A Phase I/II Study of Ling Zhi Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (W.Curt.:Fr.) Lloyd (Aphyllophoromycetideae) Extract in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease

Authors: Yihuai Gao, Guoliang Chen, Xihu Dai, Jingxian Ye, Shufeng Zhou

Journal: International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms

Study Design:

• Intervention: Ganopoly (extracted G. lucidum polysaccharides) or placebo for 12 weeks
• Participants: 168 patients with confirmed coronary heart disease (CHD)
• Outcome Measures:
  • Improvement of major symptoms (chest pain, palpitation, angina pectoris, shortness of breath)
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG) changes
  • Serum cholesterol level
  • Blood pressure

Summary: This study investigated the clinical effects and safety of Ganopoly, a polysaccharide extract from Ganoderma lucidum, in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The results showed that Ganopoly treatment significantly improved the primary symptoms of CHD, including chest pain, palpitation, angina pectoris, and shortness of breath. The percentage of abnormal ECGs also decreased significantly in the Ganopoly group compared to the placebo group. Additionally, Ganopoly treatment led to a significant decrease in blood pressure and serum cholesterol levels. Ganopoly was well-tolerated and appeared to be safe and effective in patients with CHD.