Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum), also known as reishi mushroom, has been traditionally used in East Asian medicine for its purported health benefits, primarily as an immune modulator and longevity tonic. In recent years, there has been growing scientific interest in its potential neuroprotective properties, including application to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease (AD).

Animal studies and in vitro experiments have suggested that extracts from lingzhi may exert neuroprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting neuroinflammation, and modulating amyloid beta aggregation, all of which are implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's. Some polysaccharides and triterpenoids isolated from lingzhi have shown promise in protecting neuronal cells from damage and improving cognitive function in mouse models of AD. Mechanistically, these effects are thought to arise from antioxidant activities, downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase.

However, the current evidence for lingzhi’s efficacy in humans with Alzheimer’s Disease is very limited. Most research has been preclinical, and well-designed clinical trials are lacking. While the scientific rationale exists and early data are promising, there is insufficient high-quality human evidence to fully endorse its use for treating or preventing Alzheimer’s. Therefore, the evidence level is rated as 2—suggestive but preliminary, warranting further investigation.

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