Studies show reishi mushrooms benefit people stricken with Cancer

[Guest guest]

Studies show reishi mushrooms benefit people stricken with Cancer

Apr 25, 2007 06:52 PDT

 

Studies show reishi mushrooms benefit people stricken with a variety

of ailments, from high blood pressure to AIDS

 

Thursday, January 25, 2007 by: Dani Veracity

 

http://www.newstarget.com/021498.html

 

Hailed in ancient Eastern medicine as the " mushroom of immortality "

and the " medicine of kings, " you'd expect reishi to offer you some

pretty astounding health benefits, right? Your assumptions are

correct. Reishi may be able to boost your immune system, fight

cancer, ward off heart disease, calm your nerves and relieve both

allergies and inflammation.

" Reishi indeed sounds like a cure-all, " writes Rebecca Wood in her

book " New Whole Foods Encyclopedia. " She goes on to explain reishi's

wide range of uses:

 

" An immunostimulant, it is helpful for people with AIDS, leaky-gut

syndrome, Epstein-Barr, chronic bronchitis and other infectious

diseases. It is used as an aid to sleep, as a diuretic, as a

laxative and to lower cholesterol. "

 

How can one fungus help the human body in so many ways? Traditional

Eastern medical science explains reishi's wide range of medicinal

applications better, perhaps, than mainstream medicine ever could.

According to Eastern thought, the body needs to defend itself

against threats to its " equilibrium. "

 

These threats can be physical, such as viruses and bacteria that

cause infection; emotional, such as stressors

that cause anxiety; or energetic, in that they reduce alertness.

Whatever the threat, reishi helps the body maintain its defense

against these threats to its equilibrium, helping the body to

maintain balance. In this sense, diseases like heart disease and

cancer mean that the body is out of balance, which is why an

equilibrium-enhancing remedy such as reishi can help so many diverse

ailments.

 

Skeptics can doubt the previous explanation as Taoist " mumbo jumbo, "

but laboratory research proves many of reishi's medicinal

applications. As Dr. Andrew Weil writes, reishi " has been the

subject of a surprising amount of scientific research in Asia and

the West. "

 

Research shows that the polysaccharide beta-1,3-D-glucan in reishi

boosts the immune system by raising the amount of macrophages T-

cells, which has major implications for people suffering from AIDS

and other immune system disorders.

 

This immune-boosting action also works wonders in the prevention and

treatment of cancer, as the T-cells are then able to fight cancer

cells more effectively. However, reishi may help the body defeat

cancer in not just one, but four ways. In addition to boosting the

immune system, the glucan in reishi helps immune cells bind to tumor

cells.

 

Many experts believe that it also actually reduces the number of

cancerous cells, making it easier for T-cells and macrophages to rid

the body of them. Another substance in reishi, called canthaxanthin,

slows down the growth of tumors, according to " Prescription for

Dietary Wellness " author Phyllis A. Balch and other experts.

 

As a result of these amazing anti-cancer abilities, laboratory

research and traditional medicinal usage of reishi to

fight cancer is so positive that the Japanese government officially

recognizes it as a cancer treatment.

 

Besides cancer, reishi can help and treat another of America's top

killers: cardiovascular disease. The protection reishi offers

against heart disease and stroke is truly remarkable because it

helps prevent so many different risk factors, due to its high

content of heart-saving substances like sterols, ganoderic acids,

coumarin, mannitol and polysaccharides.

 

Experts believe that the ganoderic acids in particular lower

triglyceride levels, remove excess cholesterol from the blood, lower

blood pressure, reduce platelet stickiness and even help correct

arrhythmia.

 

In fact, for 54 people with hypertension unresponsive to medication,

taking reishi extract three times a day for four weeks was enough to

significantly lower blood pressure, according to a study reported by

Burton Goldberg in " Heart Disease. " Just imagine how the incidence

of

cardiovascular disease could be reduced if using reishi really

caught on

in the Western hemisphere.

 

While you protect your body against infectious disease, cancer and

heart

disease, your use of reishi can also help relieve your everyday

discomforts. Do you have allergies? Japanese researchers discovered

that

the lanostan in reishi acts as a natural antihistamine. Do you

suffer

from muscle aches or arthritis? Dr. William B. Stavinhoa of the

University of Texas Health Science Center found that reishi is as

powerful as five milligrams of hydrocortisone, but with minimal side

effects.

 

What about anxiety or insomnia? According to " Mind Boosters " by Dr.

Ray

Sahelia, the reishi mushroom can calm the mind, as well as improve

memory, concentration and focus. With all these benefits, reishi

truly

is the " medicine of kings. "

 

 

Different types of reishi

Though there are six different types of reishi, all classified by

color,

herbalists generally call red reishi the most potent and medicinal

variety, and thus it is the most commonly used form of reishi in

North

America, Japan, China, Taiwan and Korea.

 

In the wild, the mushroom grows on deciduous trees in heavily

forested

areas of China and Japan, but it's now easily and widely cultivated

commercially, so you don't have to venture into the forest to enjoy

the

benefits of what " Herbal Medicine-Maker's Handbook " author James

Green

calls a " remarkably beneficial fungus for the human body. "

 

However, keep in mind that reishi isn't exactly the kind of mushroom

you'll want to put in your next salad, either. Since it's more than

90

percent indigestible fiber, reishi has an extremely wood-like

texture

and to top it off, it's unpleasantly bitter. In spite of this bitter

flavor, many reishi enthusiasts use ground reishi to make a

life-enhancing tea or even use the mushrooms in soups.

 

For the less daring, many health food stores offer reishi capsules,

tablets and extracts, and Japanese research suggests taking vitamin

C

along with it may enhance reishi's medicinal effects.

 

So, how much reishi should you take? In the " Vitamin Bible for the

Twenty-first Century, " vitamin expert Earl Mindell advises an

average

dose of 100 milligrams of reishi extract daily to boost your immune

system, reduce inflammation and ease joint pain.

 

On the other hand, Dr. Linda B. White recommends up to three

1,000-milligram tablets up to three times per day in her book " The

Herbal Drugstore. " Because of this wide range of dosage suggestions

and

additional risks it might pose for pregnant or lactating women (even

though reishi has no known toxicity) you should check with a

physician,

preferably a naturopath, before adding reishi to your regimen.

 

The experts speak on reishi:

 

 

Reishi's wide range of medicinal applications

Health Benefits: Reishi indeed sounds like a cure-all. An

immunostimulant, it is helpful for people with AIDS, leaky gut

syndrome,

Epstein-Barr, chronic bronchitis, and other infectious viruses. It

is

used as an aid to sleep; as a diuretic; as a laxative; and to lower

cholesterol. Reishi mushrooms are antioxidants and liver

protectants..

New Whole Foods Encyclopedia by Rebecca Wood, page 288

One key function, identified long ago by Eastern medical science, is

defense--that is, the body has the need and ability to defend itself

against threats to its equilibrium, whether they be physical,

emotional,

or energetic. Having noted and studied the body's defensive

capabilities, Chinese doctors then explored the natural world to

find

ways of maintaining and enhancing them, and they discovered a number

of

ways to do so, including the administration of herbal remedies.

Among

these remedies are ginseng, astragalus, and several mushrooms that

grow

on trees, such as Ganoderma lucidum (known to the Chinese as ling

chih

and the Japanese as reishi).

8 Weeks To Optimum Health By Andrew Weil MD, page 15

 

Not all of the active components in reishi have been isolated; like

many

other organic substances, the molecules in this plant are quite

complex,

though they are probably mostly polysaccharides and peptides. Dr.

Terry

Willard, a proponent of the medical uses of this mushroom, maintains

that reishi also decreases free radicals by 50.4 percent through an

as

yet, unidentified antioxidant. ... Other researchers suspect that

reishi

may not have an antioxidant of its own but rather stimulates

production

of the body's own free radical scavenger, an enzyme called

superoxide

dismutase (SOD). According to the Bulletin of the Oriental Healing

Arts

Institute, reishi acts as an agent for promoting an increase in

leukocytes, phagocytosis which in turn increase the number of

disease-fighting T-cells in the bloodstream.

Attaining Medical Self Sufficiency An Informed Citizens Guide by

Duncan

Long, page 196

 

These powerful adaptogens -- Siberian ginseng, schisandra, ginseng,

astragalus, and reishi--are among what Teeguarden calls

the " superstars

of Chinese tonic herbalism . . . incomparable, legendary herbal

substances [that] have withstood the test of time. " These five herbs

also tend to be the ones with the most scientific backing for their

strengthening and normalizing effects.

Off The Shelf Natural Health How To Use Herbs And Nutrients To Stay

Well

By Mark Mayell, page 291

 

 

Reishi and the immune system

Reishi is a purely medicinal mushroom, not a culinary one, both

because

it is hard and woody and because it tastes very bitter. But it is

nontoxic and has been the subject of a surprising amount of

scientific

research, both in Asia and the West. Although most of the research

has

been in animals, the results are so promising that I think human

studies

will soon follow. Like maitake and other related mushroom species,

reishi improves immune function and inhibits the growth of some

malignant tumors. Additionally, it shows significant anti-

inflammatory

effect, reduces allergic responsiveness, and protects the liver.

8 Weeks To Optimum Health By Andrew Weil MD, page 140

Reishi is a supreme immune tonic. Because of its neutral energy, it

is

fine for anyone to take. It treats immune disorders including AIDS

as it

raises the T cell levels (an index of AIDS and immune disorders). It

is

also specific for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It inhibits bacteria and

viruses, treats cancer and tumors and its adaptogenic quality

protects

the body against stress. It treats heart disease, reduces

cholesterel

and lowers high blood pressure.

The Herbs Of Life by Lesley Tierra, page 195

 

Maitake, shiitake, and reishi mushrooms possess beta-1,3-D-glucan, a

type of polysaccharide that stimulates the immune cells. Their

immune-boosting power makes them essential for fighting the flu.

Prescription For Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A Balch CNC and

James F

Balch MD, page 469

 

In addition to being an effective energizer, reishi is an

antioxidant

that protects the body from the harmful effects of radiation and

free

radicals. It contains polysaccharides and other compounds that may

combat bacteria and viruses and boost the immune system

Off The Shelf Natural Health How To Use Herbs And Nutrients To Stay

Well

By Mark Mayell, page 56

 

Reishi Mushrooms Known as kisshotake or the " lucky fungus, " in

Japan,

reishi mushrooms were originally used in China in both cooking and

traditional healing. However, for several thousand years the

Japanese

have used these delicately flavored mushrooms in their cuisine.

reishi

mushrooms, which are quite pricey, are available in Asian markets

and

gourmet shops. However, they may be worth their weight in gold.

Recent

studies show that reishi may stimulate the immune system, which

increases the body's ability to ward off disease. In addition,

reishi

mushrooms contain compounds that are natural antihistamines and have

strong anti-allergic activity. Other studies show that reishi can

lower

blood cholesterol levels and prevent the formation of dangerous

blood

clots that can lead to a heart attack or stroke..

Earl Mindells Soy Miracle Earl Mindel RPH PHD, page 107

 

reishi is a supreme immune tonic. Because of its neutral energy, it

is

fine for anyone to take. It treats immune disorders including AIDS

as it

raises the T cell levels (an index of AIDS and immune disorders). It

is

also specific for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It inhibits bacteria and

viruses, treats cancer and tumors and its adaptogenic quality

protects

the body against stress. It treats heart disease, reduces

cholesterel

and lowers high blood pressure.

The Herbs Of Life by Lesley Tierra, page 195

 

Herbal Medicine: There are numerous herbs useful in the care of

infections. Some are directly antibacterial or antiviral while

others

are immune potentiators. Some herbs do both. Examples include

goldenseal, licorice, astragalus, garlic, Panax ginseng, reishi and

shiitake mushrooms, slippery elm, and echinacea.

Alternative Medicine by Burton Goldberg, page 1112

 

The third is reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), currently available in US

health food stores. It is said to have been used as a " fountain of

youth " elixir for centuries. A novel protein with immunomodulating

activity in vivo has been isolated from the mycelial extract of

reishi.

Cancer Therapy by Ralph W Moss PhD, page 248

 

reishi tones the immune system, supports nerve function, scavenges

free

radicals, protects the liver, and quells inflammation and allergies.

According to Hobbs (1996), " reishi has the unique ability among

medicinal mushrooms to calm and support nerve function. " In his

practice, he recommends reishi to people with chronic stress,

anxiety,

or insomnia.

Disease Prevention And Treatment by Life Extension Foundation, page

116

 

Reishi, shiitake, and maitake mushroom extracts or powders are all

proven antivirals and are used as immunostimulants around the world

for

everything from colds to cancer.

