Clinical uses Ganoderma Lucidum - Research Paper Example

Clinical Uses of Ganoderma Lucidum Clinical Uses of Ganoderma Lucidum Ganoderma lucidum is categorized as a fungi and it is a very famous part of the herbal medicine practiced in Asia, particularly in China and Japan. This fungus has been used for its vast medical benefits since the last two thousand years. Its clinical advantages have been highlighted by research on human beings, animals as well as on the models of cell culture. Its clinical uses range from its therapeutic benefits in pathological states like cancerous conditions, infections caused by bacteria and viruses, diabetes mellitus, gastric ulcers as well as injuries resulting in the liver due to the harmful effects of chemicals (Benzie & Wachtel-Galor 2011).

Ganoderma lucidum is of clinical benefit in cancer and its studies in animals have shown that it prevents the spread of the carcinoma to sites other than its site of origin as well as it leads to a reduction in the size of the tumor. Furthermore, its additional role in the prevention of angiogenesis has also been noted in the clinical studies. Trials in human beings suffering from cancers have revealed that it enhances the quality of living by improving the immune status of these individuals.

Trials of derivatives of Ganoderma lucidum for infections caused by bacteria and viruses have also proven to show the benefits in relieving diseases caused by these pathogens. An example is the relief achieved by patients suffering from post-herpetic pain which is relieved after the intake of an extract of Ganoderma lucidum. It is also known to have an effect in lowering the blood glucose levels and hence it is effective for patients suffering from diabetes mellitus. Ulcers of the stomach as well as injurious effects of chemicals to the liver are known to heal following the usage of Ganoderma lucidum (Benzie & Wachtel-Galor 2011).

Ganoderma lucidum is an effective therapeutic agent that is being used since many years. It has been proven to be of advantage in diseases ranging from cancers in the human body and diabetes mellitus to bacterial and viral infections. ReferencesBenzie, I. F. F., & Wachtel-Galor, S. (2011). Herbal medicine: Biomolecular and clinical aspects. Boca Raton: CRC Press.