Study of Potential Cardioprotective Effects of Ganoderma Lucidum (Lingzhi): Results of a Controlled Human Intervention Trial

Authors: Tanya T. W. Chu, Iris F. F. Benzie, Christopher W. K. Lam, Benny S. P. Fok, Kenneth K. C. Lee, and Brian Tomlinson

Journal: British Journal of Nutrition

Study Design:

• Intervention: 1.44 g Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum) daily or matching placebo
• Participants: 26 patients with borderline elevations of blood pressure and/or cholesterol
• Duration: 12 weeks (each group took Lingzhi or placebo for 12 weeks, with a 4-week washout period in between)
• Outcome Measures:
  • Body weight, blood pressure, metabolic parameters (lipids, glucose, insulin)
  • Urine catecholamines and cortisol
  • Antioxidant status
  • Lymphocyte subsets

Summary: This study investigated the effects of Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum) on cardiovascular and metabolic health in patients with mild hypertension or high cholesterol. The results showed that Lingzhi did not significantly affect blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), or most lipid levels. However, it did lower plasma insulin and insulin resistance, suggesting potential benefits for blood sugar control. Lingzhi also did not significantly impact antioxidant status or immune function. Overall, the study suggests that Lingzhi may have mild anti-diabetic effects and could potentially improve lipid profiles in people with diabetes, but further research is needed.