Herbal Defense by Ralph T Golan ND, page 180

 

Immunity (increases) astragalus, codonopsis, cinnamon, ginger,

ginseng,

bayberry, schisandra reishi echinacea and American ginseng.

The Herbs Of Life by Lesley Tierra, page 231

 

The most common herbs used in fu-zheng are blood-vitalizing herbs,

including astragalus, milletia, reishi, panax ginseng, schizandra,

jujube, ligus-ticum, hoelen, salvia, ho shou wu, cordyceps,

atractylodis, and codonopsis. Studies continue to demonstrate that

these

herbs have a dramatic impact on the enhancement of an immune system

weakened by chemo and radiation therapies. They not only protect the

immune and endocrine systems but also inhibit such diseases as

influenza, upper respiratory infections, fungal infections, and

chemically induced hepatitis. These diseases can cause serious

complications for the person with cancer, requiring an interruption

in

treatment and a course of antibiotics that can lead to diarrhea and

other debilitating problems.

Herbal Medicine Healing Cancer by Donald R Yance Jr, page 85

 

If yeast or other vaginal infections keep coming back, your best bet

is

to see a natural health practitioner who'll recommend an herbal

tonic

program that you'll use for a series of months. It will likely

include

herbs such as astragalus, reishi, shiitake, nettles, or burdock --

botanicals that gently and gradually rebuild the immune system and

the

many organs it involves. Such a program will likely include some

diet

changes as well, such as cutting down on caffeine and sugar.

The Herbal Drugstore by Linda B White MD, page 535

 

The once extremely rare and precious reishi mushroom is now

cultivated

and widely available. It is a very potent immune system and

longevity

tonic. Traditionally used to " nourish the heart and pacify the

spirit, "

it has also been found to have numerous other health benefits.

The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook by Alan Keith Tillotson, page 190

 

Use one of the immune-boosting tonics, like maitake, reishi, or

astragalus. In cities, people live in close proximity and come into

contact with each other more frequently than in rural areas. Germs

spread easily in dense populations, so give your immune system some

help.

8 Weeks To Optimum Health By Andrew Weil MD, page 229

 

HERBS: Herbal medicine is best administered under the guidance of a

professional trained in their use. The following herbs can be used

safely as a self-care protocol, however. Dr. Bock recommends

astragalus,

ginseng, and maitake and reishi mushrooms for general immune

support.

Alternative Medicine by Burton Goldberg, page 1043

 

Mushrooms, particularly Eastern varieties, revitalize the body.

Various

cultures consider them to contain the secrets of staying young.

Reishi

and shiitake mushrooms build resistance to stress by strengthening

the

immune system. They also provide key B vitamins to the liver and

stimulate the adrenals with their high concentration of pantothenic

acid. The common American button mushroom contains methionine, an

amino

acid high in sulphur. When combined with tofu, the result is a more

complete protein.

Food Swings by Barnet Meltzer MD, page 258

 

Several species of mushroom -- including shiitake (Lentinus edodes),

reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), and maitake (Grifola frondosa) -- are

considered immune system stimulants. They contain compounds called

polysac-charides that are similar to those found in other

immune-boosting plants, such as astragalus and echinacea. These

compounds increase the ability of white blood cells to devour germs.

Anti-Aging Prescriptions by James Duke PhD, page 163

 

This is the type of herbal tea I drink most frequently. After all,

on a

day-to-day basis, we mostly need to keep our good health intact. If

I

feel " immune challenged " or I want to start my day with an immune

boost,

I'll drink a cup of a blend that contains any of the following tonic

herbs, known as adaptogens (herbs that strengthen or enhance the

immune

system, nervous system, and/or glandular system while they help the

body

cope with stress): Siberian ginseng, Panax ginseng, astragalus,

shizandra, echinacea, ashwagandha, reishi mushrooms, licorice.

Caffeine Blues By Stephen Cherniske MS, page 324

 

Therapeutic and Healing Powers: reishi and shiitake mushrooms boost

the

immune system by producing interferon-like effects that fight viral

infection. Mushrooms are also being studied for their anti-cancerous

capabilities.

Food Swings by Barnet Meltzer MD, page 216

 

Mushrooms from Japan -- specifically, shiitake as a food, and reishi

and

maitake (which are currently available in the United States only as

extracts) -- offer a host of immune-system benefits.

Herbal Defense by Ralph T Golan ND, page 152

 

All edible mushrooms contain both medicinal and nutritional

qualities.

Scientific research indicates that the major actions of medicinal

mushrooms are stimulating the immune system and protecting against

cardiovascular disease, free radicals, mutagens, and toxins. Most

medicinal mushrooms contain polysaccharides (complex sugar

molecules)

called beta-glucans that increase RNA and DNA in the bone marrow

where

immune cells, like lymphocytes, are made. The combination of

compounds

in mushrooms is believed to target the immune system and aid in

neuron

transmission, metabolism, and the transport of nutrients and oxygen.

Three mushroom varieties -- reishi, shiitake, and maitake -- have

been

studied intensively and have proven to possess strong medicinal

properties. All mushrooms must be cooked to get the nutritional

value.

The cell walls cannot be digested unless they are tenderized by heat.

Prescription For Dietary Wellness by Phyllis A Balch, page 167

 

If you have a family history of cancer, have been a smoker, have

worked

in a hazardous occupation, or know that you have had toxic

exposures,

take one or more of the tonics that are cancer-protective and

immune-enhancing. My first choices would be maitake and reishi

mushrooms.

8 Weeks To Optimum Health By Andrew Weil MD, page 251

 

Ganoderma: Ganoderma lucidum, the Chinese " mushroom of immortality "

called ling zhi (in Japan, reishi) has been extensively studied in

the

laboratory for antiviral activity and is well known for its

immune-modulating activity. My teacher of Chinese medicine, the late

Dr.

York Why Loo, kept a specimen of dried wild Chinese ling zhi in a

jar

for use in his old age. So revered by Chinese doctors is ling zhi

that

it is frequently pictured on their business cards or displayed in

their

shop windows as a sign of respect for its importance.

Viral Immunity by J.E, page 292

 

In China, many pharmacological, chemical, and biochemical studies

have

been conducted with this remarkable mushroom. Results show that

reishi

meets all qualifications of being an ad-aptogen and tonic. Its use

bolsters the immune system, stimulates health, and improves or

prevents

allergic conditions and a variety of degenerative and other disease

conditions.

