Second Edition MYSTICAL REMEDY OF THE ANCIENTS Lingzi – Ganoderma Lucidum
Dr. Clarence S Stanislaus MBBS (Mysore) Contents
1 Foreword 2 Introduction 1 3 Chapter 1 - Ling Zhi - Premier Medicine of China 3 4 Chapter 2 - Ling Zhi in Traditional Medicine 7 5 Chapter 3 - Pharmaceutical Properties of Ling Zhi 11 6 Chapter 4 - Clinical Effects of Ling Zhi 24 7 Chapter 5 - Current Clinical Applications of Ganoderma Lucidum 35 8 Chapter 6 - Notes on The Medicinal Benefits of Ganoderma Lucidum's Mycelium 39 9 Chapter 7 - Availability of Ling Zhi 44 10 References 54 Fungi are familiar to mankind literature, accompanied by throughout the world. Historical such expressions as ‘the ten thousand references occur from east to the year mushroom’, ‘the herb of west in the folklore of many spiritual potency’, ‘the miraculous countries. In ancient Egypt, the chi’, and ‘the holy mushroom’. fermentation of yeast was considered a gift of the God Osiris. The Romans The publication of ‘Ganoderma believed that the appearance of Lucidum; Ling Zhi: Mystical remedy of mushrooms and truffles were caused the ancients’ by Dr. Clarence could by lightning bolts hurled down to the not have come at a more opportune earth by Jupiter. Mushrooms have also time. Man is slowly slipping away into played a significant role in the an unhealthy and stressful lifestyle, religion and mythology of Central where diseases like high blood America, as evident by the use of the pressure, diabetes and cancer have hallucinogenic Psilocybe cubensis in become the norm. Herbal remedies the religious rites in parts of Mexico. may just provide an answer.
In the orient, mushrooms have been This book is an extraordinary widely used for over 2,000 years. One compilation of many facts written in that was held with particular easy to understand language for the reverence was known as a miraculous ordinary man. Dr. Clarence has cure for cancer, heart disease, liver skilfully demonstrated the efficacy of problems and as an anti-allergic and a Ling Zhi in treating a variety of nerve tonic. Several names e.g. Ling ailments. Although targeted at the lay Zhi, Reishi, Ling Chih, Ch’i chi have public, his book offers a lot of been used to describe this same scientific information on this superb fungus, botanically known as herb of great antiquity. Ganoderma lucidum. Its powerful properties have long been As a professional mycologist, I documented in welcome this book and recommend it to those who believe in natural remedies of human ailments. It is my wish that the book be received enthusiastically and be beneficial toward guiding man back to a natural and healthier lifestyle.
Prof. R G Kapooria Dept. of Biological Sciences University of Zambia Lusaka, Zambia May 10, 1999 Disclaimer Despite all the possible health benefits that can be obtained from Ganoderma Lucidum (Ling Zhi), it is not intended to replace the recommendations of a medical doctor. Patients with specific problems should always consult their physician.
Copyright©1999 by Dr. Clarence S Stanislaus. All rights reserved. Neither this book nor any of its contents may be translated or reproduced in any form, including by electronic or digital means, without prior written permission from the author.
ISBN: 983-40127-0-5
Design & Layout By: Mantra Communication
Printed in SerembanJanuary 2002 IntroductionIntroduction
Its earliest evidence of use dates from as far back as 3500BC, in the cave art of Northern Algeria.
In Japan, street vendors on pushcarts sell medicinal mushrooms to ordinary people who consume these mushrooms to maintain health and promote longevity. Europeans have long enjoyed the gastronomic value of wild mushrooms. A number of mushrooms have also played a central role in the mythology and traditional medicinal practices of Nigeria. High in the Hima- layas, sherpas use them to counter the effects of the high altitude. As was the case with the ancient Maya, who also used mushrooms to combat disease. And for over Mushrooms, are just one of 3,000 years, the Chinese the many fungi that occupy have revered and used the plant kingdom. These mushrooms for its health “fleshy fungi” have for eons giving properties. P1 been locked in a realm of myth and legend. From “It is recorded that in ancient Greece to China, ancient China the discovery mushrooms have a long of Lingzhi with 9 caps within history as both, a food and a the courtyard of the palace magical remedy for ailments. was taken as a good omen and was followed by a grand other fungi as celebration and much a potential rejoicing.” (Wesson R G 1976: source of Soma: Divine Mushroom of antibiotics. Immortality.) Mushrooms However, it is only since have long the discovery of penicillin been known to possess medicinal value, this has been bourne out by thousands of years of use and have also been recorded in many ancient texts. Generally devoid of side effects, a quality that makes it an ideal source in the search for new medicines.
from the mould penicillium by Alexander Fleming, that western medicine began researching mushrooms and CHAPTER 1 Lingzhi - PremierLingzhi - Premier Medicine of ChinaMedicine of China
The use of fungi in Traditional Subsequent authors, combined Chinese Medicine (TCM) has both works into one that has been extensively documented in come to be known as the its classic literature. The two “Herbal Classic”. Latest earliest great classics of Chinese research has suggested that herbal medicine, the Shen Nung these works were complied Pen Ta’ao (or Pen King) and the from earlier manuscripts.
The Pen King mentions a number of medicinal mush- rooms, with specific reverence given to Lingzhi. A name which first appears in the 11th century, the word “Ling” probably meaning “divine” or
Lingzhi growing on a coconut palm (Malaysia) P3 Ming I Pie Lu (or Pie Lu) elaborate on the use of medicinal fungi in China. Pie Lu which is thought to be a supplement to the Pen King, was Lingzhi growning on a gingko written between 221 – 264 AD. biloba tree (China) “divine herb” and “Zhi” most likely an alternative for “Chi”, which means “life force”.
In addition, the use of medicinal mushrooms outside the main classics is documented as early as 26 BC. A number of ancient Long-stem Lingzhi found Taoist works also mention growing wild in the “Chi” as a plant that brings jungle (Malaysia) happiness and immortality. In both the Pen king and Pie Lu the defined by their different name “Chi” is applied to various colours were talked about in mushrooms. Of these, six great detail. A number of
Lingzhi growing from a buried log (Vietnam) — Courtesy of Co Due Trong authorities conclude that this reference to six different “Chi” is in fact different forms of Lingzhi.
The ancient Chinese practiced a means of classifying Lingzhi by their different
Top and bottom view of Lingzhi found growing on a tamarind tree (India) In its more mature form, Lingzhi is often shinny as if a lacquered object, hence its name Ganoderma lucidum; from the Greek words Ganos or “brightness”, Derm or “skin” and Lucidius or “shinning”. It is a burnt orange to dark red Lingzhi growing on a fallen mushroom with either a long or log (Vietnam) — Courtesy of short stem and a lotus pad shaped Due Trong cap. A capless, ‘antler’ form was colours, attributing each to highly valued and rare in ancient medicinal properties for specific times. Today it is possible to organ systems. Not to be stimulate these ‘antler’ outdone, recent commercial formations by growing the preparations have classified Ganoderma in a controlled Lingzhi according to their environment, varying the amount shape. Taking these two pers- of CO2 in the growing area. pectives into mind would mean that each colour or shape had The most famous of materia specific chemical properties medica of China is the which act on specific systems. monumental Pen Ts’ao Kang Mu
Recent DNA studies have found this to be incorrect. They have proved that although different in colour and shape, all these variations of Lingzhi have identical DNA configurations and belong to the same species. It has been established that the taste, shape and properties of Lingzhi is determined by its Ganoderma growing on an P5 environment; whether under arecanut stump (Pune, India) controlled cultivation or har- — Courtesy of Dr. Prakash vested from the wild, and stages Joglekar of its growth. This is found to be true even when tissue published by Li Shih-Chen in culture is used in cultivation. 1578. This medical text, or Great Pharmacopoeia describes top in the Chinese materia a number of medicinal mush- medica. One is ginseng and the rooms; among them are Lingzhi other, Lingzhi. Lingzhi is the or Ganoderma lucidum, first herb the physicians wrote Tremella fuciformis and about. Their first six medical Cordyceps. Lingzhi along with monographs are on Lingzhi. In ginseng and astragalus are time, Lingzhi also known as stated to be the highest class Reishi in Japan outpaced the of medicines. Pen Ts’ao reputation of ginseng and was considers this group of held in high esteem as the most polypores to possess superior valuable and principal herb of healing properties than even the orient. In fact, the Chinese the more famous ginseng. Code of Ethics has had Lingzhi recorded as a health food from Of the outstanding medi- as early as 300AD. cines of China, two are ranked
Mutations of Lingzhi caused by differences of cultivation and environmental conditions. These have often been mistaken for new species. CHAPTER 2 Lingzhi Lingzhi inin Traditional MedicineTraditional Medicine
Lingzhi has long been woven shrouded in secrecy and mys- into the fabric of Chinese ticism by Taoist priests who culture, tradition and medicine. consider it the very elixir of life, The Great Pharmacopoeia guarding the locations where it provides a comprehensive was to be found and its use for listing of the uses of Lingzhi. Li a select few. Through time Shih-Chen even notes its use for Lingzhi came to symbolize the treatment of deafness. The spirituality and good fortune. mushroom was also widely used Lingzhi motifs could be found as to enhance stamina and energy, decorations on panels, screens and to provide relief for in palaces of the time. It was hemorrhoids. Li reported that held in such high esteem that it these uses had remained the became a part of the religious same for at least 2,000 years. practices, finding its way to Some of these uses are shown places of worship, with its in the table below. appearance on religious statues. Unfortunately, Lingzhi Its healing and health giving remained among the more effects were considered to be obscure medicinal plants of a strictly spiritual nature.
