Evidence supporting the use of: Ganoderma
For the body system: Adrenal Cortex

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Synopsis

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

Ganoderma, commonly known as Reishi mushroom, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for overall vitality and resilience, which encompasses support for the adrenal cortex as part of managing stress and fatigue. Historically, Reishi has been used as a "shen tonic," meaning it was believed to calm the spirit and strengthen energy reserves, indirectly suggesting support for adrenal function. However, direct scientific evidence specifically linking Ganoderma to enhanced adrenal cortex function is limited. Most research has focused on its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties. Adaptogens are thought to help the body adapt to stress, which may involve the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, but studies do not explicitly confirm a direct effect on the adrenal cortex.

Some animal studies suggest Ganoderma extracts may modulate stress responses, but clinical trials in humans are scarce and generally do not isolate adrenal cortex markers as primary endpoints. Therefore, while its use for stress and fatigue is well-established in tradition, and there is some indirect evidence for adaptogenic effects, scientific validation for direct adrenal cortex support remains insufficient. Usage in this context is primarily justified by traditional practices rather than robust clinical data.

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