Miracle Medicine Herbs by Richard M Lucas, page 9

 

Try shiitake or reishi mushrooms with your veggies -- the Chinese

use

them to bolster the immune system.

Prescription Alternatives by Earl Mindell RPh PhD and Virginia

Hopkins

MA, page 283

 

Preliminary human research demonstrates some efficacy for the

mushroom

reishi in treating chronic hepatitis B, although this use still

needs to

be confirmed.

The Natural Pharmacy by Schuyler W Lininger, page 80

 

Many researchers are now recommending a combination of mushrooms to

maximize effects on the immune system. " A complex blend of medicinal

fungi can offer a powerful therapeutic punch, " says internationally

renowned mycologist Paul Stamets, known by some as " Mr. Medicinal

Mushroom. " 1 Two other mushrooms that hold great therapeutic promise

are

reishi, or Ling zhi (Ganoderma lucidum), and maitake (Gri-Jola

frondosa).

The Encyclopedia Of Popular Herbs by Robert S McCaleb, page 335

 

Improves conditions of viral hepatitis (70% of all cases with this

condition showed marked improvement after taking reishi).

Miracle Medicine Herbs by Richard M Lucas, page 9

 

Chinese herbalists have long considered mushrooms to be the most

beneficial of all medicinal foods; however, the ordinary culinary

mushrooms found at the supermarket are not as advantageous to the

immune

system as the more exotic reishi, maitake, or shiitake mushrooms.

Modern

research has determined that these mushrooms can support immune

function. Extracts of these mushrooms can be purchased in capsule

form.

Prescription For Dietary Wellness by Phyllis A Balch, page 10

 

Immune tonics: reishi, astragalus, schisandra liver tonics:

dandelion,

fennel nerve tonics: scullcap, valerian nutritive tonics: comfrey,

marshmallow.

The Herbs Of Life by Lesley Tierra, page 139

 

Immune-modulating plants often used by doctors of herbal medicine

include Asian ginseng, eleuthero (Siberian ginseng, ashwagandha, and

the

medicinal mushrooms shiitake and reishi.

The Natural Pharmacy by Schuyler W Lininger, page 89

 

The reishi mushroom is traditionally used in Chinese medicine for

asthenia-type syndromes, characterized by a deficiency of vital

energy

and functions of the lower body. reishi is the perfect remedy for

the

typical American suffering from constant stress. This type of

individual

has depressed vital force and is likely to be both deficient and

toxic.

When a person in such a state develops cancer and is then faced with

the

toxicities of chemotherapy, the situation calls for reishi. reishi's

overall effects could be described as regulatory and beneficial to

the

restoration of homeostasis. Its effect on the immune system is total

enhancement of immune function: increase of white blood-cell count,

platelets, hemoglobin, and various tumor-fighting cells. reishi also

improves both energy and sleep.

Herbal Medicine Healing Cancer by Donald R Yance Jr, page 156

 

Master the language of mushrooms. Forget those bland, almost

tasteless

specimens that you find in the typical mushroom omelet. Your immune

system craves exotic mushrooms, notably shiitake, maitake, and

reishi.

" Shiitake and maitake mushrooms strengthen the immune system, " notes

Santa Cruz, California, herbalist Christopher Hobbs, L.Ac., the

author

of several authoritative herb guides. " reishi mushrooms build up

bone

marrow, where white blood cells are made. "

Blended Medicine by Michael Castleman, page 10

 

Reishi is one of the most versatile medicinal mushrooms. It has long

been used in Asia as an energy tonic to promote longevity and

overall

health. Studies indicate that reishi is an antioxidant and contains

polysaccharides and other compounds that may boost the immune

system.

reishi is taken to counter bacteria and viruses and has shown

promise as

an agent to help prevent or treat cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome,

and

other conditions. Russian researchers at the Cancer Research Center

in

Moscow have had positive results using reishi extracts to boost the

immunity of cancer patients.

Off The Shelf Natural Health How To Use Herbs And Nutrients To Stay

Well

By Mark Mayell, page 88

 

The fruiting body of reishi mushroom is sweet in taste and neutral

to

slightly warming in action. It calms the spirit; strengthens

immunity;

slows aging; strengthens the heart, lungs, and liver; and relaxes

spasms.

The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook by Alan Keith Tillotson, page 190

 

 

Reishi and cancer

For the past decade, reishi has also been used as a cancer treatment

in

Japan, with some success. reishi appears to inhibit cancer via its

beneficial effect on the immune system. Compounds in reishi can

boost

immune function by activating macrophages and T-cells, the

disease-fighting cells that help rid the body of all foreign

invaders,

including viruses, bacteria, and cancer cells.

Earl Mindell's Supplement Bible by Earl Mindell RPh PhD, page 167

One of the reishi polysaccharides, called glucan, shows anti-tumor

potential according to some researchers. Researchers speculate that

glucan reduces the number of cancerous cells making it possible for

the

body's immune system to handle them more effectively.

Attaining Medical Self Sufficiency An Informed Citizens Guide by

Duncan

Long, page 196

 

Carbohydrate-proteins, called mucopolysaccharides, which are found

in

many herbs, such as echinacea and reishi mushrooms, not only

activate

macrophages but actually help them to bind to the antigen or tumor

cell.

 

Herbal Medicine Healing Cancer by Donald R Yance Jr., page 93

 

Canthaxanthin acts as an antioxidant, boosts immunity, slows the

growth

of cancer cells, and may help to prevent skin and breast cancers.

Food

sources include mushrooms, particularly reishi, maitake, and

shiitake.

Prescription For Dietary Wellness by Phyllis A Balch, page 50

 

Studies done at the Cancer Research Center in Moscow have found

reishi

to act as a host defense protector. It helps the body to fight

cancer

and slow down tumor growth.

Treating Cancer With Herbs by Michael Tierra ND, page 166

 

Ancient Chinese herbalists considered the reishi mushroom the most

beneficial of all medicines and the emperors of Japan believed the

reishi granted them immortality. Today, the Japanese government

officially recognizes the reishi mushroom as a substance for

treating

cancer.

