Artist's Conk (Ganoderma applanatum)

Not just for writing notes in the forest

Introduction

Ganoderma applanatum, which most of us know as “artist's conk,” is a very common polypore fungus found across the globe in the northern hemisphere. It is the lesser-known cousin of G. lucidum (aka reishi or lingzhi - 靈芝 ), which is extremely famous and originated in Asia. This species is, however, an important medicinal fungus in its own right with both folk traditions and substantiated by scientific research. I wanted to talk about this fungus because it is 1) very common, 2) very useful, and 3) due to the extensive research on lingzhi, it has taken a back seat to this famous cousin.

Typical Artist’s Conk presentation | Sept. 2023 | Western Massachusetts, USA

Mycology of Ganoderma applanatum

G. applanatum is a fungus that belongs to the Ganodermataceae family. It is characterized by its distinctive woody fruiting body, which is perennial and typically semicircular with a dark to light brown upper surface. The underside is white, but when rubbed turns brownish/black, thus one can draw pictures or write one’s name on this surface; hence the name “artist’s conk”. It is on the white underside where spores are released. This species primarily grows on hardwood trees, stumps, and fallen logs, playing a vital role in the decomposition of wood in the forest.

Comparison with other Ganoderma species:

• G. applanatum is distinct from other Ganoderma species due to its unique semicircular and relatively flat fruiting body, which distinguishes it from the shelf-like structures of G. lucidum (reishi) and G. tsugae (hemlock varnish shelf).

• G. applanatum has a matted finish on its upper surface, whereas G. lucidum has a glossy finish on top.

• Unlike G. lucidum, which is commonly cultivated for medicinal use, G. applanatum is more often harvested from the wild.
  

Scientific Research Data

Scientific research has provided valuable insights into the medicinal properties of G. applanatum. Some key findings include:

a. Immunomodulatory Effects:

• Studies have shown that G. applanatum contains bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides and triterpenes that may enhance immune function.

• These compounds are believed to stimulate the production of immune cells and cytokines, potentially aiding in the body's defense against infections and cancer.

b. Antioxidant Properties:

• G. applanatum is rich in antioxidants, including phenolic compounds, which can scavenge harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.

• These antioxidants may contribute to its anti-aging and neuroprotective effects.

c. Anti-Inflammatory Activity:

• Research suggests that extracts from G. applanatum may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.

d. Antimicrobial Effects:

• Some studies have reported antimicrobial properties in G. applanatum extracts, suggesting potential applications in combating bacterial and fungal infections.

e. Potential Anticancer Activity:

• Preliminary research indicates that G. applanatum extracts may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancerous tissue.

Rare stalked presentation | September 2023 | Western Massachusetts, USA

G. applanatum is certainly well-worth further consideration, both by practitioners and scientists. There is already enough research to suggest it has significant potential for use in a wide variety of ailments. Mushrooms are a great source of potential medicinal qualities and this one is both common and abundant. Like other mushrooms, picking it is a very sustainable practice, as long as we don’t pick every conk in the forest, because they are the fruiting bodies of the fungus, not the actual living portion. I’m looking forward to boiling some up soon as I prepare for the winter flu season.

Thanks for dropping by to read this. Stay in touch.

Warmly,
Thomas

Edited by Rachael Witt