Description of the genus of mushrooms and its main varieties
Ganoderma is the name given to a whole genus of fungi that parasitize trees. There is not much information about representatives of this genus, but two species belonging to it are known.
They are used for medical purposes by adherents of traditional medicine, and are studied by mycologists from different countries in order to find a universal natural cure for oncology, immune deficiencies, bronchitis, tracheitis, bronchial asthma and other life-threatening diseases. It is these mushrooms that you need to learn more about.
Ganoderma flat
The flat polypore is a member of the genus Ganoderma with perennial fruiting bodies that usually grow close together, forming entire layers on tree trunks. The cap of Ganoderma reaches 40 centimeters in width, and its surface is covered with a matte crust. The fruit body and cap on the inside are often covered with a brownish powder - spores.
The hymenophore of the flat tinder fungus is light, the shade varies between milky and beige. But with weak physical impact it darkens. This feature gave Ganoderma the English name artist's conk.
Ganoderma flata is used in Chinese medical practice. It is also used by lovers of alternative painting. As mentioned earlier, you can draw on the hymenophore of the tinder fungus. And once the image is completed, you will not be able to touch its surface. To preserve the resulting picture, the mushroom is dried.
Ganoderma lacquered
The varnished tinder fungus has annual fruiting bodies of the cap-peduncle type. The cap has an ovoid shape, smooth skin with pronounced growth rings, with variable color. It ranges from dark purple to reddish gray depending on temperatures and substrate quality.
The flesh of the tinder fungus is dense and has a wood-like texture. It has neither taste nor smell. By the way, this is the only ganoderma in nature that has not only a fruiting body, but also a stalk. The leg reaches 25 centimeters in length, so it is almost impossible not to notice the varnished tinder fungus on a tree.
In the 21st century, Chinese doctors actively use lacquered ganoderma to eliminate the consequences of allergic reactions in all categories of patients.
Ganoderma lucidum is used extensively in biochemistry. High quality triterpenes and polysaccharides are produced from its tissues. They also determine the pharmaceutical role of the mushroom. It is used in folk medicine and official practice to stabilize the body and support the immune system. That is why many scientific works are devoted to the mushroom.
Ganoderma preparations
Preparations prepared from Ganoderma are presented in the form:
- liquid extracts (aqueous, alcoholic, oily) and in powder form: • from the fruiting body of the fungus • from the whole plant • from fungal spores
- chopped dry mushroom
- Ganoderma extracts with various additives of other biologically active plants, for example, with an extract from ginseng roots.
- mushroom spore oil
- Izganoderm tinctures
- syrups from the body and fungal spores
- teas with Ganoderma extract or crushed mushroom: • green • black • herbal • tea from Ganoderma spores without additives.
- coffee with ganoderma extract
Ganoderma preparations are available in the form:
- capsules
- tablets
- briquettes
- bags
- bottles
- regular powder
- granulated powder
Need to know:
- The quality and effectiveness of a product made from Ganoderma depends on the conditions in which the mushroom was grown.
- Each supplier has its own mushroom processing methods and release forms.
- A simple mushroom, crushed or cut into pieces , does not fully release its biologically active substances, since it is not completely absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.
- The most effective are extracts that contain up to 40-50% polysaccharides.
- You need to have information about the company that manufactures the product and the supplier that supplies this product to the market. This will protect the buyer from counterfeits.
Research on the effectiveness of Ganoderma
The first evidence of the use of Ganoderma in medicine dates back to the reign of the Chinese imperial Ming dynasty. Back then, tinder was used to treat the heart. But official research began in the second half of the 20th century. It was then that they learned to grow Ganoderma in artificial conditions, and also learned that it helps supply body tissues with oxygen. This property was the first to be studied.
At first, research was carried out exclusively in eastern countries, where the habitat of Ganoderma is located. But later European specialists also got involved.
In the eighties of the 20th century, in China they began to study the effect of ganoderma extract on allergies and bronchitis. Positive changes were observed in approximately 60% of patients during 1973-1974. Tests related to cardiology and ganoderma showed more impressive results. Up to 93.3% of patients recovered.
Stamets's "Growing Gourmet and Medicinal Mushrooms" paper, supported by Oxford in 1993, categorized Ganoderma as edible and medicinal.
But the main scientific work related to Ganoderma concerns its effect on the formation of cancer or its treatment. Thus, the American Cancer Institute found that the substance lanostane contained in tinder fungus temporarily inhibits the development of cancer cells.