Prescription For Dietary Wellness by Phyllis A Balch, page 167

 

Because it is called ling zhi in Chinese, the scientists called this

protein ling zhi-8. And Prof. H. Maruyama called the antitumor

activity

of a water extract of reishi as well as two other

mushrooms " remarkably

effective for inhibition of tumor growth. "

Cancer Therapy by Ralph W Moss PhD, page 248

 

Scientific studies report this food's effectiveness in controlling

cancers of the breast, lung, and prostate, and in minimizing the

side

effects of chemotherapy. Shiitake and reishi mushrooms, also called

ganoderma mushrooms, exhibit anticancer properties as well, and are

used

by Orientals to enhance longevity. Animal research done in Japan

showed

a highly significant rate of tumor elimination in animals fed

extracts

of maitake, shiitake, and reishi mushrooms.

Complete Encyclopedia Of Natural Healing by Gary Null PhD, page 82

 

Besides its anti-tumor and immuno-modulatory properties, reishi also

helps counteract stress. The crude extract of reishi has been found

to

be more effective in fighting free radical damage than isolated,

synthetic compounds. reishi also contains bitter triterpenes. These

strengthen the circulatory and immune systems, tone the liver and

protect the body from physical stress. Triterpenes work as

adaptogenics,

antihypertensives and to control allergic reactions.

Treating Cancer With Herbs by Michael Tierra ND, page 166

 

Shiitake and reishi mushrooms will be magic because they help

prevent

cancer.

Asian Health Secrets by Letha Hadady DAc, page 477

 

The reishi and maitake mushrooms are two other fungi for which

researchers are cheering in their fight against cancer and viruses.

The Complete Book Of Alternative Nutrition by Selene Y Craig, page

225

 

Other Herbs -- Other herbal medicines have been identified as

potentially useful adjuncts to cancer treatment, including: pearl

barley

(Hordeum vulgare); reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum); shiitake

mushroom (Lentin-ula edodes); cauliflower (Brassica oleracea); wax

gourd

(Benincasa hispida); calendula (Calendula qfficinalis); chaparral

(Larrea divaricata and Larrea tridentata); white mulberry (Moms

alba);

Japanese pepper (Piperfutokadsura); thyme (Thymus serpyllum);

Chinese

cucumber (Tri-chosanthes kirilowii); and stinging nettle (Urtica

dioica).

Alternative Medicine by Burton Goldberg, page 612

 

The reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) has a sweet and warm energy,

is

both sedative and tonic, is a supreme deep immune system tonic, and

nourishes the spirit, essence, and vital energy. It has strong

anticarcinogenic properties and is rich in a number of complex

phyto-chemicals, including ergosterol, fumaric acid, aminoglucose,

and

man-nitol; coumarins; alkaloids; lactone; and various enzymes.

The Way Of Herbs by Michael Tierra, page 313

 

Finally, evidence has shown that reishi, shiitake, and maitake

mushrooms

can serve as formidable opponents of cancer cells.

Complete Encyclopedia Of Natural Healing by Gary Null PhD, page 72

 

If you have cancer, you should work with a knowledgeable physician

or

natural healer. As a cancer treatment, doses are much higher than

those

for pain control -- you will need to take about 10 grams of reishi

daily. But reishi is considered safe even at the highest levels;

there

is no known toxicity.

Earl Mindell's Supplement Bible by Earl Mindell RPh PhD, page 167

 

According to researchers at the National Cancer Center in Japan,

there

was complete tumor elimination in about 80% of cancer-induced

animals

fed extracts from maitake, shiitake, and reishi mushrooms. Compounds

in

each of these mushrooms increase the tumor-fighting activity of NK

cells

and improve antibody responses, but maitake seems to have the

strongest

and most consistent effect.

Alternative Medicine by Burton Goldberg, page 613

 

As with other medicinal mushrooms, this herb is rich in

polysaccharides

that increase white blood cells; it serves as a potent free radical

scavenger and generally exerts broad anticancer and antitumor

properties. Reishi contains the immune stimulating polysaccharide,

beta

D-glucan, which has been shown to be effective against sarcoma. The

polysaccharide stimulates macrophage activity to produce tumor-

necrosis

factor (TNF-a), together with cancer killing interleukins. In

another

study the polysaccharides (PS) from fresh fruiting bodies of G.

lucidum

(PS-G) were isolated and used to potentiate cytokine production by

human

mono-cytes-macrophages and T lymphocytes. Results demonstrated that

the

levels of interleukins (IL)-l beta, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-

alpha,

and IL-6 in macrophage cultures treated with PS-G (100

micrograms/ml)

were 5.1, 9.8 and 29 fold higher, respectively, than those of

untreated

controls. In addition, the release of interferon (IFN)- gamma from T

lymphocytes was also greatly promoted in the presence of PS-G (25-

100

micrograms/ml). Furthermore, these cytokine-containing mononuclear

cell-conditioned media (PSG-MNC-CM) suppressed the proliferation of

both

the HL-60 and the U937 leukemic cell lines. Further, a process of

DNA

labeling was able to induce cell death (apoptosis) only of cancer

cells.

 

Treating Cancer With Herbs by Michael Tierra ND, page 166

 

Two other types of medicinal fungi, which have received considerable

attention in the scientific community in the last few decades, are

the

reishi (pronounced REE-she) and shiitake (pronounced SHE-taw-key)

mushrooms. They are venerated throughout the Orient for their

marvelous

healing properties, especially in the treatment and prevention of

cancer. Laboratory and clinical studies done with both of them in

man

and beast alike have shown remarkable regression of malignant

tumors,

particularly through the injection method.

Encyclopedia Healing Herbs Spices by John Heinerman, page 243

 

Adding foods to the diet which contain significant amounts of the

trace

element germanium, which enhances the action of oxygen in the body.

Germanium foods and supplements are commonly used as cancer remedies

and

for immune restoration in general. Among the more concentrated food

and

herb sources: " turkey tails " and related shelf or punk mushrooms

that

grow on the sides of decaying trees; other mushrooms including

shiitake,

ling zhi or reishi (Ganoderma luddum), and champignon; garlic; the

herbs

Suma (Pfaffia paniculata), ginseng, and unrefined aloe vera juice;

chlorella micro-algae, and barley.

Healing With Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford, page 40

 

Medicinal mushrooms with immunomodulating activities have been

traditionally used as tonics in Traditional (TCM).