Traditional Usage of Lingzhi • enhance stamina; • increase energy; • increase intellectual capacity; • pain and tightness in chest; P7 • heart and chest ailments; • reduce forgetfulness; • relief for joint aches and pains; • relief for hemorrhoids; • treatment of deafness; This situation continued ganoderma, a group of until work in the late 1930s mushrooms of practically worldwide distribution with most species found in the tropics.
While the approach of traditional medicine took a wholistic approach to Used for decorative purpose (China) Lingzhi and it’s effects on the by Japanese botanists human body, modern established the true identity medicine ascribes it to the of Lingzhi as Ganoderma sum total effect of its lucidum, a species of individual chemical mushroom. The Japanese constituents on the human name, Reishi is a generic name for several or more species of these medicinal fungi of the genus
Lingzhi motif found on an ancient granite block (China) body. This difference stems of the late Prof. Hikino, who from the basic differences in analyzed Lingzhi for its active the philosophy. What modern ingredients. Modern medicine medicine explains as however has only been able transient side effects, would to explain the effects of in traditional medicine be Lingzhi by the actions of its said to be a cleansing or an adenosine, triterpenes and
Lingzhi motif found on antique chinese furniture opposition reaction of Lingzhi polysaccharide content, and aids the process of which have proven medicinal recovery. Traditional properties. It has frequently practitioners believe that been at a loss when these symptoms will cease explaining those cures P9 only when all toxins are attributed to Lingzhi that removed from the body. science has yet to successfully remedy. These differences in doctrines was only bridged Animal studies have through the pioneering work managed to reconfirm the effectiveness of some of Lingzhi’s traditional applications. Human studies on these effects are still lacking, but for now we have to examine anecdotal reports, before more complete studies are conducted on the mushroom’s effects on humans. Thus enabling us to have a clearer understanding of this Used as a decorative “mystical herb”, and a Ganoderma bonzai proper scientific explanation for its various actions and applications.
Held in the hands of the Goddess, signifying its reverance CHAPTER 3 PharmaceuticalPharmaceutical Properties of LingzhiProperties of Lingzhi
The rediscovery of Reishi in 2,000 biochemical and Japan, prompted medical pharmacological reports pub- practitioners and herbalists to lished on the medicinal pro- investigate extensively the perties of Ganoderma lucidum medical effects and applications and its active principals. These of Lingzhi in Korea, Japan and studies have identified the China. However, it was only effects of Lingzhi as mainly that during the last 20 years that of polysaccharides, triterpenes, Lingzhi has received the adenosine and essential fatty attention of pharmacologists and acids. The other ingredients are scientists. thought to complement the main active components, as shown in Currently there are more than the table below.
Principal Active Components of Ganoderma lucidum Source Active Grouping Action Ingredient mycelium cyclooctasulphur not known inhibits histamine release; mycelium beta-D glucans polysaccharide antitumor; immunostimulating; mycelium lingzhi-8 protein broad spectrum P11 antiallergic; immunomodulator; mycelium ganodosterone steroid anti-hepatotoxic; mycelium ganoderic acids R,S triterpene anti-hepatotoxic; mycelium ganoderic acids triterpene inhibits cholesterol synthesis; Principal Active Components of Ganoderma lucidum Source Active Grouping Action Ingredient mycelium ganodermic acid triterpene inhibits cholesterol synthesis; mycelium oleic acid unsaturated inhibits histamine fatty acid release; mycelium adenosine nucleotide inhibits platelet aggregation; muscle relaxant; vasodilator; fruit body GL-A polysaccharide antiaging; GL-B improved endurance; reduces fatigue; fruit body FA, Fl, Fl-1a polysaccharide antitumor; immunostimulating; fruit body D-6 polysaccharide enhances protein synthesis and nucleic acid metabolism; fruit body A, B, C-2, D polysaccharide inhibits histamine ganoderans release; fruit body ganoderic acids triterpene antihypertensive, B, D, F, H, K, S, Y ace-inhibiting; fruit body ganodermadiol triterpene antihypertensive, ace-inhibiting; fruit body ganoderic acid B triterpene inhibits cholesterol synthesis; fruit body adenosine nucleotide inhibits platelet aggregation; analgesic; muscle relaxant; vasodilator; From the tabulation above it Polysaccharides are large sugar becomes evident that both the molecules built from many mycelium and the extract of the smaller units of sugar molecules fruit body have active chemical that stimulate the immune components that when used system and interferon pro- together complement each duction. A number of studies other. The table identifies some since the 1950s have shown that of the known active components polysaccharides in medicinal of Ganoderma lucidum, however mushrooms (and in fact from there are still some components lichens, bacteria and even from that are yet to be identified. the cell wall of yeast) indeed have anti tumor and immune The main active ing-redients stimulating properties. Mush- which most of Lingzhi’s effects room polysaccharides were can be attributed to are:- shown to be active when the immune system was compro- mised, but had little effect in Polysaccharides normal cases especially when A significant finding of the immune system was at its laboratory and clinical studies on optimum levels. mushrooms is that a number of
CH OH CH OH 2 2 O O O O
OH OH O
OH OH CH OH OH CH OH 2 2 O O O O O O O
OH OH OH HO P13 OH OH OH Fig 1 - The chemical structure of polysaccharides its compounds stimulate immune The fruiting body and function and thereby suppresses mycelium are very rich in bio- tumor growth. One such active polysaccharides. These compound is polysaccharides. bio-active polysaccharides contain mostly Beta-D-glucans molecules activate our immune which stimulate surface system to respond, which in turn receptors. Our immune system activates immune effector cell has surface reactors that are responses including an activated with the release of increase in macrophage and interferon. The surface recep- killer T-cell activity. In Lingzhi, tors under stimulation produce more than 50 carcinostatic a number of anti- virus and antitumor chemicals; namely cytokines, lymphokines, tumor necrosis factor, and interferon. Interferon discovered in 1957 is a protein involved in our immune defense system. Interferon helps to block off viruses and bacteria from attacking healthy tissue. It has Japanese Ganoderma lucidum known as also been ass-ociated Reishi — Courtesy of Co Due Trong with anti cancer activation which will be polysaccharides have been discussed sub-sequently. isolated from the basidiocarps and mycelia of Ganoderma Our natural immune system lucidum indicating the potential includes macrophages, Natural immuno-enhancing capacity of Killer (NK) cells, helper T-cells the mushroom. and other defense mechanisms. Macrophages; macro meaning The immuno-modulation “big” and phage meaning “to effected by the polysaccharides eat”, are a type of white blood in Lingzhi enhances the immune cells that destroy pathogens system that is suppressed by such as bacteria, yeast cells, cancer and HIV. Contrary to this, virus infected cells etc. NK cells when over activated by auto are also white cells which when immune diseases like Systemic stimulated ward off viruses and Lupus Erythromatosis (SLE) and cancer cells. P olysaccharide Rheumatoid Arthritis, the immune system is down lement system. In addition, regulated by the polysac- polysaccharides influence the charides. This very powerful macrophages and helper T-cells immune modulation system and activates an alternate together with the very low levels pathway in the complement of toxicity throw light as to why system. Lingzhi consumed over long periods is being used effectively Water soluble polysac- in the treatment of auto immune charides as found in extracts of diseases, AIDS and patients ganoderma were found to have undergoing chemotherapy and an anti oxidant action. This radiotherapy. effect protects DNA against damage caused by radiation and A comparison of mush-rooms UV irridation. This effect also reveal that the polysac-charides merits further investigation into of Ganoderma lucidum are its potential use as an important better absorbed when given ingredient in the cosmetic orally. The required effective industry in topical moisturizer dosage was also found to be creams and also provides significantly lower. Natural protection against solar rad- polysaccharides have a better iation. absorption than commercially prepared Beta-glucans. Triterpenes Furthermore, the low Another set of active molecular weight polysac- components found in Ganoderma charides found in Lingzhi have lucidum are triterpenes. shown to have a marked anti Triterpenes are steroid-like viral activity, while its higher simple molecules and cause a molecular weight polysac- steroid-like action. They act on charides have a better anti the same sites as steroids and cancer effect. enhance the action of our body’s hormones. Polysaccharides also have an P15 indirect action on the immune Investigations have found that system by stimulating NK cell the mycelium of Lingzhi is rich activity releasing interferon, in triterpenes both which in turn stimulates more NK quantitatively and in terms of cell activity. The polysaccharides variety. It is now well established act on the C3 component and that Ganoderma lucidum thus activate the entire comp- contains rich amounts of triterpenes, but this is not so in quantity of triterpenes, indi- most of the other tree fungus. cated by a yellowish colouration Triterpenes are found in both the of its underside and the mycelium and fruiting body of bitterness of its taste. Of the 100 H Me Me Me (CH2)2CO2H C Me R Me H O O CO H 2 O Me H R3 Me
