More
commonly known as reishi, ganoderma is a hard, bitter mushroom used to promote
health and longevity in traditional Chinese medicine. Proponents claim that
ganoderma can relieve fatigue, keep cholesterol in check, curb high blood
pressure, tame inflammation, build stamina, and support the immune system.
An
increasingly popular natural remedy, ganoderma is only used as a medicinal
mushroom and isn't recommended for cooking.
Ganoderma
Research
Ganoderma
shows promise in reducing cholesterol levels and easing allergy-related
inflammation of the airways, according to preliminary evidence from
animal-based studies. Here's a look at more of the science behind ganoderma's
health-enhancing effects.
1) Cancer
and the Immune System
Often used
as an immune stimulant by people with cancer (as well as HIV), ganoderma has
been shown to strengthen immunity as well as combat cancer-cell proliferation.
In a 2003 study of 34 people with advanced-stage cancer, for instance, taking
ganoderma in supplement form three times daily for 12 weeks led to a
significant increase in T-cells (known to play a central role in immune
defense).
Lab tests
on breast cancer cells, meanwhile, found that combining extracts of ganoderma
and green tea heightened the mushroom's ability to slow cancer-cell growth.
2)
Antioxidant Benefits
Several
small studies have suggested that regular use of ganoderma supplements may
increase your levels of antioxidants, compounds thought to protect against
disease and aging.
3) Relief
of Urinary Tract Symptoms
In a 2008
study of 88 men with urinary tract symptoms, researchers found that ganoderma
was significantly superior to placebo in providing symptom relief.