They

are now used in cancer treatments to counteract the toxic effects of

radiation and chemotherapy. Mushrooms used in cancer therapies are

generally processed into liquid or powder in order to obtain the

necessary potency. It takes about 15 pounds of reishi mushrooms to

produce 1 pound of the powdered concentrate. Medicinal mushrooms

make a

significant contribution to the healing process by enhancing and

stimulating the body's own immune system. This is a very important

factor in diseases like cancer and HIV, which have components unique

to

each individual. In my protocols for people with cancer, I always

include one or more medicinal mushroom extract products.

Descriptions of

some of the more frequently used mushrooms follow.

Herbal Medicine Healing Cancer by Donald R Yance Jr, page 155

 

It is believed, they are more accessible to the immune system cell

called the macrophage. Remember, these are nonspecific " Pac Man " -

like

immune cells that literally gobble up invaders. When the macrophage

becomes activated, it signals helper T cells to get to work. From

research in China and Japan, the immune cells being activated by

reishi

to kill tumor cells are primarily the macrophages and helper T

cells.

Healing Pets With Nature's Miracle Cures By Henry Pasternak DVM CVA,

page 114

 

Reishi calms the central nervous system, exerting a

blood-pressure-lowering effect beneficial to the heart. It is now

employed in China for treatment of autoimmune diseases and to calm

hypersensitivity. Like many other medicinal mushrooms, reishi

mushroom

can be used to treat cancer patients due to its ability to activate

NK

cells, macrophages, T-lymphocytes, and cytokines, all important

immune

system components. Kee Chang Huang reports that reishi " exerts a

synergistic effect with other anticancer chemothera-peutic agents or

radiotherapy, to augment the clinical therapeutic effect in the

treatment of cancer patients. "

The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook by Alan Keith Tillotson, page 191

 

reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) contains carbohydrates, fiber, amino

acids,

protein, steroids, triterpenes, lipids, alkaloids, polysaccharides,

glucoside, coumarin glycoside, volatile oil, vitamin B2

(riboflavin),

and ascorbic acid. It also contains the minerals calcium, zinc,

magnesium, copper, and germanium. Additionally, reishi contains

ganoderic acid, which is a free-radical scavenger, giving reishi

antioxidant powers. The polysaccharides in reishi mushrooms appear

to

activate a type of white blood cell known as a macrophage. These

cells

filter the blood, destroying cancer cells, viruses, bacteria, and

other

large particulate material. Macrophages also signal other white

blood

cells to seek out and destroy tumor cells.

Prescription For Dietary Wellness by Phyllis A Balch, page 168

 

Reishi is also being studied for its effects against arthritis,

bronchitis, asthma, acute hepatitis, diabetes, allergies, insomnia,

and

altitude sickness

The Encyclopedia Of Popular Herbs by Robert S McCaleb, page 335

 

reishi. Several species of ganoderma have traditionally been used by

the

Chinese to prevent or treat cancer of the esophagus and other

organs.

Studies show that certain steroidlike compounds in reishi can help

kill

liver cancer cells. reishi extracts have also been shown to boost

the

immunity of cancer patients.

Off The Shelf Natural Health How To Use Herbs And Nutrients To Stay

Well

By Mark Mayell, page 226

 

One study showed that reishi strongly inhibited the growth of

sarcoma

180, with an inhibition rate of 95.6 to 98.6 percent at an

interperitonial dosage of 20 mg/kg for ten days in mice.116 Another

study demonstrated that reishi polysaccharides significantly

inhibited

the proliferation of JTC-26 tumor cells, a human cancer-cell strain.

Ganodermic acids U through Z, which are six types of cytotoxic

triterpenes found in reishi, showed significant cytotox-icity on

hepatoma cells grown in vitro.

Herbal Medicine Healing Cancer by Donald R Yance Jr, page 156

 

Reishi mushroom has impressive antioxidant and anti-cancer benefits,

as

do shiitake and maitake mushrooms.

The Encyclopedia Of Popular Herbs by Robert S McCaleb, page 421

 

Medicinal Mushrooms: Especially maitake, reishi, shiitake and turkey

tail mushrooms. Maitake D- fraction has been shown to enhance the

effects of chemotherapy as well as having anticancer and immune

strengthening properties. New research shows maitake D-fraction also

has

apoptosis (cancer cell death) inducing properties. Planetary

formulas

Maitake Mushroom and reishi Mushroom Supreme have shown themselves

to be

very efficacious.

Treating Cancer With Herbs by Michael Tierra ND, page 374

 

Like the shiitake, reishi extract -- known as G. lucidum -- has

shown

immune-enhancing ability and may curb the growth of tumors,

according to

proponents. They also believe that reishis can help to fight a host

of

ailments, including high blood pressure, allergies, asthma, fatigue,

arthritis, high cholesterol, dizziness, liver problems and

congestion.

The Complete Book Of Alternative Nutrition by Selene Y Craig, page

225

 

Immune tonics such as reishi mushroom and astragalus can be given in

higher dosage during the early stages of disease or to prevent

recurrence. In the more advanced stages, tonics are also used but to

a

lesser extent, with greater emphasis on the use of eliminative, heat

clearing herbs. In the middle stages of cancer one combines

tonification

and elimination substances equally.

Treating Cancer With Herbs by Michael Tierra ND, page 117

 

Kelp, reishi, and St. John's wort may help protect against the

adverse

effects of x-ray radiation.

Prescription For Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A Balch CNC and

James F

Balch MD, page 730

 

Antitumor: Prevents or helps alleviate tumors. Examples: chaparral,

red

clover, astragalus, reishi,fu ling.

The Herbs Of Life by Lesley Tierra, page 137

 

Cancer and HIV/AIDS Foods: beans and legumes; blueberries; carrots;

cherries; cruciferous vegetables; flaxseeds; garlic; kelp; all leafy

greens; maitake, reishi, and shiitake mushrooms; millet; papaya;

peaches; red grapes; vegetables; soy foods; wheatgrass.

Prescription For Dietary Wellness by Phyllis A Balch, page 288

 

Herbal and nutritional therapies can make chemotherapy more

sensitive to

the particular cancer being treated. For example, bromelain and

quercetin are especially compatible with most chemotherapies used in

cases of breast, ovarian, and colon cancers, as well as leukemia and

most melanomas, while reishi, coriolus, astragalus, and Siberian

ginseng

work well with all chemotherapies for all types of cancers.

Herbal Medicine Healing Cancer by Donald R Yance Jr, page 281

 

The immune potentiating effects of the astragalus polysaccharide was

validated through research at the M.D. Anderson hospital in Houston,

Texas during the 1980's. No patentable drug resulted from this

research

because of the difficulty of patenting plant polysaccharides.