1 R Me R2 Me O R OH 1 Me H O R H Me GANODERIC ACIDS A RR1 = O R2 = OH Me Me R3 = H 1 LUCIDENIC ACIDS B R = OH R = H 1 2 3 A(I) R = H R = OH R R = O D(II) R = O R1 = O (KUBOTA - 1982) (NISHITOBA - 1985) Fig 2 & 3 - The free oxygen rich structure of triterpenes the Ganoderma lucidum. The or so known chemical comp- vast majority of triterpenoids ositions and molecular occur as fatty acids called configurations reported, some lucidenic and ganoderic acids. 20 odd bio-active triterpenes have been isolated in Gano- The quality of Ganoderma derma lucidum. lucidum can be ascessed by its
Strain of Ganoderma lucidum cultivated in Malaysia which has its surface covered in spores — Courtesy of John Kuan Lingzhi creates a feeling of cholesterol and helps keep it well being and increased within the normal range. These resistance to stress as with triterpenes have been found to steroids. Due to its similarity in have a liver protective action. action to naturally occurring By strengthening liver functions, hormones, it is often questioned the body’s toxins are effectively whether the multiple and varied eliminated resulting in better action of Lingzhi could be health and well being. attributed to the addition of corticosteroids to the formulations of Lingzhi. Adenosine However, it is more plausible Adenosine is a nucleotide that since triterpenes act on the found in the cells. It plays an same sites as steroids, less important role in muscle con- hormones are thus needed to traction and sugar metabolism. have the same effect. In a series of experiments, the late Professor Hikino showed The breakdown of mast cells that Ganoderma lucidum had a release histamine which cause calming and sedative effect. He allergic reactions. The later attributed this effect to triterpenes prevent the adenosine, confirmed by tests on breakdown of mast cells and thus laboratory animals. His inhibits the release of histamine. experiments showed and clari- This explains its anti allergic fied as to why Lingzhi was used properties. for centuries for its calming effects. Similar triterpene comp- ounds extracted from various Adenosine has a neuro- species of ginseng have rep- protective action on the brain. eatedly shown to improve Levels of adenosine increases oxygen utilization. Therefore it is likely that the triterpenoids in NH2 Lingzhi likewise enhance N N consumption of oxygen, esp- P17 ecially since its structure has the N available oxygen. N
HO O Triterpenes have an insulin Fig 4 - The like action and increases the chemical peripheral utilization of glucose. structure of They inhibit the synthesis of HO OH adenosine when there is an incidence of stroke, head injury, spinal cord injuries and dementia. Lingzhi when administered in cases of acute myocardial infarction (heart attacks) results in smaller infarction size and improved blood flow. It has now Partially become clear that the dusted to adenosine content acts show "shinny" as a coronary vaso- surface dilator. Modern studies have therefore confirmed and explained the 4,000 years of medicinal usage of Lingzhi for stimulation of heart and chronic heart diseases.
For adenosine to be effective, it must be of sufficient levels when it reaches the brain and Spore covered fast-growing hybrid of heart. Adenosine when Ganoderma lucidum developed by administered orally is Prof. Teow (Malaysia) rapidly metabolized which means that it does not allowing the adenosine to reach have sufficient levels to affect in sufficient levels to calm the the brain. Con-sequently, this brain. The raised levels of should also apply to Lingzhi. adenosine in turn stimulate the However, the studies of Professor entire adenosine receptors in Hikino showed otherwise. The the brain. It is important to note release or metabolism of that the activation of these adenosine in Lingzhi is somehow receptors are blocked by delayed or prolonged thus caffeine, theophylline and even coffee. The stimulant effect of in sterols, components in the cell the caffeine content in coffee is membranes of both plants and greatly reduced when Lingzhi is animals that act as hormone taken with coffee. precursors ie. building blocks of steroids. The sterols found are The inflammatory cells of our of the lanosterol and ergosterol body have specific surface types, the latter becoming receptors which respond to vitamin D2 when exposed to adenosine. Adenosine works on ultraviolet radiation. these receptors and increases the rate of wound healing. The Sterols are structurally similar strong effect to adenosine on the to sex hormones in animals and surface receptors explains the to bile acids. For example, application of Lingzhi for t h e cholesterol is an animal sterol treatment of autoimmune that through a natural process diseases like SLE (Systemic of conversion in the body Lupus Erythromatosis), Sclero- becomes bile acids and derma, and Rheumatoid steroid hormones. At an earlier arthritis. It appears that Lingzhi stage cholesterol forms through in these cases is providing the conversion of lanosterol. adequate levels of adenosine to However, while ganoderma promote healing. contains ganosterols, it does not increase bile acids due to the Adenosine besides being a actions of ganoderans and also powerful vasodilator, also because plant sterols are poorly prevents blood platelet absorbed. In fact, the sterols aggregation. Lingzhi in this lower cholesterol probably respect has been reported to be by competing with cholesterol effective in the treatment of for esterification with fatty ischemic heart (decreased flow acids. Sterols are the precursors of blood to the heart) and of steroids. vascular problems like Raynaud’s disease (spasm of the peripheral Pharmaceutical companies blood vessels), tinnitus (buzzing extract sitosterol to manu- P19 sound in the ear) and migraine. facture adrenal and steroidal hormones and hydrocortisone. Incidentally, beta-sitosterol, Sterols another of the major plant The same investigations on sterols, inhibits tumor growth triterpene also showed that the and formation. This sterol among mycelium of ganoderma is rich the many other tumor inhibitors found in plants may explain 640 the low incidence of colon cancers among vegetarians.
On going clinical studies 320 are now being conducted using sterols in Rheumatoid Arthritis, cervical leisions 160 induced by Human papilloma virus, Sinusitis, Hepatitis C and allergies. 80 INTERFERRON TITER INTERFERRON (u/m/) Germanium Germanium; a mineral found in small quantities in 40 some foods and in coal 48 101mg 1002mg 10003mg deposits, is rapidly DOSES (mg/kg) absorbed and eliminated GERMANIUM (ge-132) from the body. It is a Fig 5 - Interferron level in relation powerful immunomodulator to increasing dosages of Germanium which increases blood flow (Adapted from ASO & Associates) and oxygen supply to the different organs of the body Dr. Asai a pioneer of studies on and thus plays an intergral part germanium, identified traces of in the metabolism of the body. germanium in a wide spectrum of plants. He noted that shelf fungus – a species of Lingzhi contained high levels of Germanium.
The cap and the stipe of wild Taiwanese Ganoderma contains 13.25 parts per million (ppm) and 4.50 ppm of Germanium. The cultivated strains containes 6.20 ppm and 2.92 ppm of Indian strain of Ganoderma Germanium respectively. growing in the wild — Courtesy of The germanium content of Dr. Prakash Joglekar 30 samples of Ganoderma This response to germ-anium differs from person to person and whether it is found in the organic or inorganic state. Most of the studies of the effect of organic germanium focus on its effect on the immune system. Ganoderma Tsugae belongs to the However this does not Ganoderma complex and is closely explain the effects of related to Ganoderma lucidum in small doses of 1 – 2 mg medicinal properties per gram of extract as found in ganoderma . collected from Japan, Taiwan, Korea and China on woody This has to be viewed as substances ranged between 13 with other treatment systems parts per billion (ppb) and 57 such as Homeopathy. From a ppb. biochemical point of view germanium seems to be acting Germanium was first at the cellular level and also discovered by a German having effects on the GAP chemist Clemens W inkler. Junctional Intercellular Due to its inherent s e m i - conductor properties it first gained notice in the electronics industry.
