Introduction and infection

Gendoderma lucidum has worldwide distribution in both tropical and temperate geographical region ,growing as a parasite or saprotroph on a wide variety of trees.The fungus is identified as a series root pathogen of cash crops,forest plantation and tress in natural forest.It enters a trees through wounds,tears and cut parts.The fungus infect a tree root system slowly,break wood component ,such as lignin and cellulose and may take 10-20 years to kill the tree.Older trees and tress suffering from environmental stress are more susceptible to infection.

Mangement

The infection of fungi can be managed by maintaing trees through sound cultural pratices .Each year ,fresh organic mulch should be applied around the base of tress.Mechanical injuries should be avoided to potential hosts.

Uses

The fungus has long history of use for promoting health and logitivity in China ,Japan and other Asian country.In Nepal,it hasnot been used for medicinal purpose.It has been used for cancer,aging,boosting the immune system to prevent or treat infection having high pharmacological effect.However,it is not edible unless it is broken down and powdered and mixed with meals and desert.