AVAILABILITY

   The mushroom goes by the names Reishi. Ling Zhi, ganoderma and Mannentake. Both Ganoderma lucidum (the red variety with the common "cap" is preferred in Japan, but cultured mycelium are also used) and Ganoderma japonicum (a darker, spongier species) are found in the market. These two species are often used interchangeably by Chinese herb doctors. However, only Ganoderma lucidum has been subjected to research studies.

   The whole mushroom, powdered extracts in capsules, and instant teas are found in Please turn page herb shops in Chinatowns throughout the country. Attesting to the poplularity of the mushroom, there is a large shop entirely devoted to ganoderma products in San Francisco's Chinatown. Health food stores are increasingly serving as convenient outlets for ganoderma products.

   Ganoderma lucidum can be found growing wild in some parts of the U.S. and Canada, but it is relatively rare and the services of a mushroom expert are required for positive identification