And shortly before this, in 1980, the same research center, in collaboration with the Japanese University of Shiuzoka, found that Ganoderma contains a powerful glucan. It promotes immune modulation, so it can significantly strengthen the body's defense systems. Including the body of a cancer patient.
Benefits of a unique mushroom
- Effectively eliminates excess weight at home without changing your usual lifestyle or stressing the body (you can lose up to 20 kg within a month).
- Breaks down fat, starting from the moment of the first intake, promotes the absorption of only useful elements from food).
- Stabilizes the condition of the circulatory and endocrine systems.
- Has a pronounced antitumor effect.
- Quickly restores the body weakened by serious diseases and viral infections, preventing their reappearance.
- It is a means of prevention: reduces the risk of diabetes, atherosclerosis, obesity, etc.
- Strengthens the body, rejuvenates, removes toxins and cholesterol.
- Improves brain function.
- Helps with nervous exhaustion.
- Promotes healthy, sound sleep.
- Has an antiallergic effect.
Compound
In China and Japan, Ganoderma has gained a reputation as a nutraceutical. This means that the properties of tinder fungus are equal to those demonstrated by real medicines. Russian scientists assess the quality of the composition of the product more modestly. But denying its general benefits for the body is at least pointless.
Proteins contain all the amides and amino acids necessary for the treatment processes. Ganoderma fats consist of weak fatty acids, so the mushroom is suitable for those who are losing weight or people with excess body weight.
Among the active polysaccharides of Ganoderma are triterpenoids known as ganoderic acids. Ganoderma also contains vitamins and minerals necessary for human immunity.
The mushroom contains concentrated B3, B5, D and C. And among the most common minerals in 100 grams of mushroom are selenium, calcium, phosphorus and iron. That is why medicinal Ganoderma can be used to replace vitamin tablets prescribed by doctors.
Reishi mushroom: method of use
Preparations containing Ganoderma are used primarily to improve human health. Reishi mushroom has a lot of beneficial properties for the body; it is even believed that regular consumption of the mushroom can increase human life expectancy. Numerous supplements that contain Ganoderma have different spectrums of indications.
But these drugs are not used as medications, since there are no completed studies on its action yet, and the effectiveness of the fungus has not been fully studied.
It is possible that it has a positive effect, but it is still premature to consider these drugs a panacea for all diseases. In addition, the specific doses that lead to improved functioning of the body are unknown.
Medicinal and beneficial properties
This parasitic fungus has many beneficial properties. For more than seven centuries of using tinder fungus, people have discovered almost all areas of its use related to medicine. Currently, the facts about the pharmaceutical characteristics of Ganoderma are as follows:
- When taking Ganoderma mushroom, regression of malignant and benign tumors is observed;
- Has a general stimulating effect on the human immune system;
- The product strengthens memory and facilitates life during intellectual overload;
- Polypore strengthens blood vessels and tones blood flow;
- Ganoderma prevents oxygen starvation and accelerates the transfer of air microparticles in the blood;
- Reduces discomfort during menstruation;
- Relieves spasms of smooth muscles in the bronchi and lungs during colds, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections;
- Ganoderma restores the balance of intestinal microflora;
- Promotes coughing or expectoration;
- Normalizes lipid metabolism in the body, therefore helps with weight loss;
- The pulp absorbs toxins, therefore facilitating metabolic processes in case of poisoning and treatment for them in general;
- Ganoderma has a beneficial effect on patients with epilepsy; there are even cases of cure;
- Strengthens the myocardium and reduces glucose levels;
- Reduces cholesterol levels and maintains proper blood pressure;
- Stimulates liver function, even if it is damaged by disease or alcohol;
- It can be used in the treatment of allergies - after the correct course of administration, the production of antibodies is blocked;
- In a year or two of regular use of the mushroom, serious pulmonary diseases can be cured.
How does this remedy work?
Once in the stomach, Ganoderma begins to act immediately. The high protein content (98%) allows you to quickly satisfy your hunger and saturate the body with useful substances and speed up metabolism. At the same time, muscle mass does not change. Fiber, which the mushroom is rich in, also speeds up the metabolic process and helps normalize weight. Being a source of vitamins and minerals, it strengthens the immune system and facilitates the process of restructuring the body when losing weight.
With the Ganoderma mushroom, you will lose weight using your body’s own strength, without harming your health.
Contraindications, side effects and possible harm
There are quite a few contraindications to the use of Ganoderma. It should not be used in any trimester of pregnancy, or during breastfeeding. An excess of substances from the chemical composition can cause malformations in both the fetus and the newborn, so the risks are inappropriate, even if the mother urgently needs the mushroom.
