Reishi: Positive Cancer Treatments

( Translated from Japanese periodical, Chinese Traditional Medicine Part

III, Page 12 - 23, ISBN4-88580-053-6 C-0077)

A doctor once said, "Cancer is a serious disease, but it is not fatal. Patients have a
good chance to recover." This statement sounds consolatory but basing on our recent
research data, it can very well be true.

The prestigious Japanese doctor, Dr Fukumi Morishige, M.D.,Phd., currently

involved in the research of reishi's role in cancer control, is a researcher at the Linus
Pauling Institute of Science & Medicine - an American institute that had been
awarded the most Nobel prizes. He also occupies an important role in Europe's
medical fields as well, and is the only Japanese authority employed by the
international cancer group. The following is his speech and case reports on reishi.

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I have been a surgeon for 37 years and have performed numerous operations. I have
a keen interest in surgery especially when I was young but gradually questions
began to appear. I always feel that the ideal would be to induce the natural immunity
power within oneself.

Being a surgeon, I had countless occasions to encounter cancer cases; however, the
key to cancer controls is in its early detection, which is easier said than done. About
one in a hundred would be considered a good percentage.

Nowadays, regular physical check-ups is the trend and this is good practice, but we
have to realize that one cannot let our guards down just because cancer was not
detected at the time of check-ups. People often suspect the physicians of
misdiagnosing when cancer was detected at a later date. This notion is incorrect as
there are many undiscovered cases even with monthly check-ups. For example, in
the case of penetrance type stomach cancer, it is one of the most difficult to detect
and these account for about 25% of the cases, therefore, prevention is equally
important.
It is better to employ preventive measures in the case of cancer but there are no set
methods. One can always rely on dietary control, but here again it is not a prescribed
regiment. The best method at the present is reishi. I do not know of its amazing
effects until after I have used it and I am truly surprised. During my practice, I have
obtained outstanding results using reishi either as preventive measures or
during the course of treatments. Earlier on, I have come across patients and their
relatives praising the merits of reishi. But being a medical person, I have thought
that it might have a slight effect on certain chronic diseases but on cancer, surely,
must be greatly exaggerated.

Reishi's tremendous effect warrants further studies. In June of 1986, a 39-year-old

female came to me with lung cancer and complications of the chest wall membrane.
She had been told that she could not be operated on by a number of hospitals. She
left in a hopeless state. Upon returning home, her husband started to feed her reishi.
After my examination, I was surprised by the findings: 6 months ago, she had
edema in the chest cavity, secondary to cancer and now the symptom had
completely disappeared. For a person who have already made her funeral
arrangement and waiting for death to rediscover there is hope for life, is incredible.
X-ray had presented an even better picture when I am going through her medical
history. She insisted that this was the result of her husband giving her reishi. The
edema had drained while the cancer tumor remained. On a rough calculation, this
patient had used about 4 grams of reishi essence daily and this was quite a high
dosage. We further undertook exploratory surgery and by using special freeze
technique, it was possible to perform operations on chest membrane cancer. Looking
at the x-ray, no cancerous cells were found. Only scar tissues were evident, which
were different from cancer cells. I did a biopsy of the lung tissues and detected
malignancy, but stable. The next case involved a child with congenital liver cancer.
He had one operation when he was 5 years old and later, had his small
intestines removed due to metasiasis. The treating doctor felt that the patient's
condition was terminal and stopped treatment eventually. The boy's parents brought
the patient home and fed him reishi through an N.G. tube (Nasogastric tube). The
boy came to me when he was 9 and I was unable to detect any diseases. Nothing
was found in the CT scan examination as well. Congenital liver cancer is a form of
juvenile carcinoma and I was much surprised that the patient recovered after just
regular ingestion of several grams of reishi essence. He continues to take 2 grams of
the essence daily. Even the boy knows that without the reishi he might not have lived
today. Juvenile carcinoma is usually fatal, but then this patient remains alive and
healthy with no physical ailments are truly amazing. This fact now calls for new
consideration on my part. When a person recovers by undergoing no other treatment
but reishi ingestion, it is obvious that reishi deserves further research.

