ABSTRACT
Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum) has been used for various indications in East Asian countries for thousands of years. Whilst it is known particularly for its immunomodulatory and antitumor properties, it has also been studied for its effects on the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Antioxidative, hypoglycaemic, lipid-lowering, antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory properties have been demonstrated by in vitro studies and in animal models. However, these effects have been inconsistent in clinical trials and the most convincing evidence is supportive of hypoglycaemic effects in patients with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Clinical studies have used different formulations of Lingzhi and there have been differences in the study populations which may account for the variability in outcomes. Larger well-controlled clinical studies are needed to elucidate potential benefits of standardized G. lucidum preparations for their effects on the cardiovascular risk factors which are relevant for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.