The only compromise option is to use tinder fungus and switch to artificial formula feeding. But this action should be coordinated in advance with a pediatrician or children's allergist.
A strict taboo on the use of tinder fungus appears if a person has undergone an organ transplant or is being treated with immunosuppressive drugs.
Also, Ganoderma is not prescribed to children under 18 years of age or to people suffering from individual intolerance to this fungus. Therefore, before taking any of the Ganoderma products, you need to undergo allergy tests.
Some risks are associated with the fact that unscrupulous sellers sell counterfeit medicinal mushrooms. Therefore, you can only purchase exotic tinder fungi from trusted dealers. And even better - in official networks that distribute alternative medicine.
Side effects from the use of Ganoderma occur rarely, in no more than 2% of cases. The most serious complaints of patients are related to allergic skin reactions, problems with digestion of food, or severe dizziness. You can avoid all negative consequences if you follow the rules for using the mushroom.
For weight loss
Ganoderma for weight loss will help in any case, even if obesity is caused by hormonal imbalances, diabetes or other diseases.
Ganoderma for weight loss works as follows:
- swelling is eliminated by removing excess fluid from the body;
- a feeling of fullness comes after eating a small portion of food;
- when using Ganoderma decoction or tea, fat cells are absorbed;
- metabolic processes improve;
- activity appears, a surge of strength appears;
- Ganoderma improves the condition of the skin, hair, and nails.
Reishi mushroom for weight loss helps not only to lose excess weight, but also to maintain the result. After the full course, the weight does not return. The action continues and the fat is not absorbed by the body.
If you use Ganoderma for weight loss, then you should not expect quick results. First, the body is cleansed of toxins and other harmful substances. When using Reishi mushroom, at first you may experience skin rashes and headaches. This is a common occurrence during medical therapy and will go away over time.
During treatment, beneficial properties and contraindications are taken into account. Lingzhi mushroom should not be used in any form during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is also not given to children under seven years of age. Treatment should not be given to patients with blood diseases.
Areas and methods of using Ganoderma
The areas of application of Ganoderma are not limited to medicine alone: the mushroom is used for weight loss and to improve skin condition. It is also used to make coffee drinks, tea and other products that help strengthen the immune system and recover from diseases.
It is worth understanding when and why this medicinal tinder is used.
The role of the mushroom in medicine
Some pharmaceutical companies distribute Ganoderma mushroom in the form of capsules for oral use. But doctors do not recommend taking such medications. It is almost never known where the manufacturer got this medicinal parasitic polypore.
It remains a mystery whether it is a tinder fungus at all. Therefore, for treatment, they buy ordinary dried raw materials or ready-made powder for brewing themselves. From it you can prepare a classic tincture, decoction or alcohol infusion:
The classic tincture is created from a spoon of Ganoderma lucidum per 300 milliliters of warm boiled water, suitable for drinking. The liquid is poured into a glass and cooled under the lid for half an hour or 15 minutes - it all depends on the temperature of the water. The tincture is added in small quantities to any drink.
To create a decoction, two teaspoons of mushroom powder are mixed with 650-750 milliliters of drinking water. All this is simmered over low heat and then cooked for two hours. It is important to strain the finished broth. They drink it approximately 300 milliliters at a time three times a day. This should be done half an hour before meals.
A tablespoon of ground dried mushroom and 500 milliliters of vodka or 70% alcohol are the main components of an alcohol tincture of the ganoderma mushroom. The liquid must be sealed in a glass container and infused for 45 days in a darkened room. A spoonful of infusion is thoroughly diluted with water and drunk in the morning on an empty stomach.
Tinder for weight loss
Ganoderma, processed into a full-fledged medicine, improves fat metabolism, so it is often included in diets as a supporting agent. The application schedule depends on the form of release of the product. So, capsules can be used three times a day, shortly before main meals. It is important that the last appointment occurs no later than 16:00.
Drops containing polypore extract must be diluted in warm drinking water. One tablespoon of Ganoderma should contain up to 300 milliliters of liquid, which is approximately equal to one large glass. The product must be taken twice a day. Morning time is not standardized, but the evening reception is carried out strictly until 18:00.
The tinder fungus powder is mixed in 200 milliliters of water; this dosage is enough to dissolve one sachet. The appointment should be two times. If the medicinal mushroom powder is not packaged in portions, use no more than one heaped teaspoon. With this model of use, up to seven extra kilograms will come off in a month.