I was provided with large quantities of reishi essence from a very reputable chemical
company in Japan. I administer the same to my patients in mega dosage combined
with Vitamin C. Within one year, about 500 kilograms of reishi essence
(approximately 6000 kilograms of premium reishi) were used on my patients.
An interesting fact have surfaced during my treatment is that where large doses of
reishi essence induce melena ( i.e. several grams or more daily), combination with
Vitamin C put a stop to this. Furthermore, numerous observations have confirmed
the fact that cancer patients are generally more susceptible to contract other
diseases due to their lowered body resistance. However, after being treated with
reishi, complications due to such inflections are greatly diminished. I have assigned
random cancer patients to administer reishi essence with a control group of patients
with other illness, e.g. arthritic rheumatism, chronic bronchitis, hepatitis etc., that is,
people with lowered body resistance to diseases.

Immunogloburin test determines the level of immunity. We have found that after
ingesting reishi, level of IgA, IgG, IgM have increased. This proves that reishi can
elevate the body's resistance level.

At this time, I have 140 cancer patients. All have metastic cancer except 6 with
breast cancer and 60 are being hospitalized. We have zeroed in on these cancer
patients. Up to today (spring of 1988), about 300 patients have undergone testing.

WHY IS REISHI EFFECTIVE AGAINST CANCER: POLYSACCHARIDES

Before I give case examples, I would like to unveil the secret of why reishi is so
effective in the treatment of cancer. The conclusion is not fully understood at the
present time and when it is, then, men would have found the ultimate cure for
cancer. Employing all the latest medical technology, it is found that the
polysaccharides in reishi are effective in suppressing cancerous cells. Japanese
scientists are the first in making this discovery. Perhaps this had something to do
with the fact that the country employs herbal medicine in treatment of diseases and
conducts vigorous researches into polysaccharides. This fact is recognized in North
America and is further awaiting findings from such Japanese researches.

WHY ARE POLYSACCHRIDES IN REISHI EFFECTIVE IN THE TREATMENT OF

CANCER

Polysaccharides are made up of a high number of molecular components - up to

millions of atoms and this makes it difficult to be absorbed into the human body
system. In order to make it easily assimilated, its high count has to be lowered and
using Vitamin C with reishi does just that. The polysaccharides are converted into
oligoglucan that has a low molecular count and can be easily absorbed. It in turns
stimulates the uacrophage, which triggers the immune system in our body. Macre
meaning big. This type of cell can devour any foreign organisms. They are not active
when the body is functioning normally, but, in the presence of foreign organisms
(e.g. bacteria), they become very active in attacking such bacterial foreign matters.
The white blood cells in the blood stream comprise the initial defense against
diseases but they are ineffective in chronic cases or malignant type of matters, at
which time, the lymphocyte becomes the second line of defense. Failing that, the last
defense will be the macrophage - it is like a sleeping lion being awakened to attack
with truly exceptional result! They are capable of sweeping away any foreign
organisms thus destroying the cancerous cells in the process. Under the
microscope, the macrophage is observed to be one tenth the size of a cancer cell,
yet, it possesses the power to destroy the latter. From this, we can understand their
invaluability to the human body. However, the macrophage cannot be easily
activated. We have found that aggregated atoms are responsible for this activation of
the macrophage, and reishi contains the substance to manufacture these aggregated
atoms.

REISHI - A HIGH MOLECULAR POLYSACCHARIDES

Earlier a patient with high blood pressure had inquired into the effects of reishi. I had
told him that there was certainly no harm in trying as I had conducted research at
that time. One fact is: even a diluted dose of reishi essence lowers blood pressure.
However this patient had maintained his blood pressure level after reishi ingestion.
Following my suggestion to ingest Vitamin C together with reishi, his blood
pressure dropped to an acceptable level. The reason for this is, as mentioned
previously, reishi contains up to a million atoms and cannot be easily absorbed into
the body; therefore, one should combine it with Vitamin C.

Seventeen years ago, I have conducted research into the Vitamin C's ability to break
down polysaccharides. At that time, the method of viscosity gauge has been
employed. Placing Vitamin C into a measure of polysaccharide substance, a decrease
of the polysaccharides molecular count is indicated by a drop in the viscosity. Thus,
confirming Vitamin C's ability of dissolving polysaccharides.

Animal experiments have shown that all forms of sugar can be absorbed but are just
the opposite in human, why? This has some correlation with Vitamin C - human body
is unable to manufacture Vitamin C, while animals can. This is the reason why we
need to combine the intake of Vitamin C with reishi.

New medical findings indicate that there is no harm in taking high dosage of Vitamin
C daily. Dr. Linus Pauling, who is now in his 80's, ingests 18 grams of Vitamin C daily,
and I ingest 12 grams a day. I believe a healthy person needs a supplement of 1
gram to 2 grams a day, that is 1,000 - 2,000 mg. This can contribute greatly to
one's well being.

