For generations, Lingzhi has been used by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners to nourish the ‘three treasures’1 – jing (essence), qi (vital energy), and shen (spirit). “If eaten customarily, it makes your body light and young, lengthens your life, and turns you into one like the immortal who never dies,” a famous herbalist of China’s Shu Dynasty, Shen Nong, is recorded as having said some 2,400 years ago.

Indeed, the name Lingzhi is itself combination of the Chinese characters for ‘spiritual potency’ and ‘essence of immortality’.

Today, scientific research continues to uncover what makes this mushroom one of nature’s most potent medicines. Among other things:

• It is packed with active compounds called polysaccharides, which have immune-boosting and anti-aging properties – explaining why in folk art, Lingzhi is often featured with the God of Longevity.
• It is filled with triterpenes, the compound that gives it its bitter taste, but which also helps prevent hypertension and relieve allergy symptoms. In fact, the more bitter the taste, the higher the quality of the mushroom.2
• It is rich in beta-glucans, complex sugars that research suggests may prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells. A 2008 study3 also found that the active components of Lingzhi combined with green tea may inhibit tumour growth.
• In TCM, Lingzhi is said to influence the heart, lungs, liver and kidney channels, and is therefore often prescribed to tonify Qi, calm the mind, and relieve cough and asthma.

A word of caution: Lingzhi stimulates the immune system, and should never be taken by those who are on immunosuppressant drugs.

Beyond the physical, Lingzhi has a long history of being used as a spiritual aid. Monks and mountain hermits have traditionally used Lingzhi to heighten their focus, increase their will power, and maintain emotional balance. It is important to bear in mind, however, that not all Lingzhi mushrooms – and related medicinal products – are created equal, which is why it is imperative to always use a trusted source.

Here are a few things to look out for: