The iconic mushroom commonly known as Reishi (in Japanese) or Ling Zhi (靈芝 in Chinese) is probably the most respected medicinal mushroom in Asia. The earliest mention of Ling Zhi was in the era of the first emperor of China, Shinghuang of the Ch’in Dynasty 221-207 B.C.E. Once reserved for royalty to extend life and improve health, this polypore mushroom is strikingly beautiful. Deep reddish brown and saucer-shaped, often emerging from a branch-like stem, its smooth upper surface looks lacquered when wet. Because of this glossy appearance, Western mycologists called them “varnished conks” for many years (conks are mushrooms that have pores instead of gills on their undersides, such as maitake and turkey tails). While reishi mushrooms have historically been prepared as teas or infusions, other modern preparations include capsules, tinctures, and fractionated extracts of mushrooms, mycelium, and spores. Reishi is also added to chocolate bars, candies, energy drinks, and even coffee blends! “Reishi” is a common name for a complex of closely-allied species of the Ganoderma genus. Until recently the name reishi referred to the species Ganoderma lucidum; however, new DNA barcoding and phylogenetic techniques have revealed that this name had been inappropriately applied by taxonomists to what is in fact a group of close relatives. These new techniques are now revealing that “reishi” mushrooms once all thought to be Ganoderma lucidum may have been misclassified. This misclassification is understandable, as all these morphologically-similar species naturally grow on old or dead tree trunks and all display remarkable glossy cap surfaces that can vary in color from bright red to black according to their age and environmental factors. Although these species (G. tsugae, G. oregonense, G. carnosum, and G. oerstedii, and G. resinaceum) have 98-100 percent commonality of DNA using the common “ITS genetic region,” they are now considered separate species. Because of its rich history and long tradition of medicinal use, Ganoderma lucidum (in the strictest sense) is now one of the few mushroom species whose DNA has been fully sequenced (16,113 genes). Others are button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) with 10,438 genes and oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) with 12,330 genes (Joint Genome Institute). Reishi is remarkable for its diversity of genes coding for cytochrome P450 enzymes. These enzymes not only afford this species a broad arsenal for producing secondary metabolites for digesting nutrients, but may also confer benefits to human health such as enhancing the degradation of toxins and free radicals and increasing the liver’s metabolic efficiency. The variety of these enzymes, among more than 400 active constituents that have been found, indicates to me that mushrooms such as reishi are like miniature pharmaceutical factories that can produce hundreds of medicinally-interactive compounds. Through trial-and-error and observable outcomes, our ancestors narrowed the field of edible mushroom candidates to just a few with remarkable, health-supporting properties. Today, reishi stands out as one the most valuable of all polypore mushrooms in nature for the benefit of our health. Many naturopaths and doctors prefer organically-grown reishi from pristine environments because they are more pure. Reishi has been called the “panacea polypore,” in part due to a widespread popular belief that this mushroom can help alleviate certain age-related diseases. Although many such claims are exaggerated and unsubstantiated, a number of studies have documented a range of medicinal effects. In 2000, a group of Merck pharmaceutical scientists at the Centro de Investigaci´on B´asica, Merck Sharp & Dohme in Madrid, Spain tested the mycelial extracts of 204 species of mushrooms for their antimicrobial properties (Suay et al., 2000). The mushrooms showing the most activity were “reishi” species (G. lucidum, G. resinaceum and G. pfeifferi) of which 73 percent of the strains showed activities against the bacterium Bacillus subtilis. However, while extracts of the reishi species group all strongly inhibited Bacillus bacteria, they were curiously inactive against other disease-causing bacteria and fungi. That these Ganodermas are species specific in their antimicrobial activities suggests a unique mode of activity, a benchmark test that attracts medical researchers interested in new antibiotic drug discovery. In my work with the U.S. Defense Department’s BioShield BioDefense program, ethanol and water extracts of the living mycelium of Ganoderma resinaceum inhibited virus replication as measured by the viral yield reduction (VYR) assay of Flu A (H5N1) aka “bird flu,” and Flu B viruses. Notably, a “traditional” hot water extract of the fruitbodies arising from the same mycelium demonstrated no notable antiviral activity (Stamets, 2008). A review of the scientific literature reveals that many of the traditional medicinal claims can now be validated, especially the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the anti-cancer claims have yet to achieve the credibility of comparable studies on Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor) mushrooms (see Turkey Tail post). In a recent critique of reishi studies published through 2012, the authors concluded: Our review did not find sufficient evidence to justify the use of G. lucidum as a first-line treatment for cancer. It remains uncertain whether G. lucidum helps prolong long-term cancer survival. However, G. lucidum could be administered as an alternative adjunct to conventional treatment in consideration of its potential of