DNA in the bone marrow, increases interferon production, disrupting viral diseases and "smartening up" up the T-cells and expanding their "memory".A study in 1982 showed 100% of test mice had complete regression in induced tumors. One of the constituents of Reishi which was studied was Beta-D-Glucan which holds the cell walls of grains intact.


 Triterpenes are another aspect of Reishi which has researchers scrambling. Shown to be the chief agent in Reishi responsible for lowering blood pressure and blood lipids, triterpenes are found in the fatty acid form as "lucidenic" and "ganoderic" acids. Ginseng also contains a similar compliment of these sterols and there is much speculation that these may be one of the crucial commonalties in longevity herbs.Reishi and Ginseng also share the adaptogenic effect and protect against biological, emotional and environmental stresses. Reishi contains 112 known triterpenes which may be the cause of it's anti-hypertensive action. These triterpenes inhibit ACE, an enzyme (angiotensin converting enzyme) which many drugs attempt to control (with side effects). Reishi alleviates allergies, oxygenates the blood, relieves pain, reverses liver disease and is one of the most potent natural mood elevators known to man.

 To further mystify your brain into believing that the FDA has not yet graduated from kindergarten: the Chinese Chow Dynasty used Reishi mushrooms. This means that people knew about the healing properties of Reishi mushrooms over three thousand years ago.

 The compounds found in Reishi mushrooms have been classified as Host Defense Potentiators (HDP). These enhance the abilities of our immune system to protect itself. These disease-inhibiting compounds include Hemicellulose (AHCC), polysaccharides, polysaccharide-peptides, nucleo-sides, triterpeniods, complex starches, and other metabolites. In combination they strengthen the immune system, aid in neuron transmission, metabolism, hormonal balance, and the transport of nutrients and oxygen.


 I strongly advocate the consumption of natural, unadulterated, non-processed, authentic Reishi mushrooms. Purchase them in bulk, along with a seriously sharp knife for these little guys are very tough. In order to cut one into little pieces, you first must work yourself into a murderous frenzy. Make believe you're an ex-football player and commence to slay the little fungi.

Cosmetic Uses of Ganoderma lucidum

Some glossary noted Ganoderma lucidum extract showing to be effective when taken orally as possibly having antitumor, immune modulating, anticoagulant, cholesterol lowering, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.However, there is no research showing it to be effective when used topically on skin though it does have antioxidant properties.

 Beautification of the skin:Chinese women take Reishi for beautification of the skin. The results are probably due to the mushroom's hormone-potentiating effects. In recent years,scientific investigations show interests for the cosmetic application of this herb,some finds identified this mushroom may show inhibitory effect on tyrosinase activity,tyrosinase inhibitors are effective components of skin-lightening compounds and other cosmetics and could be very effective in facial masks.For the background of these findings,it briefed as below:

 A related cosmetic test processed by Dr. Thomas J. Lie(University of Washington, Seattle, USA) proposed its findings under a title "Effects on Tyrosinase Activity by the Extracts of Ganoderma lucidum and Related Mushrooms" published at Mycopathologia (Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2008),that among 4 different mushrooms named Ganoderma lucidum, Antrodia camphorata (Antrodia cinnamomea), Agaricus brasiliensis (Agaricus blazei Murill), and Cordyceps militaris.For the processing:"The mycelia were then filtered using Whatman Grade No. 1 filter paper (VWR International, West Chester, PA, USA), lyophilized, and powered before use. Dried mycelium powder (5 g) was extracted first with 70% (v/v) ethanol, 50% (v/v) ethanol, and distilled water at room temperature for 3 days, respectively. Extracts were filtrated, pooled, and the water allowed evaporating completely in a rota vapor at mild temperature (40 Deg C). The dry residues were finally dissolved in distilled water into different concentrations for further experiments."

 The test result shows that "among the tested mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum, Antrodia camphorata, Agaricus brasiliensis, and Cordyceps militaris), G. lucidum exhibited significant inhibition of tyrosinase activity (IC50 value 0.32 mg/ml), compared to those prepared from other Basidiomycetes. Tyrosinase inhibitors are effective components of skin-lightening compounds and other cosmetics; currently many of the facial mask cosmetics in the market contain Ganoderma extracts in their ingredients. The finding that mushroom extracts contain tyrosinase activity inhibition will contribute to better understanding of how their ‘healing’ properties in various Chinese traditional herbal on skin care products."