Now let us look at some reishi usage case studies.

1. Brain tumor patient recovering consciousness in just 2 months.

We have made many discoveries. Using brain disease patients as examples, one 70
years old plus patient in the hospital had a 5 cm brain tumor. He had already lost
consciousness despite surgery. He began the reishi treatment around June of 1986
and by September, he had recovered his senses, but the size of the tumor had
remained the same. However by December, the tumor had decreased in size, even
the neurologist was amazed. The patient now feels very well. Initially he was
administered 6 grams of reishi essence through a stomach tube. After the recovery
of his senses, oral intake was administered. The patient did not like the bitter taste
of reishi essence, so the amount was reduced to 3 grams. Although the dosage had
been reduced, his brain tumor eventually shrunk to about 1 cm. With the return of
his memory, he left the hospital and stayed home with the family instead.

2. Recession of lung cancer within 6 months.

I once treated a fifty plus female patient who had breast cancer. After her breast
surgery, she had developed metastasic lung cancer. Later she deteriorated to
hemoptysis. She began to use about 6 gm. of reishi daily for 6 months and the
cancerous lung tumor disappeared. Before, she is often short of breath, but now she
can walk up the stairs effortlessly. Therefore, she has complete confidence in the
continuation of the reishi treatment.
3. Breast cancer cured in 2 months with mega dosage.

This patient had breast cancer and the cancer cells had matastased to the bones.
She had not been able to move from the head down. The pain was excruciating.
Luckily, her digestive system was not affected and she was able to take 9 grams of
reishi essence daily, which was later increased, to 20 grams. In just 2 months, she
felt no pain. She had been discharged from the hospital after she made progress in
her walking ability.

4. Cancer of rectum spreading to the liver with remarkable recovery in 6

months.

Some time ago, this patient came to the hospital for treatment of metastasis of
rectal cancer to the liver. He was given 6 grams of reishi essence. In 6 months, CT
scanning reported that the cancerous tumor had decreased to about 1 cm in size, but
the CT specialists did not believe in the merits of reishi and insisted that there was a
mistake in the scanning. I was angered by this and argued that not only had the
patient's CEA swelling came down but his general health had also improved. Was it
not enough proof? Ordinarily, it is difficult to treat rectal cancers. Some cases are
even terminal. This patient had such a smooth recovery which could only be credited
to reishi. Generally speaking, it is easier to treat rectal tumor under 3 cm in size.

5. Pancreas cancer patient can walk again.

A 60 year old male pancreas cancer patient had surgery and was in a better state for
a while, but later deteriorated. He had edema and lost weight. Examination results
revealed that he had extremely high count of CA19-9CEA. I informed him that with
his present treatment he would die within a short period of time. I advised him to be
hospitalized. Due to financial reasons, he was given another kind of medication but
he reacted unfavorably to it. Therefore, we had to change his treatment to 9 grams
of reishi essence orally and 30 grams of Vitamin C through intravenous injection
daily. This began from August of 1986 which was over 1 year ago. The patient had
since completely recovered and various examinations could not detect symptoms of
any kind. He has gone back to work but continues to take 5 grams of reishi daily. He
comes for a follow-up examination every 2 weeks and repeat CEA examinations
show that his CA19-19 counts continues to drop.

There is many more such cancer cases in my hospital. Although cancer cases
involving the brain, lungs and liver are more serious, I feel that it is easier to treat
than the cases involving the digestive organs. It is harder for the patients of the
latter to ingest reishi orally.

Besides cancer, reishi is also very effective in the treatment of hepatitis. With the use
of 1 gram to 3 grams of reishi essence daily, hepatitis patients will have tremendous
recovery results.

6. Hepatitis cured with reishi.

One patient who had hepatitis for a few years and his SGOT & SGPT count was 200 -
300. Normal range is under 30. I administered 3 grams of reishi daily and in about 2
-3 months his SGOT & SGPT dropped to around 50. Even this is still higher than
normal, continuous use will bring it in range. During this time, I asked him to stop
using reishi and immediately the count shot up to between 150 - 200. The count
dropped when treatment resumed. Thus proving the effect of reishi on hepatitis. A
combination with the use of Vitamin C is essential. Under these conditions, 6 grams
of Vitamin C is needed, i.e. 3 grams of reishi essence with 6 grams of Vitamin C. We
must understand that hepatitis is a chronic disease and relapse is ever present. It is
necessary to continue the intake of reishi (using smaller dosage) even after
one's recovery from hepatitis. Prevention is always the best measure.