This effect is also noted at the cellular level where small concentrates of P21 organic germanium effect the membrane potential and was found to stimulate the emission of electrical impulse. Ganoderma lucidum, Korean strain — Courtesy of Co Due Trong Communication. The GAP which equates to about 800 - Junctional Intercellular 1,000 micrograms per gram of Communication controls the extract or approximately 1mg Homeostatic and growth of of Germanium per gram of epithelial cells. By enhancing extract. the effect of the GAP Junctional Intercellular The required dosage of Comm-unication germanium Germanium is 50 -100mg in was found to prevent the simple cases, and 2000mg – spread of tumour from cell to 3000mg for cancer and serious cell. This effect could also illness. In ancient times explain the beneficial effect of Lingzhi was harvested from the very small doses of organic wild so it could have had high germanium as found in contents of Germanium. ganoderma lucidum. Whereas, Lingzhi is now cultivated in controlled Germanium is effective conditions so the quantity of when consumed in minute Germanium in Lingzhi really quantities. It is believed by depends on the medium in some that Germanium in which Lingzhi is cultivated. Lingzhi stimulates interferon Con-sequently, under present production and enhances the day methods of cultivation, oxygen carrying capacity. these quantities are not However, since Germanium, is possible to be extracted from only found in very minute Lingzhi found growing under quantities, it is difficult to natural conditions as found in attribute these effects to the the wild. Unless the product is Germanium in Lingzhi. It is prepared from concentrated more plausible that the extracts. Germanium complements the other active principles found Changes in the extra- in Ganoderma rather than cellular fluid concentration of acting as a main active Na+ , K + and Ca + cause principle or as the main imbalance in the membrane’s component effecting the potential causing physiological medical actions. effects. Could minute increase of organic Germanium also Most Lingzhi extracts have have a similar or as yet a germanium content of unknown effect or also between 800 - 1,000 ppm, increase electrical conduction? LingZhi–8 A recent finding is LingZhi- i. Protection of red blood 8. LingZhi-8 is an important cells from heat induced immuno-modulatory protein isolated from Ganoderma hemolysis. lucidum. First isolated in the ii. Inhibition of oedema and mycelium, it was also found in gastric secretion and substantial quantities in the granuloma formation. fruit body. LingZhi–8 prevents iii. Prevention of ulcer the production of systemic anaphylasis reaction when formation. administered repeatedly. It iv. Inhibition of cholesterol has been suggested that this synthesis and increases effect could be due to the cholesterol breakdown. reduction of antibody v. Speeds up cholesterol turn production. over into bile salts through decreasing Essential Fatty Acids cholesterolaemia and At the International increasing bile acids. Symposium on Ganoderma Research held in Beijing in October 1994, Vietnamese The question that comes to researchers presented a paper mind is whether we would get on the chemical constituents the same effect if we combine of Ganoderma. After solvent all the active ingredients that extraction of the fruit, the have so far been isolated from residue was examined and was Lingzhi and get the same effect found to constitute appro- as using mycelium and fruit body ximately 80% essential fatty powder. acids. Ten were identified and were found to be similar to This also raises the possibility that found in Aloe Vera. that we could actually be discarding a yet unknown key P23 The studies reported these active ingredient which could be following effects:- in the final residue after the extraction process. CHAPTER 4 Clinical Effects of LingzhiClinical Effects of Lingzhi
A number of laboratory and (Ganoderma lucidum). Some clinical studies were carried of these studies are out using water or solvent summarized in Table 3 and in extracts of Lingzhi the following pages. Laboratory/Clinical applications of Ganoderma Extracts Analgesic - relief of pain Anti allergic - relief from reactions (also stabilises the mast cellsmembrane) Anti inflammatory - relief pain and swelling Anti bacterial - against staphylocii, streptoccii and p. Pneumonia Anti oxidant - eliminates damaging oxygen metabolites Anti viral - direct and indirect action through ACE inhibitor action and cytokines Lowers blood pressure Enhances bone marrow - increase white Blood cells RBC platelet and Haemaglobulin Bronchitis - preventive effect / antimicrobal action Cardiotonic (heart) action - increases bloodflow and oxygen supply to heart Sedative and muscle relaxant - increase force of contraction of heart Enhances natural killer cell activity Expectorant and anti tussive properties Immuno-stimulation – Strengthens the body’s immune system Anti – HIV activity Improved adrenocortical function Increased production of Cytokines, Interleukin –1, Interleukin -2, tNF, interferron Liver-protective and detoxifying effects Protection against ionizing radiation Antiulcer activity – Wound healing
These numerous studies improvements in heart have shown that the various disease patients with respect applications of Ganoderma in to: oriental traditional medicine have a definite basis and thus • Palpitation - fast movement merit serious consideration. of heart; However, as a vast majority of • Dyspnoea - breathlessness; these reports are based on uncontrolled clinical or • Anginal - pain; and laboratory studies from China, • Pedal - swelling of the it will be judicious to examine Oedema legs. the therapeutic effects of Lingzhi from a clinical viewpoint. Lingzhi inhibits excessive platelet aggregation, Cardiovascular Diseases reinforces the outer P25 In China, treatment with membrane of the red Lingzhi was effective in 80 % corpuscle, stops thrombi of cases with myocardial formation (blood clots) and infarction and angina, while reduces infarction. However, being curative in 25 % of the the effects are varied, due to patients. Elsewhere, clinical the type of preparation used applications have seen and dosage as well. There is also an increase in on oxygen utilization – it is exercise tolerance with effective in reducing the Lingzhi, an effect that has reactions of cardiovascular found use in cases of ischemic blockage, including angina, heart disease and athletes heart irregularities, and loss endurance during short of memory. periods of severe exertion. Russian cardiologists who Typically, arteries can be have tested Ganoderma on blocked by spasms, blood heart disease patients have clots or atheromas. When this also found that the mushroom significantly inhibits formation of atherosclerotic plague. 100 In Malaysia, a 90 forty seven year old fisherman with sympthms of [Systolic Pressure] 80 ischaemic heart disease showed 90% stenosis of his left anterior descending 70 coronary artery on [Diastolic Pressure] his coronary angiogram. BLOOD PRESSURE (% Change) 60 After a period of two and a half years 0310 30 of consuming a herbal medication MYCELIUM EXTRACT (mg/kg) containing Fig 6 - The Dose-Response Relationship Ganoderma lucidum, of Mycelium Extract on Systolic and a repeat angiogram Diastolic Pressure showed spontaneous (Adapted from Lee & Rhee) regression of the lesion (Pillay, Abdul happens, oxygen availability Hamid 2000 Asian is greatly reduced. Since Cardiovascular and Thoracic Ganoderma has a clear action Annals). Cholesterol Disorders action. It is also thought that In a recent study on 10 Lingzhi through Interleukin-2 patients, significant drops in reduced blood pressure and cholesterol and triglyceride repaired major blood vessels. levels were observed after This is an exciting finding but two months of treatment. needs further evaluation. This is probably caused by the triterpenoids inhibitory action on cholesterol synthesis. Respiratory Disorders Treatment of respiratory ailments with Ganoderma is Blood Pressure centuries old. In more recent A similar study on patients times, elderly patients with with high blood pressure chronic bronchitis responded showed a marked improvement well to being treated with especially in diastolic Lingzhi. Asthmatics are pressure, when Lingzhi was reported to respond inside 14 used to complement days. In China, 60 – 91.6 % of conventional antihypertensive drugs. A 70% 140 improvement was also seen in cases 130 where Lingzhi was Respiratory Rate used as the only treatment, with no 120 side effects reported. 110
In a study done (% Change) Heart Rate at Oral Roberts 100 University, Rhee
and Lee showed RATE & RESPIRATORY RATE HEART 90 that the mycelium P27 extract of Lingzhi had an effect 03 10 30 similar to MYCELIUM EXTRACT (mg/kg) angiotensinogen converting enzyme Fig 7 - The Dose-Response Relationship of inhibitors and had Mycelium Extract on the heart and a hypotensive respiratory rate. over 2,000 chronic bronchitis not clear for decades. Recent patients responded when studies clarify that the fungus treated with Lingzhi. There enhances activity of Natural was a general increase in Killer (NK) cells and the haemoglobin A, the defi- induction of interferon. This ciency of which is linked to helps inhibit the metastasis of allergies, Systemic Lupus cancer cells. Eryth-romatosis (SLE) and Rheumatoid Arthritis. In a case of cancer of the testis, a patient who had It is known that Lingzhi undergone surgical removal of induces the regeneration of his cancer developed second- bronchial epithelium (lining aries in his lungs. After membrane) thus providing treatment with a regime of 8 relief in chronic bronchitis. grams of Lingzhi daily over a Patients with a long history of period of 3 months, his X-Rays asthma have shown dramatic showed a noticeable decrease improvements when ingesting in size of the metastatic Lingzhi in combination with lesions in his lungs. antibiotics. In relation to asthma, Lingzhi stabilizes the More recently, immune mast cells which prevents the therapy with Lingzhi release of histamine thus combined with chemotherapy preventing bronchospasm and has shown good results. In allergy response. This action Japan, Ganoderma is used as is similar to Ketotifen a pre- a primary treatment for scription drug. In addition to cancer as well as other this, asthmatics are aided by Autoimmune diseases. In fact, the anti microbial action and immune therapy with Lingzhi the increased oxygen carrying is a useful adjunct cancer capacity of Lingzhi. after treatment to surgery; chemotherapy or radiation. It also, helps reduce the Cancer severity of the side effects of The anti tumor activity of conventional cancer ganoderma was documented treatment. While it is not by Miyazaki & Nishijima in curative in advanced cases, 1983 and later by others. Lingzhi ingestion can make However, the mechanism for life a bit more bearable or at this therapeutic effect was least prolongs life. Liver Disorders Cosmetic Use Lingzhi is prescribed in A paste of Lingzhi was China for the treatment of found to be effective in acne; chronic hepatitis. In reducing post acne scarring treatments lasting 2 – 15 and pigmentation. Lingzhi in weeks, overall efficiency is a Vitamin E based cream, 70 – 98 %, with less liver reduced the size of keloids impairment. Two cases of and reduced itchiness and cirrhosis showed a rapid drop tenderness of the keloid. in the serum levels of SGPT Lingzhi is also used as an enzymes, parameters which ingredient in hair tonics, hair are used as markers of the restoration formulations and of liver’s function. In some skin whitening creams. recent studies on Hepatitis B, liver function tests Lingzhi has the potential showed a return to normal for use in topical cosmetic levels within a month of creams and to combat consuming Lingzhi. Eight wrinkles and signs of aging as cases of Hepatitis B were its extract was found to followed up over a period of protect DNA from strand 2 years, SGPT and SGOT breakage by Hydroxyl ions and rapidly returned to normal UV Radiation (Kim). within months. Conversion from antigen positive to antibody positive however High Altitude took more time. The effect Acclimatization of Ganoderma in Hepatitis B Clinical trials on 225 and on was potentiated when used another group of 244 patients in combination with other showed that the incidence of herbal preparations such as high altitude sickness was Milk Thistle or Phyllanthus greatly reduced. The niruri. mountains scaled were 4,000 – 5,000 meters high. The While clinical treatment success rate for both groups P29 of hepatitis with Ganoderma was over 97 %. At the has been encouraging. It is mushroom conference at believed that best results Beijing in 1991, it was are obtained in acute cases reported that 196 medal with less severe functional winning athletes in China, impairment. using a Lingzhi (80%) and Ginseng (20%) extract reduces the severity and the preparation had less fatigue long term complications of and improved sleep during Diabetes mellitus. games at cold high altitude conditions. Neurological / Neuromuscular Disorders Keshans Disease Mytonia dystrophy is a Keshans disease is a progressive muscular degene- cardiomyopathy (weakening rative disease, which cripples of the heart muscles) endemic the patient. Patients afflicted to parts of China. Some 100 with this disease were treated cases of latent and chronic Keshans disease 4 were treated with Lingzhi. Treatment over Cotton Ganoderma Membran three months showed an ) 3 effective rate for over 2 90% of the cases. Improvements in the 2 their ECG and cardiac symptoms and signs
WOUND AREA (cm WOUND 1 were noted.
