Ganoderma lucidum, commonly referred to as Lingzhi and Reishi mushrooms, are ancient medicinal mushrooms with numerous health benefits. Ganoderma has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine as it may promote general health and wellbeing while possibly acting as a preventative against cardiovascular disease. Studies have also demonstrated hypoglycaemic properties as well as natural blood pressure lowering effects that help strengthen immunity systems.

Studies of this polypore mushroom have explored its bioactivity. Studies have attributed its beneficial effects against cancer, diabetes, cold sores and high blood pressure to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties; more recently however it has also been proven effective for treating Alzheimer disease (AD) while having neuroprotective activity.

Ganoderma contains over 80 species of polypore macrofungi. Due to their similar appearance and large number of synonyms, distinguishing individual members of this family can be challenging; however DNA sequence analysis – specifically mitochondrial SSU rDNA analysis – enables classification into six monophyletic groups: G. lucidum, G. applanatum, G. sinense, Tsugae and Boinense (Figure 1).

Reishi mushrooms contain many antioxidants as well as polysaccharides and biologically active compounds, including polysaccharides and triterpenoids (ganoderic acids, alcohols and lactones) responsible for many of its biological benefits; among these is Lucidenic Acid DM which has proven particularly powerful.

Reishi mushroom is packed with essential minerals like magnesium and potassium that play a pivotal role in bodily functioning; any deficiency could lead to serious health complications. Furthermore, its abundance in Vitamin C helps strengthen immunity while protecting against the formation of viruses.

Reishi mushrooms have long been recognized for their beneficial compounds that help combat hypertension, high cholesterol and high blood glucose levels, as well as helping improve sleep and ease stress levels. While traditionally utilized medicinally in China and Japan, today they are increasingly popular worldwide.

For purposes of exploring the effects of Reishi on cardiovascular risk factors, electronic literature searches were performed via PubMed and Web of Science for articles published from 1961-2021; 4224 articles were located. Reishi has long been studied for its hypoglycaemic, cardiovascular and immune-enhancing activities. Studies on Reishi have examined its effects on various risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) such as cholesterol, triglycerides and blood sugar levels as well as its ability to inhibit oxidative stress. Below is a summary of key findings of these studies; other benefits reported from Reishi include its antitumor, antihepatotoxic and immunomodulatory properties which need further exploration through further studies.