Lucid ganoderma tea Ling zhi slice

Description

Lingzhi is a polypore mushroom that is soft (when fresh), corky, and flat, with a conspicuous red-varnished, kidney-shaped

cap and, depending on specimen age, white to dull brown pores underneath.It lacks gills on its underside and releases its

spores through fine pores, leading to its morphological classification as a polypore

Current usage
Lingzhi can be found for sale in many Asian markets as well as Western health shops. Extracts of 'lingzhi,' which may also be

called 'reishi' are also available. In general, a hot water extract is best at concentrating the polysaccharides in lingzhi

and alcohol extracts are best at concentrating the triterpenoids in lingzhi but an extract can also be made with a blend of

both extracts

Medicinal uses
Lingzhi may possess some anti-tumor, immunomodulatory and immunotherapeutic activities, supported by some studies on

polysaccharides, terpenes, and other bioactive compounds isolated from fruiting bodies and mycelia of this fungus (reviewed

by R. R. Paterson). However, the efficacy of these compounds in the treatment of cancer has not yet been shown in clinical

trials. Moreover, as with any herb, variation between preparations and potential negative side effects cannot be ruled out.

It is understood as adaptogenic, anti-allergenic and anti-hypertensive due to the presence of triterpenes. Apart from these

properties, lingzhi has been found to be anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, antidiabetic, anti-

hypotensive, and protective of the liver. It has also been found to inhibit platelet aggregation, and to lower blood

pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.

Because of these properties, lingzhi has been regarded as blood pressure stabilizer, antioxidant, analgesic, a kidney and

nerve tonic. It has been used in bronchitis prevention and in cardiovascular treatment, and in the treatment of high

triglycerides, high blood pressure, hepatitis, allergies, chemotherapy support, HIV support, and even for fatigue and

altitude sickness.

Some peer-reviewed studies indicate that ganoderic acid has some protective effects against liver injury by viruses and other

toxic agents in mice, suggesting a potential benefit of this compound in the treatment of liver diseases in humans.

Although the experiences in fighting cancer are more inconsistent, the extract has been claimed to be effective in regressing

tumors. The results depend on the type of cancer and the severity of the condition. It is usually recommended that it be used

in combination with other prescribed medical treatments and as part of a fu zheng formula with a variety of supporting herbs.

The Ganoderma extract has been employed to help substantially reduce or eliminate the side-effects of radio- and

chemotherapies if it is taken before, during and after the treatments. It has been found clinically to reduce side-effects

like hair loss, nausea, vomiting, stomatitis, sore throat, loss of appetite and insomnia.