0 Diabetes 0 2 4 6 8 101214161820 The Triterpenes in DAY Lingzhi have an insulin Fig 8 - Contraction curves of the like action and brings wound areas after treatment with down blood sugar, cotton gauze and Ganoderma increases peripheral Membrane utilization and increases (Adapted from Ching Hua Su, Shan- plasma insulin levels. Wei Juan, Chi-Sug Sun & I-Chi Tung) Lingzhi works indirectly through the immune cytokine Interleukin-I, which with Ganoderma injections at has a hypoglycaemic action the Beijing Friendship and also acts to normalize Hospital, China. Noticeable blood sugar levels. The improvements were observed combined effects of the on the majority of patients. various active ingredients, However, positive results were limited in the long term widespread use of Lingzhi in to the younger patients who cases of Myasthenia Gravis. A had milder cases with a relative of a patient suffering shorter history of the disease. Myasthenia Gravis wrongly Within 7 – 14 days benefits attributing his condition to were noted. Improved appetite, 1000 strength and 900 weight gain 800 was first 700 noted. Five 600 showed great 500 improvement 400 in terms of 300 muscle 200 strength, TITER (iu/mi) INTERFERRON 100 general 0 symptoms were either 0 0 0.4 4.0 20.0 40 200 400 partly or fully GANODERMA LUCIDUM relieved. Two CONCENTRATION (mg/kg) improved. Fig 9 - Effects of Ganoderma Lucidum on Three only Interferron induction showed slight (Adapted from S. S. Lee & Y. H. Wei) improvement. For three patients, the cancer recommended course disease appeared to stop of treatment with Lingzhi. progressing. After four years Dramatic improvement in the and three months of daily patient’s condition led the injections (400 mg/day), one Myasthenia Gravis Association male adolescent could do of Japan to recommend physical labour and two years Lingzhi to its members. later his muscle strength was P31 near normal. This verifies the Cerebrovascular accident centuries old treatment for or stroke is the disruption of generalized weakness and blood flow to the brain, lethargy. caused by a sudden rupture of blood vessels or a clot. The A chance discovery in severity of a stroke depends Japan, has lead to the on whether it is caused by a bleeding into the brain tissue fibroblast to the wound, it or an infarction of a part of also increases the blood flow the brain. In cases of an and oxygen supply to the infarction, it also depends on wound and has an antibiotic which part of the brain’s action. Way back in the blood supply is interrupted. 1960’s, a planter friend in Malaysia noted that some The first 24 to 48 hours is workers applied ground crucial, as it is not possible Ganoderma fruit, obtained to determine if its cause is from oil palm trees to their due to bleeding or blood clot. wounds to hasten healing. It is best to avoid using Lingzhi DNA studies have identified in this acute phase due to the this species to be Ganoderma vasodilator effect of its boninense, a related species adenosine content and also to Ganoderma lucidum and since Lingzhi prevents was found to have some of its platelet aggression it might curative effects. further aggravate the conditions, increasing the In more recent times, these bleeding in the brain. properties were verified on a patient with 10 years history After the acute phase is of chronic venous ulcer. over and the patient begins to Interestingly, the Knights shows signs of recovery, Templar used a mushroom Lingzhi can help by increasing (known as Surgeon’s mushroom) the blood flow and oxygen for the treatment of wounds supply to the brain thus in the Middle Ages. reducing the size of the infarcted area. This helps in reducing the severity of post Viral Fevers stroke Sequelae like paralysis, In some 50 cases over a speech impairment and period of 6 years, Lingzhi memory lapses. greatly reduced fever and other symptoms. In dengue fever, the duration and Ulcers severity of the fever was Lingzhi powder applied on reduced. Platelet count chronic venous ulcers increased. In the case of accelerated healing. This is herpes genitals and labialis, because the Chitin found in the size and severity of the the mushroom attracts lesion and pain were greatly reduced. It was also noted in Aging (Antioxidant Action) follow up cases that the Unused molecules of periods of remission were oxygen are released during greatly increased. tissue oxidation. These Concomitant topical use of unused molecules or free neem oil on the lesion of radicals are destructive to herpes genitals when the body. The recent combined with oral Lingzhi discovery of the relationship greatly reduced the pain and between free radicals and duration of the ulcers. This the aging process has was also observed when received the attention of acyclovir was combined with researchers. The free radical Lingzhi. Mumps too theory is that new radicals responded favorably; pain are formed during breathing and swelling were reduced. that have lost their original However with herpes zoster physiological function and and chickenpox, Lingzhi had instead have become to be started at the onset to destructive. When the ability get the best results. to scavenge free radicals decreases, disease sets in. The accumulation of free Antimicrobial radicals injures the tissues Applications and cells of the body and Lingzhi has been used for promotes aging. the treatment of sore throats. However, study is Anti oxidants released by needed to ascertain the Lingzhi neutralizes these free active principles in radicals. Lingzhi when Ganoderma that have ingested in large quantities antimicrobial activity. A enhances the natural suspension of Lingzhi powder scavenging ability of the when gargled, greatly blood significantly. reduced the pain and severity of throat infection. An important finding was P33 The antiinflammatory and in that Ganoderma must be some cases, the anti viral administered consistently for action of Lingzhi explains it to show a lasting effect. A this effect. When used in study in rabbits indicated this conjunction with antibiotics pharmaceutical effect, and have been found to have a further work is underway. potentiating effect. On a more personal note, increase in anti platelet while attending the 5th aggregation despite high International Mycological content of adenosine . Conference at the University of British Colombia, Studies of the acidic Vancouver in 1994, I protein bound polysaccharide developed an abscess. After a singly and in combination with 3 day regime of 1.8gm of anti-viral agents in cases of Lingzhi extract 3 times daily, Herpes simplex type 1 and I found that the abscess had type 2 showed a potent resolved. This personal synergestic effect and the experience had lead me to at potential to develop this that point consider the acidic protein bound possibility of an as yet polysaccharide as a new unidentified new class of topical anti-viral agent antibiotic. (OH K. W. Chungbak, National University). Since the release of the 1st This study validates the Edition of this book, studies clinical response that I had have proved that Ganoderma noted in my use of Ganoderma does have antibiotic actions. lucidum topically in cases of Latest research has isolated genital herpes reported in two new Hydroquinone the first edition. The antimicrobial Ganomycin A mechanism of action could be and Ganomycin B. Used in both a direct and indirect combination with antibiotics action by stimulating the Ganoderma had an additive immune system. effect with a large group of antibiotics.