Reishi is just as effective against other chronic diseases and optimum results are
obtained when combined with the intake of Vitamin C. Especially true for long term
prevention use.

In conclusion, reishi has been proven to exert significant effect on diminishing pain,
fortifying the body's immune system and prolonging life. Even though its role in
cancer control has not been determined 100 percent yet. Medications presently
employed to combat cancer have their effect but unfortunately these also produce
serious side effects. Reishi have a history of 3,000 years, during which time it is
widely used by many people with no reported unfavorable side effects. I therefore
recommend reishi for treatment and prevention as a safety measure. I hope that
people from all walks of life will take a concerned interest and share in this project.
Hopefully, in the very near future, reishi can bring a brighter outlook to the
human race in the conquest of longevity.

NOTE: The reishi essence used by Dr. Morishige has been derived from premium
reishi using the hot water extraction method. The polysaccharides content in the
essence used is far higher than most other average reishi essence or products.
Reishi and virus infection
Reishi has compounds that may have antiviral activity, including activity against the
Epstein-Barr virus.

Reishi and immune function

Oral administration of reishi results in Th1-associated immune enhancement in vivo.

Reishi and Cancer

Reishi has been shown to be a potential agent in the treatment or prevention of
certain cancers. In one study, reishi suppressed cell adhesion and cell migration of
highly invasive breast and prostate cancer cells, suggesting its potency to reduce
tumor invasiveness. Reishi clearly demonstrates anticancer activity in experiments
with cancer cells and has possible therapeutic potential as a dietary supplement for
an alternative therapy for breast and prostate cancer. Additional studies show water
soluble extracts from reishi inhibit colon tumors in mice. And, reishi may enhance the
immune response in those with end stage cancer. As of December 2007, extensive
human studies are not available to make any firm conclusions regarding the dosage
and safety of reishi in terms of human cancer treatment.

Regression of gastric large B-Cell lymphoma accompanied by a florid

lymphoma-like T-cell reaction: immunomodulatory effect of Ganoderma lucidum
Reishi? Int J Surg Pathol. 2007 Apr;15(2):180-6. Department of Pathology, Queen
Elizabeth Hospital, Wylie Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong.Complete regression of high-
grade lymphoma is extremely rare. We report 1 such case that might have been
conceivably mediated by reishi. A 47-year-old man presented with epigastric pain.
Endoscopy revealed a large gastric ulcer, which on biopsy was diagnostic of large B-
cell lymphoma. At gastrectomy 11 days later, no evidence was found of large B-cell
lymphoma despite thorough sampling. Instead, there was a dense and permeative
infiltrate of CD3(+) CD8(+) cytotoxic small T lymphocytes spanning the whole
thickness of the gastric wall. In situ reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction
for T-cell receptor beta-chain family did not detect a monoclonal T-cell population.
We postulate that the cytotoxic T cells may represent an active host-immune
response against the large B-cell lymphoma that resulted in a complete regression.
On questioning, the patient had taken megadoses of reishi, which might have
triggered the successful immune reaction.

Anti cancer effects of Ganoderma lucidum: a review of scientific evidence.

Nutr Cancer. 2005;53(1):11-7. Department of Health Technology and Informatics,
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, SAR, China. Reishi a popular
medicinal mushroom, has been used in China for longevity and health promotion
since ancient times. Investigations into the anti cancer activity of reishi have been
performed in both in vitro and in vivo studies, supporting its application for cancer
treatment and prevention. The proposed anti cancer activity of reishi has prompted
its usage by cancer patients. It remains debatable as to whether reishi is a food
supplement for health maintenance or actually a therapeutic "drug" for medical
proposes. Thus far there has been no report of human trials using reishi as a direct
anti cancer agent, despite some evidence showing the usage of reishi as a potential
supplement to cancer patients. Cellular immune responses and mitogenic reactivity
of cancer patients have been enhanced by reshi, as reported in two randomized and
one nonrandomized trials, and the quality of life of 65% of lung cancer patients
improved in one study. The direct cytotoxic and anti-angiogenesis mechanisms of
reishi have been established by in vitro studies; however, clinical studies should not
be neglected to define the applicable dosage in vivo. At present, reishi is a health
food supplement to support cancer patients, yet the evidence supporting the
potential of direct in vivo anti cancer effects should not be underestimated.

