Mushroom · Mushroom/Fungi

Ganoderma lucidum ethanol extract

Provisional Moderate Scorebotanical

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Ganoderma lucidum ethanol extract is a concentrated reishi mushroom preparation rich in triterpenes and beta-glucans that modulates immune function. The extract works through polysaccharide-mediated activation of macrophages and natural killer cells while triterpenes provide hepatoprotective effects.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryMushroom

GroupMushroom/Fungi

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary KeywordGanoderma lucidum ethanol extract benefits

Ganoderma lucidum ethanol extract close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor

Ganoderma lucidum ethanol extract — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports immune health by modulating immune responses, which helps the body adapt to various stressors. This modulation can lead to a more balanced immune system. - Provides anti-cancer properties by inhibiting tumor growth and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, offering a complementary approach to traditional treatments. - Exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by reducing cytokine production, which can alleviate symptoms of inflammatory diseases. This reduction helps manage conditions like arthritis. - Enhances liver health by promoting detoxification pathways, aiding in the removal of harmful substances. This supports overall metabolic processes. - Offers neuroprotective benefits by reducing oxidative stress in the brain, potentially lowering the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. This can enhance cognitive longevity. - Improves skin health by increasing antioxidant activity, which protects against UV-induced damage. This leads to healthier, more resilient skin. - Supports cardiovascular health by improving endothelial function, which can lower blood pressure and enhance circulation.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Ganoderma lucidum, widely known as Reishi, is a medicinal mushroom indigenous to Asia. It has been utilized for centuries in herbal medicine.

“Reishi has been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine, often referred to as the 'Elixir of Life' due to its reputed health benefits.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Ethanol extracts of Ganoderma lucidum have shown promise in cancer research, particularly in inhibiting tumor growth and enhancing immune function.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Rich in triterpenoids and sterols. - Contains polysaccharides. - Low in calories and carbohydrates.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

The extract's beta-glucan polysaccharides bind to dectin-1 receptors on immune cells, activating complement pathways and enhancing macrophage activity. Triterpenes like ganoderic acids modulate cytokine production by inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathways. These compounds also support liver function by reducing oxidative stress through Nrf2 pathway activation.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human trials with 200-400mg daily doses have shown modest immune benefits in small studies of 30-60 participants over 4-12 weeks. Some studies report 10-20% increases in natural killer cell activity and reduced fatigue scores. However, most research consists of preliminary trials with limited sample sizes. Larger, longer-term studies are needed to establish definitive therapeutic effects.

Also Known As

Ganoderma lucidumReishi mushroomLingzhiMannentakeVarnish shelfLacquered polyporeSpirit plantMushroom of immortality

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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