   For more detailed results,the detailed study declared "the inhibitory effects on tyrosinase activity by the extracts of the different mushrooms are shown in Figs. 1 and 2. Among the extracts examined, all extracts prepared from G. lucidum showed significant inhibition of tyrosinase activity (IC50 value was about 0.32 mg/ml). About 80% of tyrosinase activity was inhibited when the reaction mixture contained 1 mg/ml of the extract (Fig. 1), and still about 40% of inhibition effect was observed when the reaction mixture contained 0.1 mg/ml of the extract (Fig. 2). No difference in inhibitory effects on tyrosinase activity was observed by G. lucidum extracts obtained by the three different extraction methods (75%, 50% ethanol, and distilled water extraction). The only other extract that showed some inhibitory effect on tyrosinase activity was prepared from A. camphorata using 75% ethanol extraction (IC50 was about 1 mg/ml) (Fig. 1). Extracts of A. camphorata prepared by 50% extraction and distilled water, and all extracts prepared from A. brasiliensis and C. militaris showed less than 25% inhibition in the reaction mixtures contained 1 mg/ml extracts (Fig. 1). No significant inhibitory effect on tyrosinase activity was observed when 0.1 mg/ml extracts were used in the reaction mixture (Fig. 2)."

 The composition of fruiting body and/or mycelia of G. lucidum were very complicated, and it is still hard at present stage to identify which component(s) attribute to the inhibitory effect. The active constituents of G. lucidum on various diseases or health function can be very different such as polysaccharides and triterpenes. G. lucidum are widely used as health food additives and now appear in some cosmetic additives. Results of this study suggested another possible mechanism of this magic traditional Chinese medicinal herbal on its effectives of preventing aging and may also be useful as additives in skin care cosmetics.

   Psoriasis treatment:some patent(US Patent 20090060940) declared a way for treating psoriasis by first purifying Ganoderma lucidum extract into at least one fraction, then providing a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one of the Ganoderma lucidum fractions, and administering a therapeutically effective amount of the composition to a patient in need thereof. A method for alleviating symptoms of psoriasis is disclosed. The symptoms of psoriasis are alleviated by providing a pharmaceutical composition containing at least Ganoderma lucidum extract and administering an amount of the composition effective to increase at least one of an IL-10 and IL-1Ra expression, whereby the symptoms of psoriasis are ameliorated.Psoriasis is a chronic recurring skin disease, often characterized with red or silvery white scaly patches known as psoriatic plaques. These patches are due to inflammation and excessive skin production. Plaques commonly occur on the elbows and knees of patients, though any area of the body may be affected. Psoriasis can also cause inflammation of the joints, known as psoriatic arthritis. In the U.S. it is estimated that two percent of the population has psoriasis.Psoriasis is a skin disorder characterized by inflammation and abnormal epidermal proliferation. Several studies have observed that T lymphocytes and cytokines play an important role in the pathogenesis of this disease.

 For the processing method it mentioned,Such methods and procedures include both physical and chemical processes, including solvent utilization, distillation, percolation, and supercritical fluid extraction. The extract may be further filtered or concentrated as desired. In one example, a Ganoderma lucidum extract is obtained by treating homogenized Ganoderma lucidum plant tissue with 0.1 N NaOH for a predetermined time.For the applicable form of this supplement,the patent noted "The composition should be stable during manufacture and storage. The Ganoderma lucidum extract or specific constituents of the extract may be encapsulated, with agents such as aluminum monostearate, gelatin, and biodegradable and biocompatible polymers, to prevent undesired degradation in the body or by other ingredients in the composition. Anti-bacteria and anti-fungal agents such as benzyl alcohols, parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol, ascorbic acid, and thimerosal may also be included in the composition.",Except for the effective treatment use of Psoriasis.Other diseases and inflammatory symptoms associated with decreased IL-10 and/or IL-1Ra expression may also be treated with the composition containing Ganoderma lucidum extract. Examples include but are not limited to arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, multiple sclerosis and inflammation due to transplantation or viral infections.

 For the safety of this herb,in the Chem IUPAC definition,Ganoderma Lucidum Extract is an extract of the caps and stalks of the Mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum, Polyporaceae.A latest update on 2009 Feb 24 of the EU application of Restriction noted its "no restriction",the function of this herb Ganoderma Lucidum Extract is classified as for purpose of "Skin Protecting",identified CAS numbered:223751-82-4.

Reference:

• 1.Reishi mushroom Ganoderma lucidum,Marvelous Lucky Fungus from Orient World.

This article written and edited via herbalist of MDidea Extracts Professional. They run a range of online descriptions about this herb,including general information related and summarized updating discoveries from findings of professional scientisits this field related.Describe style aimed to form a useful detecting literature space where the intertwined threshold and related questions raise out and visualize themselves.

♣ last edit date:16th,Dec.2010.