CURRFNT USES OF GAN ODERMA

   Ganoderma is being used in China for the treatment of viral hepatitis, chronic bronchitis, loss of memory and senility due to atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. In Japan, ganoderma is used for the treatment of cancer and myasthenia gravis. In the U.S., it has been used for the past two years in the treatment of AIDS (and the related condition ARC), and it is currently being studied more formally for its specific effects on the immune system of those infected with the AIDS virus.

   The traditional tea made from ganoderma has largely given way to the use of extracts and ground herb in tablets and capsules, which are convenient to take and generally of more reliable quality than home-brewed decoctions.

   The recommended use of ganoderma is an amount, which is equivalent to about 2 to 6 grams per day of raw material. Extracts range from 4 to 12 times as concentrated as the raw material, so less than one gram of extract is needed per day. Sometimes, ganoderma is combined with other mushrooms (such as hoelen, polyporus, shiitake or tremella) or other herbs (such as astragalus, ginseng or salvia) to promote its effects.

   According to laboratory studies of ganoderma actions on the immune system, maximal effects are obtained after approximately two weeks daily administration of the herb, and beneficial results continue with regular use for at least several weeks. Patients often show responses, such as improved sleep, better appetite, more energy, and some reduction of symptoms, within one week after starting use of ganoderma.

   As a health food, ganoderma is valued for its ability to provide useful energy while calming agitation. The amount taken and the frequency of use may be adjusted as desired.