14 DAY TRIAL // This might be a tad difficult to believe, but that odd-looking mass featured in the photos accompanying this article is a mushroom. A so-called Lingzhi mushroom that was just days ago found in China, to be more precise.
The ginormous mushroom, whose official name is Ganoderma lucidum, measures as much as 107 centimeters (42 inches) across at its widest point. What's more, it tips the scale at about 7.45 kilograms (approximately 16.4 pounds).
Presently, the fleshy fungus is enjoying its 15 minutes of fame. Thus, it is on display at a shop in the city of Hezhou in the country's Guangxi province. The bad news is that it will soon be destroyed and turned into traditional medicine.
As explained by DM, people in China have been using such mushrooms to treat all sorts of conditions for nearly two millennia. They believe that these fungi are so effective in helping folks stay healthy that they call them immortality mushrooms.
Thus, it is said that Lingzhi mushroom can treat allergies, asthma, cough and infections. Besides, the fungi are believed to contain chemical compounds that can lower blood pressure, put a leash on natural aging processes and even cure cancer.
The humongous mushroom now on display in the city of Hezhow is estimated to be worth about $894 (€755). Before selling it to people as a treatment for various illnesses, shop owner Wei Fangning will dry it and grind it into a fine powder.
