Lingzhi (Reishi, 灵芝, Ganoderma lucidum) is a woody mushroom used in traditional Chinese medicine as an anti-aging remedy to promote long life. It has been used for thousands of years in China and East Asia.
Today, the most widely researched topic on lingzhi is its anti-cancer effects. The Japanese government officially lists reishi mushrooms as a cancer treatment.
Scientists isolated polysaccharides, terpenes, and other bioactive compounds from lingzhi. They believe that lingzhi may possess anti-tumor, immunomodulatory and immunotherapeutic activities. Laboratory studies have shown that the fungal extracts has anti-neoplastic effects, and the isolated compounds fight against some types of cancer, including epithelial ovarian cancer. Lingzhi has been reported to prevent cancer metastasis in an animal study. Although, the mechanisms why lingzhi may have anti-tumor and anti-cancer effects are unknown. Scientists believe that they may target different stages of cancer development: inhibition of angiogenesis mediated by cytokines, cytoxicity, inhibiting migration of the cancer cells and metastasis, and inducing and enhancing apoptosis of tumor cells.
Studies also found that reishi inhibits platelet aggregation, and lowers blood pressure (via inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme), cholesterol, and blood sugar. Lingzhi also contains some compounds that have some protective effects against liver injury by viruses and other toxic agents, and may be beneficial to treat liver diseases
Today, lingzhi (reishi) is sold in forms of extracts, capsules, tablets and teas in health food supplement market. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your doctor before taking reishi to help treat your health problems.
Please note, if you have cancer or other severe disease, you should consult with your doctor before taking any remedies.
For more information about natural remedies for cancer, go to Natural Remedies Center: http://www.naturalremediescenter.com/treat/cancer/