enhancing tumor response and stimulating host immunity. (Jin et al. 2012) While such conclusions presume similar sample preparations and consistent taxonomic identification from study to study, one common theme emerges. The species in the taxonomic constellation of “reishi” mushrooms consistently activate, in vitro and in vivo, human immune cells: macrophages, NK and cytotoxic T cells, on a dose-dependent basis. Moreover, in the previously-mentioned comparison of peer-reviewed studies on reishi and cancer, the authors conclude that the adjunct use of reishi may augment chemotherapeutic drugs to treat cancer and may extend their effectiveness. This is particularly important since a common concern among oncologists is that the antioxidant properties of medicinal mushrooms may interfere with chemotherapeutic drugs. Addressing this issue, Simone et al. (2007) reported: [280 peer-reviewed studies] have consistently shown that non-prescription antioxidants and other nutrients do not interfere with cancer therapeutic modalities. In addition, nonprescription antioxidants and other nutrients enhance the killing of cancer therapeutic modalities, decrease their side effects, and protect normal tissues, and in 15 human studies, 3,738 patients actually had prolonged survival. Although the trends are promising and reishi mushrooms exhibit a number of interesting medicinal properties, modern scientific techniques have yet to affirm its traditional “panacea polypore” status. For now we can state that reishi use is generally safe and has high antioxidant value. While we cannot yet state that reishi mushrooms extend the disease-free period of cancer patients, reishi remains as an excellent candidate for augmenting chemotherapy, according to some cancer researchers. Since funding of clinical studies is either industry-based or from grants — few and far between — the jury is still out on the usefulness of reishi, the “mushroom of immortality,” for extending life. That said, I for one, join our ancestors in being drawn to this mushroom and regularly ingest it in many forms. Financial Disclosure: Paul Stamets, author of Growing Gourmet & Medicinal Mushrooms and educator of mushroom cultivators world-wide, is also the Founder of Fungi Perfecti, LLC — a company that supplies mushroom related products including whole, encapsulated powders, and extracts of mushrooms. Source: www.huffingtonpost.com References:
0 Comments
Linchzhi Mushrooms (Reishi) are excellent for finding, decomposing and flushing out subpar cellular matter throughout the body. They can be called miniature pharmaceutical factories that produce hundreds of medicinally-interactive compounds. For years, I have wanted to include something from Chinese Medicine into my protocol, something universal and not needing a Chinese herbalist to prescribe it. Finally, I have found the perfect answer. Lingzhi mushrooms has literally hundreds of unique bio-active compounds that have life extending [1] properties, [2] stimulates brain neurons, [3] searches out and destroys cancer cells [4] and prevents the development of new fat cells in obese individuals. [5] In terms of life span extension it has been shown to increase life in studies by 9% to more than 20% in animal studies. Ganoderma lucidum, an oriental fungus, has a long history of use for promoting health and longevity in China, Japan, and other Asian countries. It is a large, dark mushroom with a glossy exterior and a woody texture. The Latin word lucidus means “shiny” or “brilliant” and refers to the varnished appearance of the surface of the mushroom. The iconic mushroom commonly known as Reishi (in Japanese) or Ling Zhi (靈芝 in Chinese) is probably the most respected medicinal mushroom in Asia. While mushrooms such as shitake, maitake, and cordyceps, all share similar immune boosting properties, Red Reishi has also the longest history and has been known to be effective in the treatment of the widest range of health conditions. Unlike other mushrooms, only Lingzhi has many important compounds such as triterpenes (ganoderic acid) that gives them a unique characteristic of being bitter in taste. Use of Lingzhi mushrooms as a medicine goes as far back as the Han Dynasty’s “Materia Medica” or Ben Cao Gang Mu (the earliest herbal pharmacopoeia text known, written around 1590 AD). No other plant is better at finding, decomposing and flushing out subpar cellular matter throughout the body, which then allows the surrounding organ and blood system to function at a higher level. Lingzhi is loaded with terpenes. It makes sense that one of its innate abilities is to do a similar breaking-down and dissipating action in the body. Because of its rich history and long tradition of medicinal use, Ganoderma lucidum is now one of the few mushroom species whose DNA has been fully sequenced (16,113 genes). Paul Stamets, author of Growing Gourmet & Medicinal Mushrooms and educator of mushroom cultivators world-wide says, “Reishi is remarkable for its diversity of genes coding for cytochrome P450 enzymes. These enzymes not only afford this species a broad arsenal for producing secondary metabolites for digesting nutrients, but may also confer benefits to human health such as enhancing the degradation of toxins and free radicals and increasing the liver’s metabolic efficiency. The variety of these enzymes, among more than 400 active constituents that have been found, indicates to me that mushrooms such as Reishi are like miniature pharmaceutical factories that can produce hundreds of medicinally-interactive compounds.” Terpenes—Nature’s Internal Solvent Out of the functional compounds found thus far in Lingzhi, the largest group