Mushrooms & Fungi

Lingzhi (Reishi)

Also known as Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi, is a fungus that grows in various hot and humid locations in Asia. May benefit your immune and overall health. Shown to also have Anti-cancer properties, could reduce fatigue and depression, may help improve heart health, and may help manage blood sugar levels.

But they can also cause digestive side effects and potentially be unsafe for certain people, including those taking certain medications.

It has various potential health benefits, including boosting the immune system. However, its safety has recently been questioned. Have shown that reishi can affect the genes in white blood cells, which are critical parts of your immune system.

Possible side effects and dangers include:

• nausea

• stomach issues

• diarrhea

• indigestion

Himematsutake (Agaricus Blazei)

Known as “God’s Mushroom.”Shows up in the Amazon rainforest, used by people of this region for bringing longevity and health. Still being researched but is proving to be one of the most helpful anticancer solutions to date. It can be used to improve the body’s insulin intake and decrease insulin resistance in people with Type II diabetes.

Those seeking to lower their cholesterol, improve digestive problems, and reduce the side-effects of chemo should consider this mushroom. It can also e effective in preventing heart disease, osteoporosis (a condition that weakens bones, making them more prone to fractures), and stomach ulcers. Do not use while pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease.

Dosage: for diabetes control, extract 500mg, up to three times a day.

Lion's Mane

Also known as Hericium erinaceus, takes brain food to another level. This species of mushroom has neurotrophic factors which help to support the growth of different neurons. Supports memory and brain performance by stimulating the synthesis of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), a protein that promotes the growth and normal function of nerve cells.

Cordyceps Sinensis

This fungus consumes the larvae of the ghost moth, then it surrounds the caterpillar and produces a mushroom to release its spores. These mushrooms have always been coveted, because they are so rare. In the 1700s, TCM only serves their medicinal magic to nobility and emperors, but these days we have found a way to produce and cultivate them using soy instead of caterpillars, bringing their medicinal properties to the masses. Traditionally they were used to support kidney health, defend against infertility, sexual dysfunction, frequent urination, night sweats, ringing in ears, and fatigue.

Today we use this fungus/mushroom to support hormonal, or endocrine system, and to create a sense of homeostasis during stressful times. This mushroom has been shown to be an energy booster. Some studies show that it increases the body’s production of ATP, which is vital for carrying oxygen to your body and delivering energy to muscles. Still used as an aphrodisiac and supposedly improves overall sexual vigor.

Consuming too many mushrooms can cause anxiety, weakened immune system, and affects to water retention.

DOSAGE

Take in extract form, 20 to 40 drops up to three times a day, or 1 to 2 cups of tea made from ¼ to ½ teaspoon of dried mushroom.

Chaga

Also known as Inonotus obliquus. Offers an array of beta-glucans (soluble fibers that help slow food transit through your intestines) optimal for immune support and has also been used to support healthy skin, hair, and nails. Can also help support anti-aging and youthfulness.

Turkey Tail

Also known as Trametes versicolor. Primarily known for the natural polysaccharides it contains that helps support immune health, liver function, and normal detoxification processes. 

Shiitake

Also known as Lentinula edodes, are loaded with B vitamins that provide tremendous support for the liver, cardiovascular system, immune system, and offer an array of benefits for better skin health.

Maitake

Also known as Grifola frondose and “hen-of-the-woods” for its feathered appearance contains many bioactive compounds and beta-glucans that support healthy cholesterol levels, energy production, immune, heart, and bone health. The texture of this mushroom also makes this species very easy to cook with so you can enjoy the many benefits in a meal or supplement form. Helps to support weight management and healthy blood sugar levels