Effectiveness of Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) in Preventing the Aging Process: A Review Study

Abstract

Background Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a mushroom that has been used in Asian countries for many years as a culinary-medicinal mushroom to treat a variety of diseases. Objective This study aims to review the studies conducted on the anti-aging effects of Reishi. Methods This is a review study. A search was conducted in Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, SID, and MagIran databases for articles published from 1989 to 2023 using the following keywords: Reishi mushroom, G. lucidium, anti-aging, antioxidant activities, free radicals, Results The studies showed that the extracts of Reishi have measurable anti-aging properties, especially in the heart, liver and brain tissues. The anti-aging activity of Reishi is mainly due to its ability to modulate the immune system, scavenge free radicals, inhibit oxidative stress, increase mitochondrial dehydrogenases, strengthen the electron transport chain, and prevent neurodegenerative diseases caused by oxidative stress. Bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides and triterpenes, have been suggested to be involved in the anti-aging activity of Reishi. Conclusion Reishi is a suitable candidate for preparing extracts or compounds with anti-aging properties. However, more in-vivo studies are needed to gain deeper insight into the mechanisms underlying the anti-aging effects of Reishi. In addition, there is a lack of clinical trials in the field of anti-aging effects of Reishi extracts, especially in Iran.