Reishi and Neurasthenia

Neurasthenia does not have a good definition, but mostly involves lack of vitality,
fatigue, and lack of sense of wellbeing.

A randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled study of a Ganoderma lucidum

polysaccharide extract in neurasthenia. J Med Food. 2005 Spring;8(1):53-8. New
Zealand Institute of Natural Medicine Research, Auckland, New Zealand.
Reishi has been widely used to treat various diseases, including cancer, diabetes,
and neurasthenia in many Asian countries. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-
controlled parallel study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a
polysaccharide extract of Reishi (Ganopoly) in Chinese patients with neurasthenia.
One hundred thirty-two patients with neurasthenia according to the diagnosis criteria
of the 10th International Classification of Diseases were included in this study.
Ganopoly was well tolerated in the study patients. These findings indicated that
Ganopoly was significantly superior to placebo with respect to the clinical
improvement of symptoms in neurasthenia.

Additional benefits of reishi mushroom

Animal studies indicate reishi has the ability to lower cholesterol levels.

Reishi toxicity
Giving reishi to human volunteers for a period of 4 weeks did not lead to any toxicity.

Availability of Reishi
Reishi is sold in various forms, including tablets, reishi coffee or tea, and reishi
extract.

Reishi Research Update

Anti-androgenic activities of Ganoderma lucidum - Reishi. J Ethnopharmacol. 2005
Oct 31;102(1):107-12. Department of Forest and Forest Products Science, Faculty of
Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka. The inhibitory effects of methanol extracts
of 19 edible and medicinal mushrooms on 5alpha-reductase activity were examined.
The extract of Ganoderma lucidum Fr. Krast (Ganodermataceae- Reishi) showed the
strongest 5alpha-reductase inhibitory activity. The treatment of the fruit body of
reishi or the extract prepared from it significantly inhibited the testosterone-induced
growth of the ventral prostate in castrated rats. These results showed that reishi
might be a useful ingredient for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the platelet and

global hemostatic effects of Ganoderma lucidum (Ling-Zhi - reishi ) in healthy
volunteers. Anesth Analg. 2005 Aug;101(2):423-6

Reishi is a Chinese herbal medicine popular with cancer patients. Previous in

vitro studies suggested that reishi might impair hemostasis. In this prospective,
randomized double-blind study, healthy volunteers received orally reishi capsules 1.5
g (n = 20) or placebo (n = 20) daily for 4 wk. We monitored subjects before drug
administration and at 4 and 8 wk thereafter by routine coagulation screen, fibrinogen
concentration, von Willebrand ristocetin cofactor activity, platelet function analyzer
PFA-100, and thrombelastography. There were no significant between-group
differences and all measurements remained within the normal range. Reishi ingestion
over 4 wk was not associated with impairment of hemostasis.

Anti-tumor and immunoregulatory activities of Ganoderma lucidum and its

possible mechanisms. Acta Pharmacol Sin. 2004 Nov;25(11):1387-95.
Ganoderma lucidum ( reishi ) is a medicinal fungus with a variety of biological
activities. Reishi has long been used as a folk remedy for promotion of health and
longevity in China and other oriental countries. The most attractive character of this
kind of medicinal fungus is its effect on the immune system and anti-tumor activities.
Large numbers of studies have shown that reishi modulates many components of the
immune system such as the antigen-presenting cells, NK cells, T and B lymphocytes.
The water extract and the polysaccharides fraction of reishi exhibited significant anti-
tumor effect in several tumor-bearing animals mainly through its immune system
enhancing activity. Recent studies also showed that the alcohol extract or the
triterpene fraction of reishi possessed anti-tumor effect, which seemed to be related
to the cytotoxic activity against tumor cells directly. Preliminary study indicated that
antiangiogenic effect may be involved antitumor activity of reishi.

Antitumor and anti-angiogenic activity of Ganoderma lucidum

polysaccharides peptide.
Acta Pharmacol Sin. 2004 Jun;25(6):833-8.
AIM: To investigate the antitumor and anti-angiogenic activity of Ganoderma
lucidum polysaccharides peptide (Reishi). CONCLUSION: GLPP has antitumor and
anti-angiogenic activity. The anti-angiogenesis of reishi may be a new mechanism
underlying its anti-tumor effects.

Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in

human prostate cancer cells PC-3.
Int J Oncol. 2004 May;24(5):1093-9.
Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi), an oriental medical mushroom, has been widely used in
Asian countries for centuries to prevent or treat different diseases, including cancer.
However, the mechanism(s) responsible for the effects of reishi on cancer cells
remain to be elucidated. Our data demonstrate that reishi inhibits cell proliferation in
a dose- and time-dependent manner by the down-regulation of expression of cyclin B
and Cdc2 and by the up-regulation of p21 expression. Furthermore, reishi induced
apoptosis of PC-3 cells with a slight decrease in the expression of NF-kappaB-
regulated Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl. Reishi exerts its effect on cancer cells by multiple
mechanisms and may have potential therapeutic use for the prevention and
treatment of cancer.

Hypoglycemic effect of Ganoderma lucidum (reishi) polysaccharides.

Acta Pharmacol Sin. 2004 Feb;25(2):191-5.
AIM: To investigate the hypoglycemic effect of reishi polysaccharides in the normal
fasted mice and its possible mechanism. Normal fasted mice were given a single
dose of reishi 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg by i.p. and the serum glucose was measured at
0, 3, and 6 h after administration. Reishi 100 mg/kg were also given by i.p. and the
serum glucose and insulin levels were measured at 0 min, 30 min, 1 h, 3 h, 6 h, and
12 h. Pancreatic islets were isolated and incubated with glucose and different
concentration of reishi, the insulin content of islets and insulin release were
examined. Verapamil and egtazic acid were used to testify whether the insulin-
releasing effect of reishi was mediated by its ability to raise the Ca2+ influx. Reishi
dose-dependently lowered the serum glucose levels at 3 h and 6 h after
administration. Reishi 100 mg/kg raised the circulating insulin levels at 1 h after
administration. In vitro, reishi had no effect on islets insulin content, but it
stimulated the insulin release after incubation with glucose 5.6 mmol/L. Confocal
microscope showed that reishi 100 mg/L had the capacity to raise the [Ca2+]i. The
insulin-releasing effect of reishi was inhibited by verapamil/egtazic acid. Reishi
possesses the hypoglycemic effect on normal mice; one mechanism is through its
insulin-releasing activity due to a facilitation of Ca2+ inflow to the pancreatic beta
cells.

Ganoderma lucidum (reishi), a Chinese medicinal mushroom: biomarker

responses in a controlled human supplementation study.
Br J Nutr. 2004 Feb;91(2):263-9.
Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum, reishi) is a woody mushroom highly regarded in
traditional medicine and is widely consumed in the belief that it promotes health and
longevity, lowers the risk of cancer and heart disease and boosts the immune
system. However, objective scientific validation of the putative health benefits of
reishi in human subjects is lacking, and issues of possible toxicity must be
addressed. The present double-blinded, placebo-controlled, cross-over intervention
study investigated the effects of 4 weeks reishi supplementation on a range of
biomarkers for antioxidant status, CHD risk, DNA damage, immune status, and
inflammation, as well as markers of liver and renal toxicity. It was performed as a
follow-up to a study that showed that antioxidant power in plasma increased after
reishi ingestion, and that 10 d supplementation was associated with a trend towards
an improved CHD biomarker profile. In the present study, fasting blood and urine
from healthy, consenting adults (n 18; aged 22-52 years) was collected before and
after 4 weeks supplementation with a commercially available encapsulated reishi
preparation (1.44 g reishi/d; equivalent to 13.2 g fresh mushroom/d) or placebo. No
significant change in any of the variables was found, although a slight trend toward
lower lipids was again seen, and antioxidant capacity in urine increased. The results
showed no evidence of liver, renal or DNA toxicity with reishi intake, and this is
reassuring. The present study of the effects in healthy, well-nourished subjects
provides useful, new scientific data that will support controlled intervention trials
using at-risk subjects in order to assess the therapeutic effect of reishi in the
promotion of healthy ageing.

Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) in cancer treatment.

Integr Cancer Ther. 2003 Dec;2(4):358-64.
The popular edible mushroom Reishi has been widely used for the general promotion
of health and longevity in Asian countries. The dried powder of reishi was popular as
a cancer chemotherapy agent in ancient China. The authors recently demonstrated
that reishi inhibits constitutively active transcription factors nuclear factor kappa B
(NF-kappaB) and AP-1, which resulted in the inhibition of expression of urokinase-
type plasminogen activator and its receptor uPAR. Reishi also suppressed cell
adhesion and cell migration of highly invasive breast and prostate cancer cells,
suggesting its potency to reduce tumor invasiveness. Thus, reishi clearly
demonstrates anticancer activity in experiments with cancer cells and has possible
therapeutic potential as a dietary supplement for an alternative therapy for breast
and prostate cancer. However, because of the availability of reishi from different
sources, it is advisable to test its biologic activity.

