Michael Davis
The mushroom of immortality, also known as the Ganoderma mushroom or reishi in Japanese and lingzhi in Chinese, has been revered for its life-prolonging properties for over 2,000 years. In Taoist philosophy, the lingzhi mushroom is considered the plant of immortality, believed to enhance one's life force or qi. Modern scientific studies have found that psilocybin, a compound derived from psychedelic mushrooms, can increase the lifespan of human cells and elderly mice by over 50%. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, and further research is needed to determine the anti-aging benefits for humans.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common names | Mushroom of Immortality, Reishi (Japanese), Lingzhi (Chinese), Ganoderma |
| History | Revered for over 2,000 years, with evidence of use in Neolithic China 6,800 years ago |
| Uses | Treatment for flu, cancer, inflammation, and mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and addiction |
| Benefits | Improved longevity, health markers, and quality of life in later years |
| Scientific Evidence | Psilocybin, a compound in psychedelic mushrooms, increased the lifespan of human skin and lung cells by over 50% in a study by Emory University researchers |
| Mouse Studies | Psilocybin treatment improved survival of aged female mice (19 months old, equivalent to 60-65 human years). After 10 months of treatment, 80% of treated mice were alive compared to 50% in the control group |
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What You'll Learn
Lingzhi, the ancient 'mushroom of immortality'
The lingzhi mushroom, also known as reishi, is a polypore fungus native to East Asia. It is believed to confer longevity and has been used as a symbol of longevity on Chinese ceramic ware. In ancient times, Taoist temples were called "the abode of mushrooms", and according to their mystical teachings, consuming the woody mushroom zhi (Ganoderma) or lingzhi in a concentrated decoction allowed followers to see spirits or become spirits themselves by receiving the magical energy of the immortals. The name "lingzhi" in Chinese represents a combination of spiritual potency and essence of immortality and is regarded as the "'herb of spiritual potency', symbolizing success, well-being, divine power, and longevity.
In traditional Chinese medicine, lingzhi is believed to have various health benefits, including controlling blood glucose levels, modulating the immune system, hepatoprotection, and bacteriostasis. These beliefs are largely based on anecdotal evidence, traditional use, and cultural mores. However, recent reports provide scientific support for some of the ancient claims of the health benefits of lingzhi. For example, a study published in Nature Partner Journals' Aging found that psilocin, a metabolite formed when psilocybin (the psychoactive compound in psychedelic mushrooms) is consumed, increased the lifespan of human skin and lung cells by over 50%.
In addition to its potential longevity benefits, lingzhi has also been attributed with therapeutic properties such as tonifying effects, enhancing vital energy, strengthening cardiac function, increasing memory, and anti-aging effects. According to the State Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China (2000), G. lucidum acts to replenish Qi, ease the mind, and relieve cough and asthma, and it is recommended for dizziness, insomnia, palpitation, and shortness of breath.
While wild lingzhi is rare and was once forbidden to commoners, techniques for cultivating the fungus were transmitted across China in the late 20th century, and its use has rapidly spread throughout Asia and elsewhere. Today, a variety of commercial G. lucidum products are available, including powders, dietary supplements, and tea.
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Psilocybin increases human cell longevity
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound produced by hallucinogenic mushrooms, has gained attention for its potential therapeutic benefits in treating psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Recent studies have revealed a new dimension to its capabilities, suggesting that psilocybin may increase human cell longevity and promote longevity in general.
In a groundbreaking discovery in the field of ageing, researchers at Emory University found that psilocybin significantly extends the lifespan of human cells and elderly mice. The study, published in Nature Partner Journals' Aging, revealed that psilocin, a metabolite formed when psilocybin is consumed, increased the lifespan of human skin and lung cells by over 50%. Treated lung cells took 57% longer to reach senescence compared to untreated cells, while treated skin cells exhibited a 51% increase in longevity.
The study also demonstrated positive results in mice. Female mice aged 19 months (equivalent to 60-65 years in humans) were given monthly doses of psilocybin. After 10 months, 80% of the treated mice were alive, compared to 50% in the control group. The treated mice also displayed fewer signs of ageing, such as improved fur quality and fewer white hairs.
These findings provide strong preclinical evidence that psilocybin may contribute to healthier ageing, offering not just extended lifespan but also improved quality of life in later years. This discovery holds significant implications for the anti-ageing industry, which has been fuelled by a flood of supplements and generated over $500 million in revenue last year.
While the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be fully understood, the potential of psilocybin in delaying senescence and promoting longevity is an exciting development in the field of ageing science. Further research will help elucidate the systemic impacts of psilocybin and its active metabolite, psilocin, on biological ageing and overall health.
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Psilocybin improves survival of aged mice
Psilocybin, the naturally occurring psychedelic compound produced by hallucinogenic mushrooms, has been the subject of recent studies exploring its therapeutic potential to treat psychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions. While its underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear, recent research has provided experimental evidence that psilocybin treatment extends cellular lifespan and improves survival rates in aged mice.
