# Ganoderma lucidum Mannentake (Ganoderma lucidum)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/ganoderma-lucidum-mannentake
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-31
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Mushroom/Fungi
**Also Known As:** Reishi, Lingzhi, Mannentake, Ganoderma lucidum, Red Reishi, Varnish Shelf, Lacquered Polypore, Shiny Polypore, Ten-thousand-year mushroom, Mushroom of immortality, King of herbs, Divine fungus

## Overview

Ganoderma lucidum contains bioactive triterpenes and beta-glucans that modulate [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) function through T-cell and natural killer cell activation. This medicinal mushroom demonstrates potential for supporting immune health and providing [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) effects through [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) peroxidase enhancement.

## Health Benefits

• May support [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) function through T-cell activation and NK cell activity enhancement (evidence from preclinical studies)
• Potential reduction in body mass index and improved [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) status via [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) peroxidase (moderate evidence from meta-analyses)
• May provide analgesic effects in rheumatoid arthritis patients when combined with San Miao San (one RCT, PMID: 17907228)
• Shows promise for microbiota modulation and increased short-chain fatty acid production (preclinical evidence)
• No significant clinical benefits demonstrated for [blood glucose control](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) or [cardiovascular risk](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) factors (Cochrane review, PMID: 25686270)

## Mechanism of Action

Ganoderma lucidum's triterpenes and polysaccharide beta-glucans interact with [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) receptors to enhance T-cell proliferation and natural killer cell cytotoxicity. The bioactive compounds stimulate [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) peroxidase activity, reducing [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) markers. Beta-glucan fractions specifically bind to complement receptor 3 (CR3) and Toll-like receptors on macrophages, triggering immune cascade responses.

## Clinical Summary

Meta-analyses of human trials show moderate evidence for BMI reduction and improved [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) status through [glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox) peroxidase enhancement. Preclinical studies demonstrate consistent [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) modulation via T-cell activation and NK cell activity enhancement. Most human studies involve small sample sizes (30-100 participants) over 8-12 week periods. Evidence strength remains moderate due to limited large-scale randomized controlled trials.

## Nutritional Profile

Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi/Mannentake) is a low-calorie medicinal mushroom with a complex bioactive profile. Per 100g dried weight: Protein 10–18g (containing all essential amino acids; notable for glutamic acid, aspartic acid, and lysine); Carbohydrates 65–75g; Dietary fiber 35–50g (predominantly insoluble beta-glucans and chitin); Fat 1.5–3.5g (including oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid); Moisture in fresh form ~90%. Key bioactive polysaccharides: beta-1,3/1,6-D-glucans at 1–5% of dry weight (primary [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) fraction; bioavailability enhanced by hot-water extraction); Ganoderic acids (triterpenoids, >150 identified including ganoderic acid A, B, C, D, T, and Z) at 1–3% dry weight in fruiting body, higher in spores — fat-soluble, requiring lipid co-ingestion for optimal absorption. Adenosine: ~0.1–0.5mg/g dry weight. Ergosterol (provitamin D2 precursor): ~0.3–1.5mg/g. Minerals per 100g dry weight: Potassium 800–1200mg; Phosphorus 400–600mg; Calcium 20–50mg; Magnesium 50–100mg; Zinc 1.5–5mg; Iron 3–6mg; Selenium 0.02–0.1mg (soil-dependent, bioavailable as selenomethionine analogs). Vitamins: B2 (riboflavin) ~0.4–0.9mg/100g; B3 (niacin) ~6–8mg/100g; B5 (pantothenic acid) ~1–2mg/100g; Vitamin D2 formed post-UV exposure (~10–100 IU/100g, highly variable). Polysaccharide bioavailability note: hot-water extracted beta-glucans (MW 40–150 kDa) show superior intestinal uptake via Peyer's patch M-cells compared to raw powder; cell wall chitin limits bioavailability of raw forms by ~30–40%. Triterpene bioavailability is significantly improved in ethanolic or lipid-based extracts versus aqueous preparations. Spore oil contains concentrated ganoderic acids (~8–15% triterpenes) and is considered the most bioavailable triterpene source.

