Reishi Mushrooms: the Secret to Longevity and Wellness

Author: mackshepperson | Posted: 19.04.2012

The Ganoderma lucidum is venerated in ancient oriental medicine because of its amazing properties that fight the very diseases that claim the lives of millions worldwide. Its original Chinese name is lingzhi (靈芝), which has a variety of meanings—"divine mushroom" and "immortality plant" among them. This term was loaned in the Japanese language as reishi (霊芝), the name by which it is widely known throughout the world. However, its preferred Japanese name is mannentake (万年茸), meaning the "10,000-year mushroom."

It has been claimed that Reishi mushrooms promote longevity, a claim which has fascinated modern researchers. The use of Reishi may explain the existence of portraits of Oriental philosophers looking extremely old yet standing upright without the aid of a cane. After much careful research by modern scientists, it appears that the mushroom contains substances that can fight the very processes that contribute to deadly diseases like urinary tract infections and cancers. It has also been found to protect the liver from infection, too.

The ganoderic acids in this mushroom are triterpenoids, which are compounds that fight cancer cells. Ganoderic acids can also fight liver infections. Betulinic acid is a triterpenoid that is also present in the chaga mushroom. Additionally, betulinic acid has been found to contain properties that can potentially become an alternative to chemotherapy. The medical community foresees that there may come a time when people may be treated for cancer without the side effects of radiation therapy.

The Ganoderma lucidum also contains cytokines and polysaccharides that can fight cancer cells with such power that tumors cannot grow or spread the cancer cells elsewhere in the body. Medical practitioners today prescribe these extracts in Reishi mushroom capsule form for cancer management along with chemotherapy. This has so far helped people prolong their lives and survive cancer.

The Ganoderma lucidum also contains ACE (angiotensin-converting-enzyme), inhibitors that can decrease blood pressure. Taking Reishi mushroom capsules can help people—especially those past their prime—reduce their risk for developing hypertension and heart disease. Apparently, the reduction of these disorders can significantly enhance longevity. Moreover, the intake of Reishi mushroom capsules has also been known to reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Another beneficial effect of Reishi mushroom intake is that it inhibits the production of platelets. Cancer cells destroy other cells and tissues, prompting the body to produce platelets to facilitate healing. However, these cancer cells use the platelets as vessels for further infections. Reishi mushroom capsules can reduce the production of platelets to keep cancer from spreading. For readers who want to learn more MedicinalMushrooms.net contains more information on Reishi mushrooms.

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