Current Research Recent research has validated some of empirical clinical findings as reported in the 1st edition. Use of extracts of Ganoderma lucidum by hemophiliacs was viewed with concern. In vivo studies however showed no untoward CHAPTER 5 Current ClinicalCurrent Clinical Applications ofApplications of Ganoderma LucidumGanoderma Lucidum
Ganoderma is used in Japan hepatitis, mumps, testicular for the treatment of cancer and cancer and chronic venous ulcers Myasthenia Gravis. In China, it with success. Its use in cancer is widely used for the treatment makes the side effects of of viral hepatitis, chronic radiotherapy and chemotherapy bronchitis, loss of memory and less trau-matic. It has been senility. In the US, Ganoderma found to have a protective is used in the treatment of AIDS effects on bone marrow and AIDS related conditions. suppression brought on by Recent work by Professor B. K. radiotheraphy. Kim of Korea, confirmed the use of Lingzhi as a valuable adjunct Lingzhi also has been found to in the treatment of AIDS cases. have a protective effect on Ganoderma is used in Russian gastric mucosa when used in cosmonaut training to improve combination with anti- working capacity, particularly rheumatic medications, and under stress and for quick potentiates the effect of anti- restoration to normal physiology. biotics and antihypensive drugs.
In Malaysia, usage of Lingzhi Some of the current as an adjunct to conventional biomedical applications are medicine has been applied in the summarized below:- treatment of viral fevers, ulcers, P35
Application Reference Space Travel Conditioning 1 Improve work performance under Alexeev and Kupin 1993 stressful conditions Application Reference Space Travel Conditioning 2 Rapid return to normal Alexeev and Kupin 1993 physiological state
Adjunct therapy for cancer 1 Acute Myeloblastic Leukaemia Teow 1995 2 Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Teow 1995 3 Reduction of toxicity by chemotherapy Chen et al 1995 4 Accelerate post – surgery recovery Kupin 1992, Hseu 1993 5 Pain relief, reduce morphine dependence Kupin 1992, Liu et al. 1993 6 Remission relapses Chang 1994 7 Reduce size of metastasis Clarence, 1995 8 Prostate Cancer De La Taille, Hayek Burchardt M, Burchardt T and Kat 2, 2000
Cardiovascular ailments 1 Coronary dilation, increase coronary circulation Lee & Rhee 1990 2 Relief of oxygen deficit stress 3 Anti – hyperlipidemia 4 Anti – hypoglycemia 5 Anti – platelet aggregation 6 Increase oxygen carrying capacity of blood
Immune System Modulation 1 Viral fevers Chang 1995, Clarence 1997 2 Anti – inflammatory 3 Regulate Autoimmune disorders Application Reference Immune System Modulation 4 Anti – allergy/ anaphylactic shock
Antibiotics 1 Anti – microbial Activity Synergistic effect with antibiotics Yoon, Kim, Lee and Han, 1994 2 New Antibiotics Ganomycin A Mothang, Jansen, and B Julich and Lindeguist, 2000
Other Ailments 1 Testicular tumour - decrease in size of metastasis Clarence, 1998 2 Venous Ulcer Clarence, 1998 3 Raynaud’s Disease Clarence, 1998 4 Migraine Clarence, 1998 5 Post Herpetic Neuralgia Hijikata, Yamada, 1998 6 Anti Hiv Action El. Makkawy and Associates, 1998 7 Topical Anti Viral Action EO, Kim, Lee and Han, 2000 Herpes Simplex Type 1 Herpes Simplex Type 2 8 Hepatic and Renal Protectit Clarence, 1998 Effect
• Encouraging results in cases of Retinal Degeneration and Retinal Artery Occlusion, however further evaluation required.
Adverse Reactions However, Lingzhi absorbs P37 There have been no reported heavy metals like mercury, lead side effects when Lingzhi is and arsenic if it is not organically consumed over long periods. grown and under controlled Toxicity studies with doses as conditions. Consuming such high as 5 gm/kg of extract on contaminated material over mice have shown no side effects. prolonged periods would produce side effects. Lingzhi produces some minor intestinal (GI) upset, giddiness reactions. Most of the and a tingling sensation to name complaints are dryness of the a few. These are some of the mouth, transient skin rashes, typical reactions to Lingzhi and loose stools and dizziness. it appears that the adenosine in Dryness of mouth can be Lingzhi could be the primary overcome by taking fruit juices cause for these mild reactions. or electrolyte rich drinks. Transient aggravation of Polysaccharides are poorly asthma has been reported and absorbed from the gastro- this effect is also attributed to intestinal tract the action of the adenosine in Lingzhi. The intestinal bacteria in these reaction can be minimized by polysaccharides gives rise to taking Lingzhi with caffeine, stomach bloating, gas and theophylline or coffee. Caffeine diarrhoea. These effects are in this regard has been noted to more with higher dosages. block the adenosine receptors and thus reduce the adverse The large molecule effects attributed to adenosine. polysaccharides frequently cause transient loose stools, There are no ill effects in which stops when the dose is taking Lingzhi with pharma- reduced or stopped. Also high ceutical drugs. However, due to doses of Vitamin C, reduces the its inhibitory action on platelet size of the molecules, enhances aggregation, it would be its absorption and reduces the advisable to discontinue Ling-zhi incidence of diarrhoea. Loose for at least a week prior to any stools can also be prevented by major operation, or in cases of ingesting Lingzhi with large cerebrovascular bleeding. doses of Vitamin C, or taken Through its own inherent together with food. Alter- properties, Lingzhi has been natively, it can be taken in a known to occasionally cause suspension of water. transient mild allergic reactions which stops when consumption It is pertinent to note that the is discontinued or when an effects of adenosine when antihistamine is prescribed. administered as an IV solution There has been no record of it are flushing, shortness of breath, reacting with allopathic drugs. palpitation, headache, Gastro- CHAPTER 6 Notes on The MedicinalNotes on The Medicinal Benefits of GanodermaBenefits of Ganoderma Lucidum’s MyceliumLucidum’s Mycelium
The mycelium of Ganoderma were detected only in the fruit lucidum and the filtrate of deep body, whereas ganoderic acids culture have sterols, lactones, R, S, T were the major alkaloids, and polysac-charides. triterpenes of the mycelium. Adenine, adenosine, uracil, Significant amounts of uridine and d-mannitol have triterpenes can be obtained been isolated from the aqueous from both the fruit body and the extract of the mycelia of mycelial mat of static liquid Ganoderma capense. Of culture. particular interest is the fact The intensity of bitterness was determined as follows: lucidenic acid D > ganoderic acid C > lucidone A > lucidenic acid Aganoderic acid B > lucidenic acids B, C, E. The main Triterpene acids of the differentiated fruit body, such as ganoderic acids B and D have the 3B-hydroxyl group, whereas the main triterpene components in P39 Mycelium cultivated in a petri dish the cultured mycelia were from tissue culture 3a-hydroxytriterpene acids. Six new ganoderic that Ganoderma is a rich source acid derivatives, 0, P, Q, R, S of bitter triterpenes. and T, identified as major or Ganoderic acids, A, B and H minor triterpenoid components from the cultured mycelium of regeneration of the liver in G. lucidum have 3a-substitutes. partially hepatectomized mice, and increased the resistance of The polysaccharides of mice to the toxicity of Ganoderma comprise one of the indomethacin and digitoxin. It major sources of its also decreased accumulation of physiologically active comp- triglycerides. ounds and are extracted from the dried fruit body or separated from the broth of a shaking liquid Effect on Cardiac Function culture of mycelium. Concentrated Ganoderma lucidum culture extract has a An alcohol-ether soluble significant cardiotonic action on fraction from the mycelium of the isolated frog heart and the Ganoderma capense produced pentobarbital sodium-inhibited by submerged fermentation has heart. Intraperitoneal injection of the tincture of Ganoderma Lucidum increased contraction amplitude of the in situ rabbit heart, and the alcohol extract produced a cardiotonic effect and bradycardia in anesthetized Mycelium being transfered to an agar slant cats. The from petri dish polysaccharide fraction of the been shown to protect the liver aqueous solution of Ganoderma and enhance its detoxifying lucidum also has a significant function. The fraction lowered cardiotonic action. the serum transaminase levels induced by Carbontetrachloride Intravenous injection of the (CCl4), promoted the total alkaloids isolated from the extract of Ganoderma lucidum lower in Ganoderma-fed rats increased coronary flow and when compared with the lowered coronary resistance control. The lower level in the and myocardial oxygen test animals may be due to the consumption in cats and dogs, inhibition in cholesterol which suggest changes in the synthesis and/or cholesterol coronary hemodynamics and metabolism. myocardial metabolism.