In a recent study conducted by researchers at Emory University, female mice aged 19 months (equivalent to 60–65 human years) were given a low dose of 5 mg/kg of psilocybin in the first month, followed by monthly high doses of 15 mg/kg over a 10-month period. The results indicated that the psilocybin-treated mice exhibited a higher survival rate compared to the control group, with 80% survival compared to 50% in the untreated group.
The psilocybin-treated mice also displayed improved physical characteristics, including better fur quality, fewer white hairs, and hair regrowth. These findings suggest that psilocybin may have the potential to impact multiple hallmarks of aging, such as reducing oxidative stress, enhancing DNA repair responses, and preserving telomere length, which could help prevent age-related diseases.
The study provides preclinical evidence that psilocybin may contribute to healthier aging, not just by extending lifespan but also by improving the quality of life in later years. This research opens up new avenues for exploring the long-term effects of psilocybin treatment and its potential benefits for healthy aging. Further clinical trials and research in older adults are warranted to fully understand psilocybin's systemic effects and its potential as a potent geroprotective agent.
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Ganoderma species and their effects
Ganoderma, also known as Lingzhi or Reishi, is a diverse genus of fungus that has been used in traditional medicine for over 2000 years. It has been recognised as a medicinal mushroom for just as long, with its powerful effects documented in ancient scripts. The Ganoderma genus contains around 200 species, which are distributed worldwide and exhibit considerable morphological variations.
Some common species of Ganoderma include G. lucidum, G. tsugae, G. colossus, G. meredithae, G. resinaceum, G. sessile, and G. oregonense. G. lucidum, the type species of the Ganoderma genus, is very common in tropical areas. It is believed to have various health benefits, including lipid-lowering and antioxidant effects due to its triterpene content. G. lucidum products are available in various forms, such as powders, dietary supplements, and tea. The health benefits of G. lucidum are largely based on anecdotal evidence, traditional use, and cultural mores. However, recent scientific reports have provided support for some of the ancient claims of its health benefits. For example, it has been used for cancer treatment and is believed to have immunopotentiating, antitumor, antioxidant, and antimutagenic activities due to its germanium content.
Other Ganoderma species, such as G. zonatum and G. applanatum, are known for their detrimental effects on trees. G. zonatum is infamous for its deadly effect on palm trees, while G. applanatum is a common cause of decay and death in various tree species, including beech, poplar, apple, elm, chestnut, and oak.
While the specific effects of different Ganoderma species vary, the genus as a whole has been the subject of recent scientific interest for its potential benefits to human health and longevity.
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The mental health benefits of psilocybin
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, has been the subject of numerous studies exploring its potential therapeutic benefits. While many of these studies have focused on neurological and psychological outcomes, there is also growing evidence of its positive impact on systemic ageing processes, suggesting that it may promote healthy ageing and address age-related diseases.
Anxiety and Depression
Psilocybin has been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. A 2020 analysis of four small studies involving 117 individuals, most of whom had life-threatening cancer, concluded that psilocybin combined with psychotherapy may alleviate anxiety and depression. Similarly, a 2023 study of 104 individuals with depression found that a single dose of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy led to rapid and lasting symptom reduction.
Addiction
Psilocybin has also shown promise in addressing addiction. The 2020 analysis mentioned above suggested that psilocybin, when combined with psychotherapy, may help reduce alcohol misuse and improve overall quality of life.
Existential Distress
For individuals facing life-threatening illnesses or palliative care, psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy may provide relief from existential distress. This form of therapy has been found to improve psychological functioning and overall well-being, enhancing one's ability to cope with the emotional and spiritual challenges associated with terminal illnesses.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Scores of anecdotal studies have indicated that psilocybin can be beneficial for individuals suffering from PTSD. By altering one's perspective and reducing fear, psilocybin may help individuals process traumatic experiences and find relief from the symptoms of PTSD.
While the exact mechanisms behind psilocybin's therapeutic effects are still being explored, the "psilocybin-telomere hypothesis" suggests that it may influence telomere length. This hypothesis posits that by potentially impacting telomere length, psilocybin could have systemic effects beyond the neurological and psychological realms, contributing to its efficacy in treating a wide range of conditions.
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Frequently asked questions
The mushroom of immortality, also known as the lingzhi mushroom, is a group of fungi that break down wood or cause white rot on certain tree species. Humans have used it for thousands of years to treat anything from the flu to cancer.
According to a study by Emory University, the mushroom of immortality has been found to extend the lifespan of human cells and elderly mice. The study revealed that the psychedelic compound psilocybin, found in the mushroom, increased the lifespan of human skin and lung cells by over 50%.
The mushroom of immortality has been used to treat various ailments, from the flu to cancer. It is also marketed as a superfood due to its promising immune-boosting effects. Additionally, it is said to positively affect the life-energy or Qi of the heart, repairing the chest area and benefiting those with a knotted and tight chest.
While the mushroom of immortality has been used for thousands of years, it is important to note that there may be risks involved. Scientists have raised concerns about the potential ecological impact of commercial Ganoderma fungi escaping into the environment, as they could damage local ecosystems and trees used in agriculture.
