Exploring the health benefits of Ganoderma: antimicrobial properties and mechanisms of action

Author: mycolabadmin
7/18/2025
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Summary

Ganoderma is a medicinal mushroom that has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years and is now being studied for its ability to fight infections. The mushroom contains special compounds like polysaccharides and triterpenoids that can kill harmful bacteria and fungi in multiple ways—by breaking down their cell walls, stopping them from reproducing, and boosting your immune system. Scientists have found that Ganoderma works against many dangerous bacteria including antibiotic-resistant strains, and it may offer a natural alternative to conventional antibiotics as antibiotic resistance becomes a major global health problem.

Background

Ganoderma is a well-known medicinal mushroom used in traditional East Asian medicine for thousands of years. Its antimicrobial properties have garnered significant attention in modern scientific research due to rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a global health threat. The mushroom contains rich bioactive compounds including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds, proteins, and peptides.

Objective

This review focuses on exploring the mechanisms of action and bioactive compounds responsible for Ganoderma’s ability to inhibit various pathogenic microorganisms. The work aims to synthesize recent findings on antimicrobial properties and highlight Ganoderma as a promising natural antimicrobial agent in the context of rising antibiotic resistance.

Results

Polysaccharides, triterpenoids, proteins, and phenolic compounds in Ganoderma exhibit strong antimicrobial effects by targeting bacterial cell walls, disrupting membrane integrity, and inhibiting key microbial enzymes. These compounds are effective against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and various fungi. Triterpenoids demonstrate efficacy in modulating immune responses, enhancing the body’s defense mechanisms against infections.

Conclusion

Ganoderma represents a promising natural source of antimicrobial agents with potential applications in treating various infections. While in vitro and in vivo studies strongly support its antimicrobial properties, large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and explore synergistic effects with conventional antibiotics. Establishing standardized dosages and exploring molecular pathways will be key to incorporating Ganoderma into clinical practice for infection control.

Published in:Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology,
Study Type:Review,
Source: PMID: 40756033, DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2025.1535246