Remember that exceeding the permitted dosage of powdered ganoderma will not speed up the weight loss process, but will slow down and complicate it. Also, during a diet using tinder fungus, you need to follow some fundamentally important rules:
- Do not use other drugs that affect fat metabolism in parallel with Ganoderma;
- Reduce the amount of fats and carbohydrates in your diet;
- Minimize the amount of tea and coffee drinks in your diet;
- Completely avoid alcohol-containing medications or alcohol during the weight loss period;
- Drink plenty of clean water to ensure the effect is evident, drink purchased mineral water.
Application in cosmetology
Products containing ganoderma are widely used in the field of cosmetology. The processed pulp of this mushroom is often included in skin care cosmetics, moisturizes the skin and does not injure it in any way.
Preparations with tinder fungus are suitable for all skin types, because they contain not only mushrooms, but also anti-allergenic components. The creators of cosmetics note that the mushroom controls the aging process, normalizes the flow of lymph and blood, and has a slight tightening effect. This is why tinder is valued in the Korean cosmetics industry, where “natural youth” is paramount.
Coffee and tea on mushroom
There are still no clear opinions about whether Ganoderma can be used in cooking. It is only known that food products made from Ganoderma are not sold even in eastern countries - the historical homeland of the tinder fungus. But mushroom tea and coffee deserve popularity.
It cannot be said that they have a very pleasant taste, but with their effectiveness in the treatment of colds, the drinks are quite suitable for the prevention of heart pain or stress. At least that's what the manufacturers say.
But coffee based on this tinder fungus is the most often criticized. Of course, some people note the wonderful taste of the drinks and the sudden bursts of strength after using them. Mostly, people write that they developed side effects: stomach pain, nausea, skin rashes. But tea is almost never criticized.
It is recommended to use it as an auxiliary element of the diet. It reduces weight slightly, however, when drinking tea regularly, the lack of food has almost no effect on the daily routine, vigor and psychological state of the person losing weight.
Research[edit | edit code]
A small-scale and highly questionable study[1] was conducted at the Italian University of Pavia. Participants in the experiment were 7 amateur cyclists aged 30 to 40 years. The study took place in two stages, each lasting 3 months.
The athletes initially took a placebo and then supplemented with Cordyceps sinensis and Ganoderma lucidum. At the end of each stage, the cyclists took part in a race of 85 kilometers. Cordyceps sinensis was taken three capsules daily, each capsule containing 445 mg of the active substance, as well as one third of the polysaccharides and a small amount of adenosine. An adenosine analogue, cordycepin, was also added to the capsules. 3 days before the race, the dosage was increased to 6 capsules daily.
Previous studies in cyclists have shown that Cordyceps sinensis had no effect on oxygen consumption or endurance in regular athletes. However, this supplement has been effective in increasing endurance in men over 50 years of age. Simultaneously with the course of Cordyceps sinensis, athletes took 2 capsules of Ganoderma lucidum extract. Each capsule contained 390 mg of active ingredient. One third of the polysaccharides and a small amount of triterpene were also added to the capsule.
During the study, it became clear that the participants in the experiment differed in their level of physical fitness. Two athletes turned out to be more resilient than the other five. During the placebo course, saliva testing before and after the race of the more endurance athletes showed no change in testosterone levels, and their cortisol levels dropped after the race, indicating good physical condition. Taking dietary supplements Cordyceps sinensis and Ganoderma lucidum led to an increase in testosterone levels in trained athletes.
The other five showed decreased testosterone levels and increased cortisol levels after the race during the placebo course, indicating that they were close to overtraining. The course of Cordyceps sinensis and Ganoderma lucidum increased their testosterone levels before and after the race to values exceeding the statistical error, and also acted as an inhibitor of cortisol levels after the race, that is, it did not allow it to increase.
The results of the experiment indicate that the intake of Cordyceps sinensis and Ganoderma lucidum may be justified for increasing endurance in cyclic sports. However, Italian scientists emphasize that deeper conclusions can only be drawn after a large-scale study involving athletes from different sports. Scientists also emphasized special interest in the possible study of the effect of Cordyceps sinensis and Ganoderma lucidum on inflammatory processes in tissues, since all fungi in general are known for their positive effect on human immunity.
Is it worth buying and what is the cost?
As mentioned earlier, purchasing a mushroom from an unscrupulous seller can lead to poisoning or allergies. Therefore, if you are unsure about the supplier, growing location or sanitary conditions, refuse to purchase. Even if you are satisfied with everything, the price may disappoint.
A Ganoderma course designed for a minimum number of doses - that is, six - will cost one and a half thousand rubles or more, excluding delivery. But the benefits of a truly high-quality polypore will pay off with a rapid improvement in the health status of even a seriously ill patient. Has Ganoderma helped you?
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