is terpenes, of which triterpenes are a derivative. You know that aroma from pine trees? From clove? Or anise, oregano, menthol, cinnamon, and citrus? That largely comes from terpenes (more commonly referred to as essential oils). Terpenes are considered the strongest anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor compounds found in nature. Numerous triterpenoids have been shown to possess rapid acetylcholine action, our brain’s main neurotransmitter. Oral administration of Lingzhi show triterpenes appearing in blood plasma in high quantities in under 20 minutes from ingestion. Aside from this speed and breadth of effect, the more fascinating property of all terpenes is their ability to dissolve, dissipate, and decompose cellular matter. One of the first terpenes ever extracted (12th century, by Arnaud de Villanosa) from nature was turpentine—yes, the paint thinner, which is natural. For those looking for an ultra-low cost solution to part of what Lingzhi mushrooms can do know that turpentine has what we would expect from terpenes. Turpentine and petroleum distillates similar to kerosene have been used medicinally since ancient times and are still being used as folk remedies up to the present. They were used in ancient Babylon to treat stomach problems, inflammations and ulcers. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), an organic sulfur compound that was used only as an industrial solvent, is also known for its positive health effects. (Look soon for an essay on the importance and use of biological solvents in medicine.) It is also important to know that marijuana is loaded with terpenes and that is one of the reasons it makes such a good natural chemotherapy agent. The Adaptogen Concept Regular consumption of Lingzhi mushrooms can enhance our body's immune system and improve blood circulation, thus improving better health conditions. Generally, Lingzhi is recommended as an adaptogen, immune modulator, and a general tonic. These mushrooms are also used to help treat anxiety, high blood pressure, hepatitis, bronchitis, insomnia, and asthma. In some ways, similar to medical marijuana (which has regulatory effects of the nervous system) adaptogens are substances that work by adjusting altered body conditions back to normal, resulting in stabilization of cellular and psychological homeostasis. The traditional herbal texts, as well as these recent scientific studies, report that Lingzhi works both for insomnia and increasing mental clarity—two seemingly opposing problems. It’s also been found to work for both for high and low blood pressure symptoms; both over-active and under-active thyroids; both overactive immunity (Lupus, Fibromyalgia and other autoimmune diseases), and weak immunity (colds, flu, and viruses). To a western approach, these health issues are seen as polar opposites, and medically treated as such. To any natural healing model, such as acupuncture, these are seen more as conditions of deficiency or excess. This is where the adaptogenic concept applied to certain herbs and plants works well, because their main end effect is homeostasis and balance. Lingzhi fits the classic definition of an adaptogen. It has double-direction activity, meaning that it, as an example, improves functioning of the immune and organ systems, whether they are deficient or excessive. It doesn’t stimulate the liver, the kidney, the overall system. Rather, it regulates them. It doesn’t stimulate or suppress the immune system—it’s called an immuno-modulator. Lingzhi’s wide ability to repair the function of one person’s liver, while increasing the function of another’s lungs, or kidneys, or skin, or mental function, seems less odd once we view it from the adaptogen angle. Table - Pharmacological effects of Lingzhi Mushrooms
Conclusion In Chinese, the name lingzhi represents a combination of spiritual potency and essence of immortality, and is regarded as the “herb of spiritual potency,” symbolizing success, well-being, divine power, and longevity. Among cultivated mushrooms, G. lucidum is unique in that its pharmaceutical rather than nutritional value is paramount. Part Two - Lingzhi Mushrooms - Enough Science to Drown Doctors References: [1] Chuang MH, Chiou SH, Huang CH, Yang WB, Wong CH. The lifespan-promoting effect of acetic acid and Reishi polysaccharide. Bioorg Med Chem. 2009 Nov 15;17(22):7831-40. [2] Wu Z, Zhang Y, Tan N, Zhao C, Yang J, Zhu J-S. ReishiMax extends the life span of mice: A preliminary report. The FASEB Journal. 2011 April;25(601.2). [3] Chen LW, Horng LY, Wu CL, Sung HC, Wu RT. Activating mitochondrial regulator PGC-1alpha expression by astrocytic NGF is a therapeutic strategy for Huntington's disease. Neuropharmacology. 2012 May 24. [4] Sun LX, Lin ZB, Duan XS, et al. Enhanced MHC class I and costimulatory molecules on B16F10 cells by Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides. J Drug Target. 2012 Aug;20(7):582-92. [5] Thyagarajan-Sahu A, Lane B, Sliva D. ReishiMax, mushroom based dietary supplement, inhibits adipocyte differentiation, stimulates glucose uptake and activates AMPK. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2011;11:74. Source: http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/how-lingzhi-mushrooms-reishi-combats-aging-disease-and-cancer Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are bright orange-red in color and come from a bush native to China. They are extraordinarily rich in antioxidants, primarily Vitamin A, Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), and Vitamin C, all of which are known to prevent cell damage and lessen your risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. The Riboflavin contained in goji berries is important for glucose (sugar) metabolism, the health of eye tissue, skin tissue and the mucus membranes of the respiratory system. Vitamin A is vital for maintaining healthy tissues as well as supporting the immune system, bone development, eye health and protecting nerve fibers. And of course, Vitamin C is necessary for improved immune function, healthy gums, and collagen formation for healthy skin and connective tissues. The Longevity Properties of The Goji Berries In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the kidneys (or the “energy” of the kidneys) are essentially the vitality of life. In other words, they are considered The Fountain of Youth. Kidney Qi (energy) is the initial Qi necessary to give us life at birth, and as we grow the Kidney Qi is fortified by how we live:
