Lingzhi has been used as a medicine for more than 2,000 years in China. Besides Ginseng, Lingzhi is another legendary herb, bordering on the mythical. One of the most mythical images of Lingzhi is that of a deer biting on a red Lingzhi, standing beside the God of Longevity. The deer, which is considered a wise animal to the Chinese, has a diet consisting mainly of precious herbs found in the wild. This suggests that Lingzhi is a precious herb that promotes long life.

Lingzhi is one of the most widely researched natural medicines. At present, Lingzhi is widely acknowledged to be able to treat Heart problems, allergies, pain, inflammations, Liver conditions and lower cholesterol levels. The most promising indication so far is Lingzhi's ability to treat advanced cancer of many forms.

The earliest research on Lingzhi’s role in cancer control was conducted in Japan back in 1968. In vivo and in vitro experiments were subsequently conducted in Japan, China, UK and the US, with results confirming the anti-tumour efficacy of Lingzhi.

It has been found that one of the active compounds in Lingzhi -- Polysaccharides -- has anti-tumour, immune-modulating and Blood-pressure-lowering effects. Besides Polysaccharides, the presence of Triterpenes suggests that Lingzhi may have adaptogenic, anti-allergenic and anti-hypertensive effects. In addition, in vivo experiments have proven that the Ganoderic Acid found in Lingzhi helps the Liver to protect the body against viruses and toxins.

It has been discovered that Lingzhi spores are more potent than its fruiting body, as the former holds more nutrients and therapeutic properties than the latter. As these spores are found only at a specific time in the life cycle of Lingzhi, harvesting them is a delicate process.

From a TCM perspective, Lingzhi influences the Hearts, Lungs, Liver and Kidney channels. It tonifies the Qi, tranquilises the Mind and relieves cough and asthma. It also has therapeutic indications for dizziness, insomnia, palpitations, shortness of breath, asthenic cough as well as asthma.

Use 3 qían (12g) of Lingzhi mushroom slices with 2 pieces of Licorice Root (Gāncăo) and simmer in water for 30 minutes. The cooked batch can be reused another time. This dosage can be consumed thrice a week. Alternatively, take as prescribed by your physician.