|
Reishi
(Ganoderma
sinensis, lucidum, mycelium)
* |
Also known as
Ganoderma, has a broad spectrum of activity in addition to its
immune normalizing actions. As well as being antihepatotoxic, it is
also used for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (disturbed
shen) and for lowering cholesterol levels. The “kingly remedy” is
also used to treat altitude sickness, allergies, insomnia and
leukopenia. |
|
Chaga
(Inonotus
obliquus) * |
Little-known
in Western herbal medicine, but has been used by indigenous peoples
in Canada, the northern US, Scandinavia and Siberia for thousands of
years. Traditional practices have found it especially helpful in
treating Cancer. It is a rich source of betulin, which has shown
broad spectrum anti-tumor activity with virtually no toxicity.
|
|
Shiitake
(Lentinula edodes) * |
Has long been
revered as a food and medicine. In Japan, Shiitake is used as a
dietary aid for cancer, to lower cholesterol levels and to protect
the liver from environmental toxins. This mushroom can be used to
reduce bronchial inflammation, lower blood pressure and inhibit
viral growth.
|
|
Maitake
(Grifola frondosa) * |
Or Hen of the
Woods is an excellent wild edible mushroom with powerful medicinal
activity. Maitake lowers blood pressure, normalizes the immune
system (hypo or hyper activity); it enhances macrophage, N-killer
cells and T-cells and has been useful in therapy for AIDS, cancer
and hypertension. Maitake's liver protecting activity makes it an
excellent part of any hepatitis protocol.
|
|
Cordyceps
(Cordyceps sinensis) *
|
Once reserved
for the royal family of China as a superb tonic to the blood (xue),
kidneys (jing) and lung (Qi). Cordyceps is used by Chinese Olympic
teams to enhance performance, stimulate endocrine function, reduce
fatigue and calm nervousness. It can also be useful for heart
arrhythmias, glomerulo-nephritis and loss of libido.
|
|
Bibliography: |
Hobbs,
C. Medicinal Mushrooms, Santa Cruz, 1995
Willard, T. Reishi Mushroom, Issaquah WA, 1990
Ying, Mao, Ma, et.al. Icones of Medicinal Fungi from
China,
Beijing, 1987 |
|
*Herbal
Therapeutics Research Library
Author: David Winston (RH) AHG
©2007
Herbal Therapeutics Research Library. All rights reserved |
Disclaimer: The information on
historical, ethnobotanical and phytotherapeutic uses of herbs and
traditional formulas contained herein is based on the experience and
research of the author. It is not intended as a substitute for
consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Any
attempt to diagnose and treat an illness should be done under the
direction of a health care professional. The publisher and author
are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences
resulting from the use of any of the information discussed. Should
you have any questions concerning the appropriateness of any
preparation mentioned, the author strongly suggests consulting a
professional health care advisor. |