However,

both in China and Japan a wide range of anticancer herbs rich in

immune

potentiating polysaccharides are used including a variety of

medicinal

mushrooms such as ganoderma (reishi), lentinus (shiitake), grifola

(maitake) and coriolus ver-sicolor (turkey tails) and cordyceps

(dong

chong xia cao).

Treating Cancer With Herbs by Michael Tierra ND, page 77

 

Sabley said that reishi contains two major groups of organic

compounds:

Ganodermic acids (compounds with a structure similar to steroid

hormones) and polysaccharides (long chains of naturally occurring

sugar

molecules or carbohydrates). Many believe that polysaccharides,

commonly

found in mushrooms, seaweed and numerous plants, have immune-

enhancing

properties, possibly capable of treating some forms of cancer.

Attaining Medical Self Sufficiency An Informed Citizens Guide by

Duncan

Long, page 196

 

Popularized by the Chinese and Japanese, ganoderma, also known as

the

reishi mushroom, is a general energy stimulant that also possesses

cancer-fighting abilities. It is particularly effective when used

along

with astragalus and legustrum.

Complete Encyclopedia Of Natural Healing by Gary Null PhD, page 108<

p>

reishi: immune booster, cancer preventive, system balancer

Off The Shelf Natural Health How To Use Herbs And Nutrients To Stay

Well

By Mark Mayell, page 19

 

The beta-glucans lentinan, grifolan, schizophyllan and SSG are

available

in Japan. Lentinan and schizophyllan are approved in Japan as drugs

for

the treatment of cancer. … Non-edible mushrooms that are rich in

beta-glucans include the reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) and the

coriolus mushroom (Coriolus versico-lor).

PDR For Nutritional Supplements by Sheldon Saul Hendle and David

Rorvik,

page 316

 

Various types of mushrooms can be good sources of vitamin D, Bi

(thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), minerals, and amino acids.

They have the ability to enhance the body's immune system T cells

that

seek and destroy cancer cells. Shiitake, zhu ling, enoki, reishi,

and

maitake mushrooms have all been reported to have anti-cancer

properties.

 

Prescription For Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A Balch CNC and

James F

Balch MD, page 253

 

reishi MUSHROOM (Canoderma lucidum) Ling zhi All types of cancers

when

there is qi weakness, blood deficiency, low and/or threatened immune

system, dampness, nervousness and anxiety. It is also used to offset

the

adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Dose: 9-30g

Treating Cancer With Herbs by Michael Tierra ND, page 81

 

Ling zhi, the famous reishi mushroom, is not known for its sweet

flavor

so much as for its cleansing, anticancer effects. Although the

mushroom

itself is not sweet, the instant cube is.

Asian Health Secrets by Letha Hadady DAc, page 52

 

 

Reishi and cardiovascular disease

Reishi contains several constituents, including sterols, coumarin,

mannitol, polysaccharides, and triter-penoids called ganoderic

acids.

Ganoderic acids may lower blood pressure as well as decrease low-

density

lipoprotein and triglyceride levels. These specific triterpenoids

also

help reduce blood platelets from sticking together -- an important

factor in lowering the risk for coronary artery disease. While human

research demonstrates some efficacy for the herb in treating

altitude

sickness and chronic hepatitis B, these uses still need to be

confirmed.

 

The Natural Pharmacy by Schuyler W Lininger, page 456

Because there is some evidence that reishi extract lowers

cholesterol

and blood pressure and reduces platelet stickiness, another

cardiovascular risk factor, it is being studied for its potential in

the

treatment of heart disease.

Off The Shelf Natural Health How To Use Herbs And Nutrients To Stay

Well

By Mark Mayell, page 56

 

This mushroom is prized in Japan and China, where its rejuvenating

qualities have been known for over 4,000 years. Scientific studies

have

confirmed its medicinal properties. Published studies in humans show

that it lowers blood pressure and reduces " bad " LDL cholesterol and

triglycerides, another type of blood fat. It also reduces the

tendency

of blood platelets to accumulate, thus making blood less likely to

clot

and provoke heart attacks and strokes. Since the raw mushroom is

woody

and inedible, the traditional method of preparing reishi is to make

a

tea by simmering it for a long time in water. Fortunately, it is

also

available in a powdered form. Typical dosage: 1,000 to 9,000

milligrams

in capsules per day,- or 50 to 75 milligrams in concentrated

capsules

three times per day.

The Herbal Drugstore by Linda B White MD, page 327

 

Chinese herbal medicine physicians regard the reishi mushroom as an

" elixir of immortality. " Research confirms that reishi is an

effective

cardiotonic. In a study of 54 people (average age, 58.6) whose blood

pressure was over 140/90 and who were unresponsive to hypertension

medication, those taking reishi mushroom extract in tablet form

three

times a day for four weeks experienced a significant drop in their

blood

pressure compared to the control group. The blood pressure of all

the

test subjects fell below 140/90.

Heart Disease by Burton Goldberg, page 205

 

Today, both shiitake and reishi mushrooms are used to treat a

variety of

disorders and to promote vitality. They are used to prevent high

blood

pressure and heart disease, to control and lower cholesterol, to

build

resistance to disease, and to treat fatigue and viral infections.

They

are also known to have anti-tumor properties valuable in treating

cancer.

Prescription For Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A Balch CNC and

James F

Balch MD, page 80

 

Reduces excessive levels of cholesterol in the blood, thus improving

circulation.

Miracle Medicine Herbs by Richard M Lucas, page 9

 

reishi has been shown in several studies to lower cholesterol

levels,

helping to prevent atherosclerotic changes in the blood vessel walls

(reported in Huang, 1999).

The One Earth Herbal Sourcebook by Alan Keith Tillotson, page 191

 

Today, both shiitake and reishi mushrooms are used to treat a

variety of

disorders and to promote vitality. They are used to prevent high

blood

pressure and heart disease, to control and lower cholesterol, to

build

resistance to disease, and to treat fatigue and viral infections.

They

are also known to have anti-tumor properties valuable in treating

cancer.

The A-to-Z Guide to Supplements by James F Balch MD, page 157

 

Reishi is a variety of mushroom that also fights infection and has

traditionally been used to treat heart disease and lower blood

pressure

and cholesterol.