Coronary dilation was pro- Respiratory System duced by the alcohol extract or Daily intragastric doses of a crude preparations of concentrated solution Ganoderma lucidum perfused containing the mycelium of into isolated guinea pig hearts. Ganoderma lucidum induced a In normal mice, the intragastric regeneration of the bronchial administration of the tincture epithelium in experimentally and the aqueous solution of induced chronic bronchitis. Ganoderma lucidum or the oral Intraperitoneal in-jection of an or intra-peritoneal alcohol extract of administration of the t h e mycelium or concentrated culture the aqueous extract extract markedly of Ganoderma lucidum increased tolerance to had significant hypobaric and antitussive and normobaric hypoxia. expectorant action on induced cough.
Hypocholesterolemic Activity Immunomodulatory Hypocholesterolemic Action constituents of A novel protein Ganoderma lucidum with mitogenic mycelium were identi- activity in vitro and P41 fied as ganodermic acids immunomodulating R, S, O, and Q together activity in vivo was with ganoderic acid X first isolated from and ganoderic acid Mf. the mycelial extract The total liver chole- Pure culture of Ganoderma sterol and triglyceride mycelium in lucidum. The protein levels were significantly agar slant LingZhi-8 (LZ8) was capable of hemagglutinating adenine, adenosine, uracil, sheep red blood cells but not uridine and d-mannitol. Animal human red blood cells. In vivo, experiments showed that uracil LZ-8 prevented the production and uridine were capable of of a systemic anaphylaxis lowering the elevated serum reaction in mice, when it w a s aldolase level of mice in administered repeatedly. Reduction in antibody production was the suggested mechanism.
Histamine-Release Inhibition Activity Cyclooctasulfur was extracted from the culture mycelium that a disulfide exchange reaction probably takes place in the cell mem- brane, decreasing the Ca uptake from the extracellular medium and inhibiting histamine release from the mast cells.
Muscular Dystrophy Five compounds isolated from water-soluble portion of the mycelium of Development of mycelium in Ganoderma capense were spawn culture used in the treatment of progressive muscular dystrophy, experimental myotonia. These atrophic myotonia and certain two compounds are the active other related diseases with principles of Ganoderma encouraging results. The capense used in the treatment compounds were identified as of muscular dystrophy. Antitumour Preparation stimulants. A fermentation Many patents for anti-tumour product containing D-glucan, products have been issued. An saponins and ergosterol derived anticarcinogen have been from the culture medium obtained from hot-water containing Ganoderma and extracts of Ganoderma boni- other nutrients has shown nense and Ganoderma tsugae significant therapeutic value for mycelia. The effective polysac- patients with liver failure. charides had molecular wt 1 x 105 and contained 63% glucose, 12% galactose, 13% mannose Hypocholesterolemic and 12% xylose. A B-glucan Preparations ganoderan from the The B-glucan an anti-tumour Ganoderma hyphae is not only agent also possesses anti-carcinogenic but also hypo- hypocholesteremic effects( and glycemic, and hypocholestere- has a liver function stimulant mic. effect.)
Liver Function Stimulant Ganodosterone and gano- deric acids isolated from Ganoderma lucidum have been used as liver function
P43 Close-up of spread of mycelium strands from tissue culture to wheat grain CHAPTER 7 Availability of LingzhiAvailability of Lingzhi
Artificial cultivation of Lingzhi rot. This method though tedious; was initially attempted by Dr. takes triple the incubation Henmi in 1937. Mass production period required for poly bags, however only commenced after ensures a constant supply for a the pioneering work done by Dr longer period. It also yields a Yokio Naoi in 1971, who higher germanium content then cultivated spawn using pots when using poly bags. There is containing sawdust. however a risk of contamination by E-coli and heavy metals. Controlled conditions and tissue culture helps to ensure a In Malaysia, poly bags are consistent production of a high preferred for the production of quality yield of Ganoderma lucidum. Some growers have over the years developed high quality strains by hybridization. Tissue culture specimens can be obtained from the mushroom. The pure culture from test-tube slant is inoculated into petri dishes, then into grains in bottles and finally into polyethylene Ganoderma lucidum farming in bags. rubber sawdust media (Malaysia) — Courtesy of John Kuan Inoculation of logs is the method favoured in Japan, large volumes of Lingzhi on a it closely mimics nature commercial scale. The poly bags producing almost normal looking are packed with enriched rubber Lingzhi. Deep in the rainforests sawdust and the opening closed of Malaysia, lingzhi is commonly with a piece of cotton wool. It is found at sites where hard wood then autoclaved for two hours, logs had fallen and started to destroying all contaminating spores and bacteria. On cooling, The harvested mushroom is the bags are innoculated by then dried using a hot air oven spawn. It takes 2 months from and is then stored under clean this to the colonization stage. dry conditions, ready for the final spore extraction process. The removal of the cotton wool around the 30 - 60 day period causes a steep fall in the Availability
C02 levels, thus stimulating the Prior to 1976, Lingzhi was only formation of its cap. By about available in the wild. The quality of the mushroom collected from the wild was not uniform and the quantity insufficient. In 1971, Yokio Naoi of the Dept of Agriculture, Kyoto University developed the technique to germinate spores and pioneered the cultivation of Lingzhi on a commercial scale. Today tissue culture is used to propagate
Ganoderma lucidum cultivation in China the third month the basidiocarp is fully developed and ready for The author examining a P45 harvesting. Some growers cultivation site (Malaysia) sterilize the basidiocarp for a short duration after harvesting Lingzhi, so that the unique to destroy contaminated qualities of the parent strain are bacteria and insect larve that reproduced consistently, and may have deposited during this each batch is standardized. stage. Cultivation content of the active It was a generally held belief ingredients. that wild lingzhi was more natural and hence had a greater In Africa, Mrs Tagwira has therapeutic value. This is not so, found a unique use for the Water as wild lingzhi can easily absorb Hyacinth (Eichornia crassipes). toxic substances from the soil and environment. It is also exposed to the elements. Exposure to rain causes a greater part of the water soluble polysaccharides to be lost, unlike ganoderma grown under control conditions in shelters where temperature is kept at optimum levels and atmospheric pollution kept at the minimum.
Cultivation can also be made to meet specific commercial Adding nutrients to sawdust needs through the use of tissue substract (large-scale culture techniques. These production facility) techniques can be implemented to grow better clones and to This plant has been labeled as produce Basidiocarps of uniform the world’s worst aquatic weed. quality, shape and size. Besides Massive colonies can proliferate that, the culture media can be so rapidly to form massive suitably fortified to improve the colonies that affect the quality of water, access to the fresh water supplies, navigation, irrigation and fisheries.
Her innovative pioneering work makes use of this weed as an excellent substitute for sawdust for the cultivation of Ganoderma lucidum and Preparation of rubberwood sawdust other edible mushroom. substract (small-scale farming) Converting waste biomass Her technique has found use for this otherwise seemingly troublesome weed and at the same time provide a source of food and medicine and an additional source of income for impoverized farmers.
Cultivation can be done using polyethylene bags or by inoculating tree stumps with
Manual packing of sawdust into polybags of this weed to a source of food and medicine.
The Water Hyacinth being a rich source of minerals absorbed from the water makes an excellent substrate and yields Ganoderma of high quality rich in vitamins and minerals, in
Sterilization of polybags in large and small scale farms P47 wood plugs. Cultivation in wood Semi-automated packing of stumps with wood plugs closely polybags mimics natural conditions. addition to triterpenes, However, growth in polybags is polysaccharides, adenosine and faster as the sawdust or wood germanium. chips in them are not as compacted as the fibres in wood and there by standardizing the stumps. The sporangium reaches final product to the required maturity within 3-4 months. Due concentration of active ingre- to the shorter life cycle of dients. sporangium grown in poly bags The sporangium. takes longer to mature when grown in wood stumps, the yield is lower but the nutrient content is higher and the fruit body can be
Sterilized polybags prior to seeding with grain spawn as opposed to those that are Early stage of development grown in wood stumps, the (approx. 1 month), showing concentration of active ingre- "antler" formation dients is greatly reduced. The disadvantage of cultivation in harvested over a longer period. poly bags is offset by preparing Rubber wood sawdust is the a concentration of the extract preferred medium of cultivation in Malaysia. It is comparable to oakwood in terms of specific gravity, quality and size of ganoderma sporangium. The bioactive principles at work are also on par to those operating for sporangium cultivated in oakwood.