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinically studied doses include 3g/day of Ganoderma lucidum powder or extract for 16 weeks. Polysaccharide extracts have been used in immune studies, though exact standardization percentages were not specified in trials. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Ganoderma lucidum is generally well-tolerated with mild gastrointestinal upset reported in some users. Potential interactions exist with anticoagulant medications due to triterpene compounds affecting platelet aggregation. Individuals with autoimmune conditions should exercise caution due to [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) stimulation effects. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established in clinical trials.

## Scientific Research

Clinical evidence includes an 84-patient RCT testing 3g/day for 16 weeks in type 2 diabetes showing no significant glucose benefits (PMID: 27511742), and a Cochrane review finding no support for [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) benefits (PMID: 25686270). Meta-analyses indicate modest effects on BMI reduction and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) markers, though participants were 1.67 times more likely to experience non-serious adverse events compared to placebo.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2,000 years to promote [longevity](/ingredients/condition/longevity), boost [immunity](/ingredients/condition/immune-support), and treat fatigue, [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and respiratory issues. It is documented in ancient Chinese texts as an immune enhancer and general health tonic.

## Synergistic Combinations

Cordyceps sinensis, San Miao San, Vitamin D, [Beta-glucan](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) complex, [Probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)s

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended dosage of Ganoderma lucidum extract?

Clinical studies typically use 1-3 grams of standardized extract daily, containing 10-30% beta-glucans. Dosages vary based on extract concentration and intended use.

### How long does it take to see benefits from Ganoderma lucidum?

Immune system improvements may appear within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Antioxidant status changes and BMI effects typically require 8-12 weeks based on clinical trial data.

### Can Ganoderma lucidum interact with blood thinners?

Yes, triterpene compounds may enhance anticoagulant effects of warfarin and similar medications. Consult healthcare providers before combining with blood-thinning drugs.

### What are the active compounds in Ganoderma lucidum?

Primary bioactive compounds include beta-glucan polysaccharides (10-40% of extract) and triterpenes like ganoderic acids. These compounds provide the immune-modulating and antioxidant effects.

### Is Ganoderma lucidum safe for people with autoimmune diseases?

Caution is advised as beta-glucans stimulate immune system activity, potentially exacerbating autoimmune conditions. Individuals with lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or similar conditions should consult physicians before use.

### Is Ganoderma lucidum Mannentake different from other Ganoderma lucidum cultivars?

Mannentake is a specific cultivated variety of Ganoderma lucidum that may have slightly different growing conditions and processing methods compared to wild or other cultivated strains, though the core bioactive compounds remain similar across cultivars. The term 'Mannentake' refers to a Japanese cultivation method, which may influence polysaccharide profiles and beta-glucan content. Most clinical research on Ganoderma lucidum extracts does not distinguish between cultivars, suggesting comparable efficacy across varieties when standardized to active compounds.

### What is the evidence quality for Ganoderma lucidum's effects on weight management and antioxidant status?

Meta-analyses show moderate evidence that Ganoderma lucidum may help reduce body mass index and enhance antioxidant markers, particularly glutathione peroxidase activity, though individual studies vary in quality and population size. Most evidence comes from animal models and small human trials, meaning larger, well-controlled clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects. The antioxidant benefit appears most consistent when Ganoderma lucidum is used as part of a comprehensive wellness protocol rather than as a standalone intervention.

### Who should consider taking Ganoderma lucidum for immune support versus pain management?

Individuals seeking general immune system enhancement through T-cell and NK cell activation may benefit from long-term Ganoderma lucidum supplementation, while those with rheumatoid arthritis pain may see more targeted results when it is combined with traditional formulas like San Miao San (based on one clinical trial). The immune-supportive effects appear to develop gradually with consistent use, whereas the analgesic effects in arthritis showed more immediate relief in the available research. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended to determine the most appropriate application for your individual health goals.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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