Ling Zhi - Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma Lucidum)

Ling Zhi 灵芝, the varnished fruiting body of Ganoderma lucidum, is revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as the "mushroom of immortality." Its concentric growth rings symbolize longevity, and modern research confirms broad-spectrum adaptogenic properties that modulate multiple physiological systems simultaneously.

Key Benefits
Tonifies Qi (补气安神) – For chronic fatigue with anxiety and poor sleep.
Calms Spirit (宁心安神) – Regulates nervous system hyperactivity.
Hepatoprotective – Clinical use in chemical liver damage.
Immune Modulation – Beta-glucans enhance pathogen defense.

Dosage & Administration
Decoction: 6–15g sliced (simmer 1+ hours to extract polysaccharides).
Powder: 1–3g daily for immune maintenance.
Tincture: Alcohol extracts triterpenoids effectively.
Classic Pairings:
With Huang Qi for qi deficiency with weak immunity.
With Suan Zao Ren for heart-spleen deficiency insomnia.

Characteristics
Taste: Bitter initially, developing earthy sweetness.
Nature: Neutral (unlike most mushrooms, neither warming nor cooling).

Safety Notes
Rare gastric discomfort at high doses.
May potentiate immunosuppressant medications.
Safe for long-term preventive use.

Traditional applications described for educational purposes. Professional guidance recommended for therapeutic use.