Effects of ganopoly (a Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide extract) on the

immune functions in advanced-stage cancer patients.
Immunol Invest. 2003 Aug;32(3):201-15.
Preclinical studies have established that the Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide
(reishi) fractions have potent anti-tumor activity, which has been associated with the
immuno-stimulating effects of reishi. However, it is unclear whether reishi has
immuno-modulating effects in humans in vivo. This study aimed to investigate the
effects of Ganopoly, the polysaccharides fractions extracted from reishi, on the
immune function of advanced-stage cancer patients. Thirty-four advance-stage
cancer patients were entered onto this study, and treated with 1800 mg Ganopoly
(reishi), three times daily orally before meals for 12 weeks. Immune parameters
(cytokines, T cell subsets, and natural killer activity) were compared between
baseline and after 12-week treatment. Thirty patients are assessable for their
immune functions. Treatment of reishi for 12 weeks resulted in a significant increase
in the mean plasma concentrations of interleukin (IL-2), IL-6, and interferon (IFN)-
gamma, whereas the levels of IL-1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-alpha) were
significantly decreased. A marked variability among patients with advanced-stage
cancer was observed in the numbers of each lymphocyte subset at baseline. The
mean absolute number of CD56+ cells was significantly increased after 12-week
treatment of reishi, whereas the numbers of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ were just
marginally increased compared to baseline levels, with the CD4:CD8 T cell ratios
unchanged. In addition, reishi treatment resulted in a significant increase in the
mean NK activity compared to baselines. The present study indicates that Ganopoly
enhanced the immune responses in patients with advanced-stage cancer. Clinical
evaluations of response and toxicity are ongoing.

Mechanism of the antiulcerogenic effect of Ganoderma lucidum

polysaccharides (reishi) on indomethacin-induced lesions in the rat.
Life Sci. 2002 Dec 27;72(6):731-45.
Many cytokines, in particular tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha have been known to
play an important role in the pathogenesis of gastric mucosal lesions caused by
various factors such as drugs and Helicobacter pylori infection. Our previous studies
have shown that the polysaccharide fractions isolated from the fruiting bodies of
Ganoderma lucidum (reishi) prevented indomethacin- and acetic acid-induced gastric
mucosal lesions in the rat. However, the mechanisms remain unclear. This study
aimed to investigate whether reishi had a direct mucosal healing effect in the
indomethacin-treated rat, and to explore the possible mechanisms by determining
the gastric mucosal mRNA and protein levels of TNF-alpha and ornithine
decarboxylase (ODC) activity. These findings indicated that reishi produced a
mucosal healing effect in the rat model, perhaps due partly to the suppression of
TNF-alpha.
Reishi Questions
Q. Does taking reishi capsules interfere with the warfarin (coumadin)? I take
warfarin 5mg a day.
A. We checked Medline for the keywords reishi in association with warfarin,
bleeding, platelet, clotting, coumadin, and could not find any research. Therefore, we
don't have any information at this time to say if there is any interaction between
coumadin and reishi.

Q. Can children take reishi mushroom?

A. We have not seen much research with reishi mushroom and children, therefore
it is difficult to make any suggestions.

Q. I want to thank you for web pages on supplements. Your site is so informative.
Thanks for being there. I was on reishi mushroom caplets for a few years and
decided to take COQ10 this past couple months, so not knowing if I could take both I
went off the reishi. I love the energy COQ10 provides me but I miss the mental
clarity benefits of the reishi. I am always mentally tired it seems. Can I take these
two together? Is there any "drug interactions" between these two?
A. We are not aware of any studies that have combined reishi mushroom
supplements and CoQ10. As a general rule, most supplements can be combined if
their dosages are kept low. However, each person reacts differently, so no general
statements can be made that would apply to everyone.

Q. My father has a brain tumor astrocytoma grade 2 in basal. He is 60 years old. His
doctor recommended 6 weeks radiation, and he just finished. Surgery is not
possible. One of my Chinese friends recommended reishi, but I have no idea about
this product. Is it helpful for his brain tumor? How much does he have to take
( reishi dosage )?
A. Reishi has show some benefit in cancer treatment in laboratory and animal
studies. However, as of December 2007, extensive human studies are not available
to make any firm conclusions regarding the dosage and safety of reishi mushroom or
reishi extract in terms of human cancer treatment.

