Many Uses of Ganoderma Extract |
| Written by Dr. Markho Rafael | |
| Tuesday, 11 August 2009 | |
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Revered in the Orient for two millennia as the "Mushroom of Immortality," Ganoderma has been demonstrated to have a therapeutic effect on 16 out of 17 areas of health in Paul Stamets' chart on medicinal mushrooms. That's more than any other mushroom species. Buddhists call it Ling Chi, and many an artistic rendition of this beautiful and therapeutic mushroom can be found in Buddhist shrines and temples. In Tibet, it has long been used to cope with high-altitude sickness and infections. [25] Something you'd probably never hear an ancient healer refer to is that Ganoderma extract is exceptionally high in anti-oxidants. And perhaps the resulting protection from free radical damage may have something to do with its acclaimed anti-aging effect. [34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41] Another possible contributing factor to the acclaimed anti-aging properties of Ganoderma may be its anti-inflammatory compounds known as triterpenoids. [42, 43, 44, 45] (Alcohol extracted.) After all, inflammation is involved in many of our most common ailments, from bronchitis, asthma and atherosclerosis [46], to allergies, arthritis [47, 48, 49, 50, 51] and the common cold. The triterpenoids of Ganoderma extract have even tested positive with inflammatory conditions of the prostate [53] and brain. [52] But although Ganoderma extract can help slow an overactive immune response in cases of inflammation, it has simultaneously been shown to strengthen a sluggish immune system. [48, 54, 55]. Its therefore referred to as an immune system "adaptagen." One study even showed that it had an inhibitory effect on the replication of HIV. [56] Another rejuvenating (anti-aging) effect of Ganoderma extract relates to its effect on the alveoli of the lungs and increased oxygen absorption, [57] as well as increased coronary flow and decreased blood pressure, [58] both of which contribute to an energizing and vitalizing effect. For this reason, two studies have shown promise in the use of Ganoderma with chronic fatigue. [59, 60] Ganoderma extract also contains anti-cancer compounds. Research has specifically shown results with tumors of the liver, lungs, prostate, cervix, blood and bone. [61, 62, 63, 64, 65] It appears that this anti-tumor effect may be secondary to the general immune stimulating properties of Ganoderma. [66, 67] A couple of Chinese research articles have reported positive results from the use of Ganoderma extract on supporting the liver in cases of chronic hepatitis [68] as well as post-hepatic cirrhosis [69]. One study showed it to have a restorative effect on certain functions of the spleen. [34] A variety of skin disorders have been treated with powdered Ganoderma, [70] including rashes from poison ivy and oak, although this claim still may need to be conclusively verified. [25] In his book Mycelium Running, medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets also lists the following areas where research has shown Ganoderma extract to have a beneficial effect: Candida; Diabetes (Blood Sugar); Cardiovascular Health; Cholesterol; Kidney Health; Respiratory Conditions; Nerve Tonic; Stress. [134] Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any herb (or mushroom) except as advised by a licensed medical practitioner. Credits: Thank you, Paul Stamets, for research references.
The Article Author:
Dr. Markho Rafael has worked in the natural
health field since finishing Chiropractic College in 1996. His current
focus is medicinal mushrooms, including Ganoderma lucidum extract, in partnership with the business Cordyceps Reishi Extracts, LLC. For research references to this article, please go to the Extract of Ganoderma page and click on any number indicating a reference.
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