Reishi: (Ganoderma lucidum)

*immune system optimizer
*adaptogenic


Reishi is a popular Chinese mushroom with an impressive array of reputed health, including antioxidant properties. Also known as Gandoderma or Lingzhi.
In the Chinese language Ling = spirit and zhi = plant/mushroom of longevity.
So Lingzhi = spiritual mushroom of longevity.
The poysaccharies content of reishi strengthening the body’s overall immune functioning while simultaneously protect against cancer cells, and other microbial such as viruses, bacteria and yeast. Often used as an immune stimulant by people with cancer, as well as HIV The ganoderic contained in Reishi aid in allergies and auto-immune disorders. Ganoderic acids inhibit histamine release, improve oxygen utilization and improve liver function. The beta-1,3-glucan in reishihave been shown to stabilize blood sugar levels. Some triterpenes from Ganoderma lucidum [ganoderic acid C and derivatives] are able to inhibit the biosynthesis of cholesterol. Reishi has a unique ability to calm and support nerve function and therefore it use for chronic stress, anxiety, or insomnia (Hobbs C. 1995).
There reviews that describe pharmacological active compounds from mushrooms. Compounds and complex substances with antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumor, antiallergic, immunomodulating, anti-inflammatory, antiatherogenic, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective and central activities are covered, focusing on the review of recent literature.


Ganoderma: a therapeutic fungal biofactor.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16905165

Ganoderma and its pharmaceutically active compounds
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17875480

Ganoderma: a potent pharmacological macrofungus
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19939212


















This is a wonderful book about Reishi.