Li Ching-Yuen, a herbalist and martial artist from China, allegedly had one of the oldest lifespans ever recorded. There is no real proof, however, as to the exact number of years he lived, though there are some sources that put him as old as 197 and others as old as 256! Whether these claims are true or not there is one thing that has been agreed upon, he lived well beyond the age of 100. He said this about life, “Keep a quiet heart, sit like a tortoise, walk sprightly like a pigeon and sleep like a dog” And if you think about it, this is exactly what is necessary for strong Kidney Qi! Li Ching-Yuen experimented with herbs throughout his life, so it is no surprise that he attributed his longevity, in part, to the consumption of Goji Berries. Goji berries are not only known for their anti-aging properties, other health benefits include:
How To Eat Goji BerriesGoji berries are extremely diverse when it comes to how they can be consumed. If you prefer to eat them raw (or hydrated), you will find that they have a sweet/tart flavor which is similar to the flavor profile of cherry tomatoes. This makes them a wonderful candidate for a pie filing! Now, eating goji berries dry is probably the most common choice. When goji berries are dry their texture is much like a raisins, making them a wonderful addition to any salad, trail mix, or simply as a stand alone! They also make a great tea! Just add some goji berries to boiling water and then squeeze the berries to allow the juice to come out. Try adding lemon or cinnamon for added flavor!
Aloe Vera Gel “Aloe Phoenix”
Gel Aloe Vera “Aloe Phoenix” composition is based on active Aloe Vera plant components that smooth, nourish and extra moisture the skin. Gel restores skin softness and elasticity, in addition to a positive effect on mosquito bite, burns, cut, injured or frostbitten skin or hen suffering from hemorrhoids. Functions and Effects:
Ingredients: Aloe Vera gel, Aloe Vera juice, hyaluronic acid, β-glucan, allantoin and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate, gialoplasma, glycerol acid, glycerin, propylene glycol, metilbenzoli, water. Package contents: 50 grams in a tube More information about the product: Main ingredients: Aloe vera gel & juice — It comes from the aloe vera gel which can be used both as medicine and food. Containing a variety of substances like aloin, aloe polysaccharides, phenols, amino acids, vitamins, mineral substances, organic acids, etc., the aloe vera juice has a multiple health care functions by both oral administration and external application. It can enable the convergence, softness, moisture and whitening of the skin, prevent the skin from drying and repair the harm by the sunlight radiation. In addition, the aloe vera juice can diminish the inflammation, stop the pain and accelerate the healing on wounds of burns, cuts, acne, insect bites, etc.. It can also prevent and mitigate the formation of scars. Hyaluronic acid — Made by hi-tech biotechnological engineering from the natural moisture elements in tissues and body fluid, the hyaluronic acid can improve the water retention ability of the skin, persist in moistening the skin and promote the blood circulation. It is helpful for the absorption of nutrition and has a function of anti-wrinkle, increasing the skin’s elasticity and slowing down its aging. In addition, this product can also eliminate the harm to the skin by oxygen free radicals produced by UV radiation and promote the healing of wounds by advancing the proliferation and differentiation of the epidermal cells. It will be also helpful to reduce the striae gravidarum. β-Glucan – Extracting from the oats produced in the tablelands, the β-Glucan can effectively penetrate into the skin, stimulate the generation of collagen, promote the regeneration of the skin, relieve the wrinkles, effectively resist the ultraviolet light and protect the skin cells. Allantoin – Being fine chemical products, the allantoin is widely used in fields of medicine, cosmetics, agriculture, etc. It has functions of sterilization, analgesic and anti-oxidation. This product enables the skin to maintain the water, moisture and softness and at the same time it bears the physiological functions of promoting the growth of cells, accelerating the healing of wounds, softening the keratin, etc., which makes the allantoin the good skin trauma healing and anti-ulcer medicine. Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate — It is extracted from the natural licorice which has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, detoxification, anti-allergy and deodorant functions without side effects. Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate can prevent the irritation and allergic effects on skin by chemical agents and has functions of dispelling the freckle and sunscreen. |