Ganoderma lucidum

What is Ganoderma lucidum?

The Ganoderma lucidum, also known as lingzhi, is a fungus that grows in various hot and humid locations in Asia

Ling Zhi is a mushroom, which tastes extremely bitter and has a very hard consistency.

In Japan the mushroom is known as Reishi, in Korea as Yoengji and in Vietnam it is called Linh Chi.

History and origin of Ganoderma Lucidum

Ganoderma Lucidum, has been used in traditional chinese medicine for over 2000 years. and still plays a major role in TCM today.

The effect of the mushroom is already mentioned in China’s most famous drug book, the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing. In addition, the mushroom is classified in this book as the highest medicinal plant of all, it even comes before ginseng.

Ingredients and composition of Ganoderma lucidum

It contains over 65% fiber and only 15% protein, 1.7% sugar and 3.5% fat. So far, over 400 bioactive substances have been detected in Ling Zhi or Reishi. Among them are 150 triterpeins, which are supposed to be medically relevant and are responsible for the bitter taste.

It also contains: 100 different polysaccharides, Nucleotides, Sterols, Amino acids, Bioactive proteins, Fatty acids, Vitamins,
Natural minerals (including a lot of iron)

Benefits of Ganoderma lucidum

  • Boost the Immune System
  • Anti-Cancer Properties
  • Could Fight Fatigue and Depression
  • Heart Health
  • Blood Sugar Control
  • Antioxidant Status

Status of Ganoderma lucidum in EU Novel food catalogue

This product was on the market as a food or food ingredient and consumed to a significant degree before 15 May 1997. Thus its access to the market is not subject to the Novel Food Regulation (EU) 2015/2283.