Antioxidant Power and DNA Repair Effects of Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom, Ganoderma Lucidum (w.curt.:Fr.) P. Karst. (aphyllophoromycetideae), in Human Acute Post-ingestion Study

Oxidative stress can damage cells, protein and DNA and is known to be involved in the development and progression of many diseases. Diets rich in plant-based foods are associated with improved health. Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi) medicinal mushroom has been used for centuries in Asia for health promotion and has a wide range of reputed health benefits. This study investigated the antioxidant properties of G. lucidum and its effects on DNA damage and repair in lymphocytes in a cross-over human intervention study. Blood samples were collected from 7 healthy volunteers at 0 (fasting), 90 and 180 min post-ingestion of a single dose (3.3 g) of G. lucidum or water (control). Plasma total antioxidant power and the effect on lymphocyte DNA damage and repair were assessed before and after each treatment. Lymphocytes were harvested immediately after blood collection at 0 and 180 min, oxidatively challenged, then incubated in complete culture medium for DNA damage repair. Results show that intake of G. lucidum caused an acute increase in plasma antioxidant power, but did not significantly affect the level or rate of repair in lymphocytic DNA. These results show that the bioavailable antioxidants absorbed from G. lucidum have no effect on DNA resistance to oxidative stress or repair in vivo.