Reishi Mushrooms (Ganoderma Lucidum)

Appearance and Origin The Ganoderma Lucidium is a rough mushroom with a 5 to 20 centimeters tall hat, sitting at a (mostly) side handle. It grows on hardwoods, especially oaks. The fungus is widespread in Europe, in East Asia (Japan, China, Korea) it is highly valued and bred there in large quantities. The scientific name "Ganoderma" comes from ancient Greek and means "bright, shiny skin". If the fungus is dried, it will not shrink like other fungi, but is completely lignified and maintains its original form. Typical forms are commercially dried thin slices or powder.

Use and Effect
The Ganoderma Licidium is not an edible mushroom due to its consistency and its bitter taste. It is used exclusively in naturopathy, e.g. as a tea and beverage additive, or in the cosmetic industry (e.g. for bath additives). Therapeutic applications are to bring about a strengthening of the immune system and the liver, and the stimulation of the metabolism and the cardiovascular system.

Examples for Preparation and Application
1. Add 4 slices of dried mushroom to 2 - 3 liters of boiling water and simmer it at low heat for 1-2 hours (at about 75 °). Then let it cool down and store it in the refrigerator. Drink half a cup of it every morning and evening.
2. Take 40 gr of crushed mushroom slices or powder, together with a little saffron, and mix it with 750 ml of Raki or any other clear alcoholic beverage type (eg brandy with about 40 VOL % alcohol). Store it for approx. 40 days in the dark at room temperature. Drink over a period of 3 - 9 months a teaspoon 2 - 3 times a day, for example, to a sweet coffee or juice or tea, preferably before meals.