Ganoderma Lucidum and Its Role in Hair Health
Ganoderma lucidum, also known as Lingzhi or Reishi mushroom, is a type of ancient herb called the spiritual potency herb in Japan, China, and other countries in Asia. For centuries, this edible fungus has been used with different types of medicinal herbs, such as fo-ti and Maitake mushrooms, to prevent and treat several illnesses and conditions.
The Reishi mushroom is dark and large with a woody texture and glossy exterior. Lucidus is a Latin term that means brilliant or shiny and refers to the varnish appearance of the mushroom’s surface. The mushroom is called Lingzhi in China, while the name for the Ganodermataceae family in Japan is mannentake or reishi.
A long list of health benefits is associated with this medicinal mushroom, including control of cholesterol levels, reduced blood pressure, decreased risk of heart disease, and reduced anxiety. In addition, the Reishi mushroom is also beneficial in some dermatology-related conditions and its benefits for the skin and hair.
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How Ganoderma Lucidum Benefits Your Hair
Reishi mushrooms are a part of the group of natural ingredients known as adaptogens. These adaptogens are believed to offer an extensive selection of beneficial effects on the human body.
The following are some of the benefits associated with adaptogens:
- They keep you mentally alert during the day.
- They can help you improve your sleep at night.
- They improve muscle endurance.
- They can rebuild damaged muscle tissue.
- They encourage protein production.
- They support recovery after physical activities.
- They lessen the free radicals’ effects on cell membranes.
- They help reduce stress levels.
Reishi Mushrooms and Their Effects on Your Hair
Rich in antioxidants, Ganoderma lucidum can protect your scalp from damage from free radicals and environmental toxins. Reduced damage due to free radicals can make your scalp healthier and create a better environment for your hair follicles to grow thicker and stronger hair all over again.
Reishi Mushrooms Lessen Scalp Inflammation
Aside from being an antioxidant powerhouse, Reishi mushrooms also boast anti-inflammatory properties. These mushrooms can also promote blood circulation, allowing more hair-loving nutrients and oxygen to travel to your scalp. It promotes healthier hair growth and, at the same time, reduces the risk of developing scalp conditions like dandruff, eczema, and psoriasis.
Reishi Mushrooms Reverse and Prevent Hair Loss
It has been discovered that Reshi mushrooms can also serve as an inhibitor of Dihydrotestosterone or DHT. DHT is the sex hormone which is a testosterone byproduct once converted by an enzyme named Sa-Reductase.
Suppose the hair follicles have a higher sensitivity to DHT. In that case, the DHT will bind to the hair follicles’ receptors, making them shrink, resulting in androgenetic alopecia or male or female hair loss.
How to Use Lingzhi for Hair Health
It is easy to incorporate Ganoderma lucidum into your everyday routine to benefit your hair. You can reap all the advantages these beloved fungi offer orally or topically.