A Review of Bioactive Components and Pharmacological Effects of Ganoderma lucidum

Ganoderma lucidum, a distinguished traditional medicinal herb, has long been recognized for its purported benefits in promoting physical well-being, enhancing stamina, and boosting vitality. However, the mechanistic underpinnings of its antitumor activities and other therapeutic effects remain incompletely understood. Historically, the activation of host immune responses was widely regarded as the sole mechanism by which G. lucidum exerts its anticancer effects. Recent advancements, however, have revealed that its antitumor mechanisms extend beyond immune modulation to include induction of cell differentiation, inhibition of angiogenesis, and other molecular pathways. Despite its established status as a functional food and potential therapeutic agent, G. lucidum remains an underexplored resource in modern nutraceutical and pharmaceutical research. Notably, few bioactive compounds derived from this mushroom have been clinically validated as superior to existing therapies for disease treatment. This review systematically summarizes the primary bioactive components of G. lucidum, including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, peptides/proteins, and sterols and discusses their multifaceted health benefits. Additionally, critical insights into optimizing its industrial applications and evaluating its safety profile are highlighted, emphasizing the need for further research to translate its traditional uses into evidence-based interventions.