Reishi Folklore

Clarifying these Ganoderma Species for Their Folklore and Medicinal Uses

1. Ganoderma lingzhi (Traditional Reishi or Lingzhi)

Ganoderma lingzhi is the species traditionally known in China and East Asia as the “Reishi” mushroom (also known as Lingzhi in Chinese, Mannentake in Japanese). It is the medicinal mushroom most commonly associated with immortality, longevity, and spiritual power in Taoist, Buddhist, and Shinto traditions.

• Regional and Phylogenetic Clarification: As you pointed out, Ganoderma lingzhi was long mistaken for Ganoderma lucidum, especially in earlier botanical classifications. However, recent molecular studies have clarified that the species commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Japanese herbalism as Reishi is actually Ganoderma lingzhi, not Ganoderma lucidum. This distinction was made clear through molecular and chemical studies showing that the Ganoderma specimens from East Asia (especially Japan, Korea, and China) that were traditionally identified as G. lucidum are in fact G. lingzhi (Cao et al., 2012; Kwon et al., 2016).

• In Chinese Folklore: The Lingzhi mushroom is deeply embedded in the Chinese tradition as a symbol of longevity, immortality, and spiritual growth. Lingzhi was historically sought after by emperors like Qin Shi Huang in his quest for the elixir of immortality. In Taoist culture, Lingzhi is associated with immortal beings, who are often depicted with the mushroom, symbolizing their ability to transcend death. In Chinese medicine, it is believed to promote vitality, calm the spirit, and balance Qi.

• In Japanese Folklore: Known as Mannentake, meaning “Ten Thousand Years Mushroom,” Ganoderma lingzhi is similarly revered in Japan. It is considered a symbol of longevity and health, often associated with Shinto and Buddhist practices. It is also linked to spiritual protection, with some stories suggesting that consuming it brings divine wisdom and spiritual enlightenment.

2. Ganoderma lucidum (European Reishi)

Ganoderma lucidum is a species native to Europe and parts of Northern and Southwestern China. Historically, G. lucidum was often confused with G. lingzhi, and many of the Reishi mushrooms used in medicinal practices outside of East Asia were misidentified as G. lucidum.

• Geographical Distinction: Ganoderma lucidum is now known to be geographically restricted to Europe and northern China, particularly the western regions of China. The Ganoderma specimens that have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Japanese herbalism for thousands of years (like Lingzhi or Reishi) actually belong to Ganoderma lingzhi, not Ganoderma lucidum (Yang and Feng, 2013; Zhou et al., 2015).

• Medicinal Use and Confusion: While Ganoderma lucidum was historically referred to as Reishi in some Western literature, it is not as closely tied to the traditional spiritual and medicinal practices of East Asia. This species is still utilized for its immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties but lacks the legendary status of Ganoderma lingzhi in the context of spirituality and longevity. Recent studies (like Hennicke et al., 2016) have shown that the G. lucidum specimens often sold as Reishi in the West are chemically distinct from the true Ganoderma lingzhi, which contains more medicinal compounds, particularly triterpenes and polysaccharides.

3. Ganoderma tsugae (Tsuga Reishi)

Ganoderma tsugae, also known as Hemlock Reishi, is a species found primarily in North America, although it is also present in parts of Asia. It grows primarily on hemlock trees, which gives it its name.

• Regional Significance: Ganoderma tsugae is found in Eastern North America, particularly in temperate forests where it grows on the trunks of hemlock trees. It is often used in Native American herbal traditions and is valued for its healing properties. In these cultures, it is commonly used as a remedy for conditions like coughs, digestive issues, and respiratory ailments.

• In East Asia: While Ganoderma tsugae has less significance in East Asian folklore compared to Ganoderma lingzhi, it is still sometimes recognized for its medicinal qualities, especially in more rural or remote areas. It shares many of the same medicinal properties as Ganoderma lingzhi and Ganoderma lucidum, such as immune system modulation and anti-inflammatory effects, but is often less celebrated in the spiritual and legendary contexts that Ganoderma lingzhi holds in China and Japan.

The Medicinal and Chemical Distinction Between the Species

One of the key factors distinguishing these species, particularly Ganoderma lingzhi and Ganoderma lucidum, is the chemical composition of the mushrooms. Recent molecular studies and chemical analyses have shown that Ganoderma lingzhi (the “true” Reishi used in traditional East Asian medicine) has a higher concentration of active compounds, such as triterpenes and polysaccharides, which contribute to its higher medicinal value (Cao et al., 2012; Hennicke et al., 2016).

• Ganoderma lingzhi has been shown to contain more potent triterpenic acids, compounds believed to play a role in its medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects.

• Ganoderma lucidum has a lower concentration of these compounds and, while still used for medicinal purposes, is considered to have slightly less therapeutic potential in traditional uses, such as in the form of Reishi tea or extracts.

Conclusion: The Cultural and Medicinal Significance of the Three Ganoderma Species

To summarize the differences and folklore surrounding the Ganoderma species:

• Ganoderma lingzhi: The true Reishi or Lingzhi mushroom, deeply tied to Chinese, Japanese, and Taoist and Buddhist traditions. It is the medicinal mushroom used for longevity, immortality, and spiritual cultivation, and it is the one most commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Japanese herbalism.

• Ganoderma lucidum: While often referred to as Reishi in the West, G. lucidum is geographically distinct and is typically found in Europe and Northern China. It has some medicinal value but is less potent than Ganoderma lingzhi in terms of chemical composition and its connection to spiritual practices.

• Ganoderma tsugae: Known as Tsuga Reishi or Hemlock Reishi, this species is more commonly found in North America and has some traditional use among Native American groups, although it is not as culturally significant in East Asian folklore.

The modern recognition of Ganoderma lingzhi as the true Reishi mushroom has important implications for its medicinal use, particularly in the context of health supplements and traditional healing. Understanding the differences between these species is crucial for anyone exploring their historical significance and medicinal properties.