Medicinal Mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms | Adaptogens
Here in the western world we are constantly finding out new things about nutrition. We are constantly on a search for what is good for us. What can we eat to feel better, to prevent diseases? I do believe that one of our biggest struggles in the western world is stress! I am sure I am not alone to admit that I do not have my stress level under control. I recently started to experiment with adaptogens, also called medicinal mushrooms. They are originally from India and are well known in the Ayurvedic medicine. Adaptogens are kind of like space in my opinion, there is a never ending amount of knowledge about them and I feel we are just scratching the surface. I could write pages about these little fungi but I will spare you the time:) It is also one of those topics that are really fun to have a discussion about. We here at Harvest would like to introduce you to medicinal mushrooms. You have already seen them in raw baked goods on our shelfs. Shortly you will see them for sale in powder form and in more baked goods as well as Tonics.
There are many different kinds out there. I have chosen to start with Reishi the most well known and also a very powerful one.
Reishi:
Reishi is one of the most potent adaptogens available to modern society. Adaptogens are those herbs and substances that increase the body’s resistance to stress and help it overcome all health challenges more quickly. Adaptogens are defined as substances which positively support the body to reduce or increase the body’s actions as appropriate. The Chinese have traditionally claimed that Reishi promotes calmness, centeredness, balance, inner awareness and inner strength. They have used it to improve meditative practices and to protect the body, mind, and spirit so that the adept could attain both a long and healthy life.
“It may prove to be the greatest prevention against cancer because it helps us to protect ourselves by our own power.” Dr. Gabriel Cousens
Reishi is a very potent immune system and longevity tonic. Traditionally used to “nourish the heart and pacify the spirit” In other words keeping the stress level under control. It has also been found to have numerous other health benefits, including:
- Immune-strengthening
- Stress-relieving
- Liver protective
- Improves circulation
- Protective against radiation, free radicals, and other environmental stressors
- Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fatigue, and anti-stress
- Anti-allergic activity
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antibacterial
- Antioxidant, by eliminating hydroxyl free radicals
- Lowers blood pressure
- Enhances bone marrow nucleated cell proliferation
- Cardiotonic action, lowering serum cholesterol levels with no effect on triglycerides, enhancing myocardial metabolism of hypoxic animals, and improving coronary artery hemodynamics