Reishi Mushroom Extract 6% Polysaccharides / Triterpenoids

 Lingzhi A Miracle Herb For Peak Health
The secret of success is knowing how to deal with your body to maintain peak health
condition. The dictum Health is Wealth hold more truth in the modern context than
ever before.

While medical science has progressed what one could ever imagine, in treating
disorders and disease, the real challenge lies in prevention. Modern medicine has
succeeded in treating major disease it has not found a perfect system for prevention
of dreaded diseases like cancer and HIV.

The answer lies in looking to a system which is natural sustainable and adaptable for
all conditions and all body systems.

This has now led to extensive research in Herbs as the primary preventive source
and healthy herbal and organic food products now take the lead in preventive
systems.

The king of Herbs as it is known in China and Celestial Herb in Japan is Ganoderma.
It is also known as Lingzhi in China and Reishi in Japan.

Lingzhi is now widely researched across the globe by many universities and research
institutions and sterling work has been done by China and Japan.

Revered for thousands of years and shrouded in mystery, Lingzhi however was
difficult to grow. After much research in 1970 a breakthrough was achieved in
commercial cultivation. Still it remains rare and cultivated in few countries like China,
Japan, Malaysia and Korea to name a few.

DXN a company from Malaysia remains in the forefront of bringing the benefits of the
Lingzhi to the common man. More details at http://globalhealthnetwork.tripod.com
The Magic Effects of Ganoderma

Research is still going on and scientists have discovered 252 active components
beneficial and essential to the human body. It is an adaptogen which brings immense
benefits to human body without any side effect.

Analysis and experiments done by various universities and pharmaceutical

manufacturers have attested to its being a hemocatharsis, detoxificant,diuretic, liver
protector, intestine regulator, cardiotonic, blood pressure adjuster, a cold tonic,
expectorant, a tranquilizer and inhibits tumour and cancerous growth.

What is the Healing Principle of Ganoderma

Many clinical trials and experiments by doctors, especially Dr. Shigeru Yuji’s
experiments has established the reasons Ganoderma is effective because of its basic
functions

• Lowers cholesterol in the blood and the amount of free fat

• Reduces blood sugar levels and helps pancreatic functions
• Lowers blood lipids and stabilizes red cell membrane
• Improves the function of the cortex of the adrenal glands to maintain
endocrine balance
• Elevates the natural healing ability of the body, allows the body to establish
strong immune system
• Prevents tissue cell degeneration
• Prevents senility, maintaining a youthful constitution
• Lowers the side effects of antihypertensive drugs
• Prevents organ degenetation
• Prevents allergy caused by antigens, because it inhibits the histamine release
by mastcells
• Relieves pain caused by cancer

While plenty of medical terminology is used to describe various effects on the body,
we have avoided such references as the article is not meant as a medical prescription
but mainly for use by the common man as an effective health giving food
supplement.

Main Health Giving Components

While the Linghzhi mushrooms are said to contain 252 active medicinal compounds,
the two main components are:

1. Germanium: Germanium can promote blood circulation, can increase oxygen

absorbing capability of the body and keep sufficient oxygen in the body,
improve metabolism and prevent functional degeneration. Based on research
germanium is the major component of Lingzhi. The germanium contained in
Lingzhi is 4-6 times more than ginseng.
2. Poly-saccharides: The poly saccharides can increase antibody count which
strengthens immunity. Poly saccharides are the most active health enhancing
ingredient for the body.
No wonder the Lingzhi mushrooms are called the ‘Celestial Herb’ by the Japanese for
its health giving properties. Modern science and cultivation methods have made this
difficult to grow herb available for the past decade or two for everyone to derive the
benefits.

While there are thousands of research papers available on the medicinal aspects of
the Lingzhi this article primarily is to highlight the health giving aspects of this
wonderful herbal remedy for ills of the modern living like stress, pollution and
imbalances in food habits.

About The Author

R.G. Srinivasan is professional Soft Skills Trainer, Author and a network marketing
leader. He is passionate about alternate healing therapies and writes on these
subjects regularly. He is a practitioner of Bach flower therapy and Ganotherapy. You
can find out more about the availability of Reishi ganoderma and articles on health
and wellness at http://globalhealthnetwork.tripod.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=R_G_Srinivasan