Reishi

A genus of 50 species of saprophytic bracket fungi, which occur in most regions, especially the tropics. They obtain their nutrients from wood, growing either on dead trees or on living specimens, causing serious heart rot. Wood-decaying fungi play an important role in forest ecosystems. Ganoderma lucidum grows at the base of oaks and other deciduous trees, and is cultivated in China for the herb trade. It is not palatable as a vegetable but is one of the most important Taoist longevity herbs, much valued by early Chinese emperors, including the Yellow Emperor, legendary founder of traditional Chinese medicine, who lived c.2500BCE. Scientific research has shown that it contains substances, that may be of value in treating cancer, virus infections, and allergies; new drugs are being developed from the spores.

Bracket fungus bearing a large, stalked, fan-shaped, fruiting body (toadstool), with a shiny upper surface, zoned yellow to dark red. Rust-colored spores are released from the undersurface in summer.


Common Name:
Reishi
Other Names:
Laquered Bracket Fungus
Botanical Name:
Ganoderma lucidum
Genus:
Ganoderma
Family:
Polyporaceae
Native Location:
Warm and temperate regions
Cultivation:
On living or dead wood of deciduous trees, often Quercus spp. (See, oak), often near the base.
Propagation:
By spores.
Harvest:
Fungi are collected when mature and sun-dried for use in syrups, powders, tablets, and tinctures.
Height:
15-30cm (6-12in)
Width:
15-30cm (6-12in)
Hardiness:
Z4-10
Parts Used:
Whole plant (ling zhi).
Properties:
A tonic, sedative herb that is expectorant, lowers blood sugar and cholesterol levels, controls coughing, relieves pain, and stimulates the immune system. It improves heart and liver function, and has anti-allergenic, antiviral, and anti-bacterial effects.
Medicinal Uses:
Internally for bronchitis, asthma, liver disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, palpitations, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, nervous disorders, insomnia, and debility.
Culinary Uses:
Extracts are made into a tonic candy.
Bibliography:
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Bown Copyright ©: 1995, 2005 Dorling Kindersley Limited, pp.219-220