Different strains used in cultivation yield different Farmer re-arranging polysaccharides and quantity of polybags after removal of triterpenes, polysaccharides, cotton wool plugs adenosine, sterols, germanium etc. These constituents are also ganoderma mycelium produced. affected by the stage of The submerged fermentation maturation at which the fruit technique of cultivation pro- duces a higher grade of myce-
Development of pilus (approx. 2 months) Harvesting of mature Ganoderma body is harvested and by the method of preparation. lium but is a lot more expensive Standardization takes care of due to the small quantities this problem because con- produced by this method. centrates would make up for the The 1985 production of Ganoderma in Japan was estimated to be about 250 tons dry weight. Cultivation has since developed in China, Taiwan, Korea, Thailand and Malaysia. Today the total world yield is approximately Ganoderma nearing maturity. Observe 4,300 tons annually, the lighter coloured growing area. Also with China the leading note the inconsistency in the shapes producer with an from the same batch output of about 3,000 P49 — Courtesy of John Kuan tons. deficiencies in any particular Some suppliers import the strain used in cultivation. The finished mycelium product of method of cultivation of Ganoderma or the extract of the mycelium also affects the fruit body. A few others grow the quantity and quality of mushroom itself locally, grind it into powder or use a process to extract the active principles using solvents and hot water.
Another supplier claims to separate the spores from the redundant woody material of the fruit body. These spores are collected separately, then powdered and encapsulated. Some suppliers market both mycelium and the fruit body of Mature Harvested Ganoderma for combined use Ganoderma taking into consideration the complimentary or potentiating effects of both mycelium and fruit body powder.
Lingzhi can be taken as a food supplement or treatment because of its vast therapeutic actions. It is also an ideal medication for the maintenance of good all round health. Presentations Available • Sliced fruit - Sold at Chinese Druggist • Ground Mycelium • Ground fruit body • Solvent extracts of fruit body • Ground spore powder • As an ingredient in herbal drinks - wines, teas, coffee Sequence showing all the or other drinks stages of cultivation in a controlled laboratory environment Mode of Preparations produced by the mycelium alters Ground Fruit Body the basic character of rice bran The disadvantages of ground media, turning it into a potent fruit body powder is that this immunomodulating agent itself product will have a higher and thus potentiates the in- cellulose content and less of the herent immunomodulating char- active ingredient, hence the acter of Ganoderma mycelium. therapeutic benefits are greatly diminished when compared to extracts . Extraction Traditionally only water was used for the extraction of the Spore Products active ingredients. Spore are not easily absorbed when ingested. Its active Ganoderma was cut into small ingredients are not assimilated pieces and boiled for close to unless the thick cell wall is lysed, two hours. The filterate is again the active ingredients are then boiled under normal easily absorbed. temperature and pressure. The filterates are allowed to eva- porate and the extract is mixed Mycelium Products with starch or corn flour. This The quality of mycelium mixture is sieved and the fine products depend on the method powder is now ready for used for production. Mycelium capsulation. prepared in solid media con- sisting of grain, soya and bran The low temperature are faster and cheaper to extraction process is the best produce unlike that produced by method used to extract and submerged fermentation. This prepare a high grade con- technique takes time to process, centrate. Very high temperature produces small quantities of destroys some of the thera- mycelium of a higher grade and peutically beneficial ingre- is also costlier than that dients. P51 produced by the solid media method. The disadvantage with this technique is that the high The mycelium products temperature used could result in prepared from rice bran as the degradation of the polysac- media, have the added crides and other active ingre- advantage by which enzymes dients. Moreover by this technique the end product would contain only the water soluble bioactive substances.
Newer methods of extraction use supercritical carbon dioxide, a clean solvent, in its extraction process. By adjusting the temperature and pressure, and Ground Mycelium by using a suitable co-solvent, the solvation power is increased at lower temperatures to extract the premier essential oils and phytochemicals found in Ganoderma. This technique is far superior to the traditional extraction process as the activity of the phytochemicals and polysaccharides are not Mycelium powder in capsules degraded. products in the market and it is Brings back to mind the study generally hard to tell the done in Vietnam, where the genuine from the inferior quality researchers found that the products. essential fatty acids in the residue of the hot water extract A lot depends again on the also had bioactive efficacy. species and clone used, whether prepared from fruit body, or whether it is a simple extract, Products concentrate or ground fruit body. There are a number of Lingzhi
Ground Spore Spore powder in capsules So to maintain standards of 1 gm for general maintenance quality and content qualitative of health, to 9gm taken in and quantitative tests should be divided doses. However, it is best conducted on every batch to start with a lower dosage or even a mycellium preparation by itself to give the body time to adjust.
Various hospitals in China use 5 – 60 ml of syrup containing 10 to 20 % of Ganoderma fruit body or mycelium. The syrup is administered 1 to 3 times daily for a numbers of disorders. The Sliced fruit body mean effective dose was calculated at 300 mg extending produced. That’s way one would to 30 gm or more by Chang in be able to draw comparison 1994. Chang stressed that its between products and inferior effectiveness could be achieved quality products would simply be at 1 to 5 grams because of the eliminated from the market. logarithmic nature of the dose – response. Teoh 1996 based on 6 Standard parameters like years experience, suggests 1 – 2 adenosine, triterpene, germ- capsules (500 mg) daily for a anium and polysaccharide number of clinical conditions. content and not crudely by testing a sample for bitterness. Clarence 1998 suggested a lower combination dosage of mycelium combined with a Dosage and Safety concentrated spore powder In traditional Chinese extract formulation of Lingzhi. medicine, Lingzhi was consumed The dose can be reduced if the by boiling 1.5 – 9 grams of sliced capsule contains spore dry fruit, taken as a tea. For separated from the inert matter P53 more serious illnesses dosages as and used with ground mycelium high as 30grams have been powder. The dosage can be consumed with no ill effects. varied subsequently according to With the more concentrated response, and clinical extracts available, the recom- investigation. mended dosage may range from ReferencesReferences
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48. Yasuo Komodo, Masato 52. Yoshimasa Kasahara & Shimizu, Yoshiko Sonoda & Hiroshi Hikino; Central Yoshihiro Sato; Ganoderic Actions of Adenosine, a Acids and Its Derivatives as Nucleotide of Ganoderma Cholesterol Inhibitors, lucidum, Phytotheraphy Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research, Vol 1, No. 4, Bulletin (1989), 37(2) : pg 1987. 531 - 533. 53. Yoshimasa Kasahara & 49. Yeh S. F., K. C. Lee & M. S. Hiroshi Hikino; Central Shiao; Sterols, Triterpenes Actions of Ganoderma and Fatty Acid Patterns in lucidum Phytotheraphy Ganoderma lucidum, Research, Vol. 1 No. 1 Proceedings of National 1987. Science Council, ROCCA II: pg 129 - 134. 54. Zhang L. & M. Yu; Influence on Natural Killer Cells - 50. Yin Ginyan & Y. Yuan; The Immunopharmacological Anti-Tumour Effect of Study from the Research on P59 Ganoderma lucidum, Ganoderma (Part 1), Zhu S. Reports on the 1994 & M. Mori (Editors), International Symposium Shanghai Medical on Ganoderma lucidum University Press 1993, pg Research, Beijing. 246 - 253. Acknowledgements This book is the culmination of research, feedback and thought- provoking discussions I have had with scientists, fellow researchers, doctors and patients. Many of whom are mentioned throughout this book, though many more have chosen to remain anonymous. I have several people to thank especially whose continuous guidance and support these past seven years has helped keep me focused.
Firstly, my family, especially my wife Dr. Shakuntala for her undying support. Mr. Edmund Ponniah, who knowing of my interest in herbs first drew my attention to Lingzhi and was instrumental in my embarking on this study.
Dr. Kumar Pati, whose friendship I will always treasure and his popular magazine Health World, which first carried my earlier work on Lingzhi and other medicinal mushrooms.
A special thanks to my dear friend, Mr. J. L. Anthony whose tirelessly work into the wee hours of the morning saw the compilation of the research into an initial draft. My brother, Navin who has done an excellent job of editing the book into its current form. And to Mantra Communication, for their fabulous concept and design work on both editions of this book.
Last but definitely not least, to mycologist Prof. R. G. Kapooria of the Dept. of Biology, University of Zambia for his support, and having graciously consented to writing the forward for the first edition of this book in spite of his busy schedule and to Dr. Teow Sun Soo; whose discussion on Lingzhi over lunch for the past eight odd years has always been stimulating and informative.
Seremban, January 2002 Born in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan in 1948, Dr Clarence S Stanislaus is a medical doctor by profession. Graduating in 1974, he has been in private practice for the last twenty odd year. He has been on the panel of a number of companies, and has acted as Medical Consultant. Dr. Clarence has been actively involved in the study of mushrooms since 1992. The author of several articles on the usage of Ling Zhi and other mushrooms, he was a council member of the world Society of Mushroom Biology and Mushroom Products. He has been a participant at various symposiums and conferences among them, the 5th International Mycological Congress in Vancouver, 1994; the 2nd International Symposium on Ganoderma Research in Beijing, 1994; the 2nd International Conference in Ganoderma Mushroom Biology and Mushroom Products at University Park, Pennsylvania 1996. This book is an update of the book originally published in 1999. It contains confirmations of theories first put forth in the original, which have since been proven by various studies worldwide. It also examines several areas that the previous edition had not been able to cover.
Dr. Clarence S Stanislaus M.B.B.S