Triterpenes - Action and Properties
Triterpenes are a group of organic compounds that occur naturally in many plants and fungi, such as Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum). They are among the most important bioactive components that give medicinal plants and mushrooms their health-promoting properties. Triterpenes exhibit a wide spectrum of actions, from anti-inflammatory to anticancer to immune system support. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what triterpenes are, their properties and how they can support the body's health.
What Are Triterpenes?
Triterpenes are compounds made up of six isoprene units, giving a total of 30 carbon atoms in their structure. They are a subclass of terpenes - one of the largest groups of natural organic compounds. They are found mainly in plants, fungi and some animal species, and their function is to protect against pathogen attacks and regulate biological processes.
In the context of mushrooms such as Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), triterpenes play a key role in their health-promoting effects, being responsible for a number of medicinal properties.
Triterpenes - Chemical Composition
Triterpenes are complex compounds that can be divided into different subgroups, depending on their chemical structure. The most important triterpenes found in Reishi are:
- Ganodermic acid: Exhibits strong anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Ganoderin: It has antihistamine properties and supports the health of the immune system.
- Lucidenic acid: It is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress.
These triterpenes exhibit comprehensive effects and are among the main active ingredients in Reishi.
Triterpenes - Action
Anti-inflammatory effect
One of the key actions of triterpenes is their ability to inhibit inflammation. Triterpenes, such as ganodermic acid, can reduce the production of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and cytokines, thereby alleviating inflammatory processes in the body. This effect is particularly beneficial for people suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune diseases or inflammatory bowel conditions.
Anticancer Properties
Studies indicate that triterpenes can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, stimulate apoptosis (natural cell death) and inhibit metastasis. In the case of the Reishi mushroom, triterpenes such as ganodermic acid show strong anti-tumor activity, making it a promising ingredient in cancer supportive therapy. The triterpenes affect various cellular mechanisms that inhibit tumor growth, supporting the body in its fight against cancer.
Support for the Immune System
Triterpenes also have the ability to modulate the immune system, making them a valuable aid in the prevention and treatment of infections. These compounds can stimulate the activity of macrophages, T lymphocytes and NK cells (natural killer cells), which increases the body's ability to fight pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. Thus, regular consumption of triterpenes contained in mushrooms, such as Reishi, can support resistance, especially during periods of increased risk of infection.
Regular consumption of coneflower can support immunity, especially during periods of increased risk of infection, such as flu season, and in people with weakened immune systems.
Liver Protection
Triterpenes, especially those found in Reishi, exhibit strong hepatoprotective properties. They protect liver cells from damage caused by toxins, alcohol and other harmful agents. These compounds can promote the regeneration of liver cells, helping to improve the function of this organ. This makes triterpenes a valuable ingredient in supplements that support detoxification and liver health.
Antihistamine Action
Some triterpenes, such as ganoderine, have antihistamine properties, meaning they can relieve allergic reactions. They work by blocking the release of histamine, which reduces allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching and watery eyes.
Use of Triterpenes in Medicine and Supplementation
Triterpenes are widely used in natural medicine and supplementation due to their powerful biological effects. Medicinal mushrooms, such as Reishi, which are rich in triterpenes, have found use in supportive therapy for inflammation, cancer, liver disease and allergies. Regular use of triterpenes can benefit overall health by supporting immunity, protecting cells from damage and supporting regenerative processes.
ENCANN's products, such as ENCANN Reishi Liquid Extract, contain the full spectrum of Reishi bioactive compounds, including triterpenes, which support immune system health, liver health and protection against oxidative stress
Triterpenes - Summary
Triterpenes are powerful natural compounds that offer broad health benefits. With their anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, immunomodulatory and liver-protective properties, triterpenes play a key role in maintaining the body's health. Their regular consumption, for example in the form of supplements containing mushroom extracts such as Reishi, can help boost immunity, protect against cancer and support liver regeneration.
Supplements containing triterpenes, such as those offered by ENCANN, are an excellent way to incorporate these valuable compounds into your daily routine, supporting the health and longevity of your body.
Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)
The claims made refer to studies on the adaptogens Hericium Erinaceus, Ganoderma Lucidum, Cordyceps Militaris, Ashwagandha and Coriolus Versicolor not on Encann® brand products. These are not claims regarding the medicinal properties of the product offered. In accordance with the wording of EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT REGULATION 1924/2006, verifiable scientific evidence regarding studies on the use of the fungus Sophora Hedgehog- one of the ingredients of the offered product- is presented on this page.
