This paper presents the current state of knowledge on the biological activity and possible medicinal applications of selected species of the genus Ganoderma: Ganoderma adspersum (Schulzer) Donk, Ganoderma applanatum (Pers.) Pat., Ganoderma carnosum Pat., Ganoderma lucidum (Curtis) P. Karst., Ganoderma pfeifferi Bres., Ganoderma resinaceum Boud. These inedible, wood-decaying fungi are pathogens that cause the enzymatic decomposition of wood. They are a valued natural medicinal resource and have been used in traditional Far Eastern medicine for centuries. Research conducted on these species using modern analytical methods has led to advances in knowledge of the potential therapeutic use of compounds isolated not only from basidiocarps but also from biomass obtained by in vitro methods. Recent pharmacological studies have confirmed the known traditional uses of these species, elucidated previously unknown mechanisms of biological action, and found evidence of new biological activities, such as anticancer, cytotoxic, antiallergic, and neuroprotective activities. Furthermore, the article updated the state of knowledge on the general mycological characteristics of these species.

This study presents the current knowledge on chemical composition, biological activity, and possible medicinal applications of Phellinus igniarius, Phellinus pini, Phellinus pomaceus, and Phellinus robustus. These inedible arboreal species are phytopathogens that cause the enzymatic decomposition of wood. These species belong to the medicinal mushrooms and have been known for centuries in the traditional medicine of the Far East. They have been used as an effective remedy for stomach and intestinal ailments, diarrhea, and hemorrhages. Mycochemical studies have proved the presence of polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. These compounds show biological activities such as anticancer, antioxidant, antiangiogenic, and antiviral. Research studies conducted using modern analytical methods have advanced the knowledge on the potential therapeutic use of compounds isolated not only from the fruiting bodies but also from biomass obtained with in vitro biotechnological methods.