Alternative Medicine by Burton Goldberg, page 192

 

High Blood Pressure hawthorn berries ginkgo leaf, reishi dandelion,

echinacea, chamomile, plantain

The Herbs Of Life by Lesley Tierra, page 231

 

Clinical studies at the Tongji Medical University, Wuhan, China,

involving 15 healthy volunteers and 33 patients with atherosclerotic

disease suggest that the mushroom may offer help for other diseases

as

well and the team reported that reishi also inhibited platelet

aggregation.

Attaining Medical Self Sufficiency An Informed Citizens Guide by

Duncan

Long, page 197

 

Reishi (Ganoderma luciduni). Sixteenth-century Ming Dynasty texts

say

that this marvelous Chinese medicinal mushroom " mends the heart. "

And my

good friend, pharmacognosist (natural product pharmacist) Albert

Leung,

Ph.D., says in his Better Health with (Mostly) Chinese Herbs and

Food

that reishi has considerable value in preventing and treating

arrhythmia.

The Green Pharmacy by James A Duke PnD, page 121

 

This medicinal mushroom has long been used in China as a general

heart

tonic, as well as for a host of other conditions. If your

arrhythmias

are caused by stress, reishi is a good choice to add to your routine

because it acts on the many body systems that can be affected by

stress.

Typical dosage: up to five 420-milligram capsules per day,- or up to

three 1,000-milligram tablets up to three times per day.

The Herbal Drugstore by Linda B White MD, page 155

 

Morel, reishi, shiitake, and maitake are mushrooms that were touted

by

the ancient Chinese as superior medicines that give eternal youth

and

longevity. They prevent high blood pressure and heart disease, lower

cholesterol, prevent fatigue and viral infections, and much more.

They

are found in supplement form as well as fresh.

Prescription For Nutritional Healing by Phyllis A Balch CNC and

James F

Balch MD, page 138

 

Since heart disease is America's most serious health risk, any

program

designed to maintain and optimize health must start with protecting

the

cardiovascular system. This means reducing artery-clogging

cholesterol,

preventing the oxidation of blood fats, and maintaining a strong,

steady

heart beat. The best-researched herbal remedies for reducing blood

fat

levels (cholesterol) and for obtaining other cardiovascular benefits

include garlic, hawthorn, ginger, horse chestnut, bilberry, reishi

mushroom, and the Ayurvedic herb

The Encyclopedia Of Popular Herbs by Robert S McCaleb, page 12

 

Reishi is a heart tonic, like hawthorn and ginkgo. It improves blood

flow to the heart, reduces coronary demand for oxygen and helps ease

the

chest pain of angina. I make reishi tea using three to six teaspoons

of

dried herb per cup of boiling water.

The Green Pharmacy by James A Duke PnD, page 121

 

Reishi is a type of mushroom, contains several constituents that

seem to

help decrease triglyceride levels based on preliminary reports.

The Natural Pharmacy by Schuyler W Lininger, page 88

 

Perhaps one of the reasons the Chinese regard mushrooms as spirit

medicine is the claim found in the oldest recorded botanical

monograph

on another powerful Chinese medicinal mushroom, the ling zhi or

reishi

mushroom (Canoderma lucidum). The Chinese claimed that it made the

body

lighter, which may refer to its ability to reduce cholesterol and

blood

lipid levels. Shiitake mushrooms have immune-potentiating properties

similar to those of reishi mushrooms.

The Way Of Chinese Herbs by Michael Tierra LAc OMD, page 431

 

 

Reishi as an antihistamine

Japanese researchers have also found that reishi acts as an

antihistamine, making it useful for treating allergies. Lanostan, a

compound found in reishi, appears to control the release of

transmitting

chemicals in the body, thereby inhibiting the release of histamine.

Since reishi also promotes the adrenal function and immune reaction,

it

has added effectiveness in controlling the body's reaction to an

allergen.

Attaining Medical Self Sufficiency An Informed Citizens Guide by

Duncan

Long, page 196

reishi is a true adaptagen, enhancing health and normal functions of

the

body. For example, while it increases some components of the immune

response to cancers, it also inhibits pathological immune functions

in

autoimmune diseases. It has also been reported to reduce the

histamine

release associated with allergic reactions, and even to help prevent

life threatening ana-phylactic reactions.

Healing Pets With Nature's Miracle Cures By Henry Pasternak DVM CVA,

page 112

 

 

JoAnn Guest

mrsjo-

www.geocities.com/mrsjoguest/

[Guest guest]

I contracted the EBVirus in 2004. A friend and herbalist made several

suggestions, one being the Reishi Mushroom. It is probably the least expensive

mushroom. I appreciate having this information which gives the WHY of Reishi

and how it works.

I no longer have the symptoms that plagued me for 2 years ( I was 59 yers old

and age makes the EBV difficult to shake off). Using Armour Thyroid, suggested

by my dentist, ended Chronic Fatigue in 3 days...but I had low body temperature

and other symptoms of a sluggish thyroid...Lynn Koiner

 

 

-

JoAnn Guest

Wednesday, April 25, 2007 9:55 AM

Studies show reishi mushrooms benefit

people stricken with Cancer

Thursday, January 25, 2007 by: Dani Veracity

 

http://www.newstarget.com/021498.html

 

Hailed in ancient Eastern medicine as the " mushroom of immortality "

and the " medicine of kings, " you'd expect reishi to offer you some

pretty astounding health benefits, right? Your assumptions are

correct. Reishi may be able to boost your immune system, fight

cancer, ward off heart disease, calm your nerves and relieve both

allergies and inflammation.

" Reishi indeed sounds like a cure-all, " writes Rebecca Wood in her

book " New Whole Foods Encyclopedia. " She goes on to explain reishi's

wide range of uses

 

Besides cancer, reishi can help and treat another of America's top

killers: cardiovascular disease. The protection reishi offers

against heart disease and stroke is truly remarkable because it

helps prevent so many different risk factors, due to its high

content of heart-saving substances like sterols, ganoderic acids,

coumarin, mannitol and polysaccharides. Reishi's wide range of medicinal

applications

Health Benefits: Reishi indeed sounds like a cure-all. An

immunostimulant, it is helpful for people with AIDS, leaky gut

syndrome,

Epstein-Barr, chronic bronchitis, and other infectious viruses. It

is

used as an aid to sleep; as a diuretic; as a laxative; and to lower

cholesterol. Reishi mushrooms are antioxidants and liver

protectants..