Preliminary Study of the Applications of Ganoderma Lucidum in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Authors: Sukanya Soksawatmakhin and Wijit Boonyahotra

Journal: Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine

Study Design:

• Intervention: 2 g/day of Ganoderma lucidum extract or placebo
• Participants: 50 volunteers with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
• Duration: 12 weeks
• Outcome Measures:
  • Quality of life (SF-12 questionnaire)
  • Fatigue levels (Visual Analog Scale – VAS)
  • Serum cortisol levels

Summary: This study investigated the effects of Ganoderma lucidum extract on fatigue and quality of life in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). After 4 weeks, participants taking the extract showed significant improvements in quality of life and reduced fatigue levels compared to the placebo group. Additionally, after 12 weeks, those taking the extract had increased serum cortisol levels, which are often lower in people with CFS. The extract was well-tolerated, with no significant difference in side effects compared to the placebo. These findings suggest that Ganoderma lucidum extract may be a potential treatment for CFS.