“Mushroom of Longevity in Changdeokgung” by Nathan
Reishi Mushrooms/ Ganoderma lucidium/ Ling Zhi – Years ago, a professor of mine called reishi mushroom the single most healing food in the world. A pretty bold statement from a brilliant teacher, but this magic mushroom is definitely way up there on the list. Reishis are very rich in triterpenes (including ganoderic acids), vitamin D2, unsaturated fatty acids, ergosterol compounds, coumarin, Beta 1,3 D glucan. Check out this list of beneficial properties: anti-tumor, anti-coagulant, anti-parasitic, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-diabetic, anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, lowers bad cholesterol (LDL and VLDL), raises good cholesterol (HDL), lowers triglycerides, balances blood insulin and glucose levels, liver protective and detoxifying, promotes longevity, reduces anxiety and promotes healthy sleep. In Chinese Medicine, it is called the “mushroom of immortality” and its use goes back over four thousand years.
The usual amount taken of reishi is about three grams two to three times per day. As with other medicinal mushrooms, preparation should include high temperature water extraction. The most commonly available preferred brands are NAMMEX and Eclectic Institute (1800 952 7921). New Chapter Brand is also good and is available at most natural food stores.
Good Health,
Joe
Joe has written several other articles on Superfoods and Phytonutrients, for other articles in this series see The Magic Mushrooms, Navigating the Nutrition and Green and Red Juices.
6 Responses
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I’m going to have to try this out. I love mushrooms. I can always tell there is a positive brain chemistry reaction when I eat them. Somehow they elevate my mood. Thanks for the good advice.
It’s amazing how many wonderful properties it contains. Thank You!!
Hi Marc and Darren, thank you for your comments. These mushrooms are total powerhouses. Many herbal healers and shamans from traditional cultures believe that much of our wisdom, linguistic ability, and insight originates directly from consuming these types of mushrooms. Keep on reading, more to come!
Good Health,
Joe
I am trying to get ahold of Marc Alexander. It would seem I have an old email address. Please advise. Merci.
What is better, Eclectic Institute freeze-dried veggie caps or the liquid?
Hi Ron, both are great products, I would pick the liquid as my first choice and the freeze dried as a close second. Bear in mind that the liquid has a certain amount of organic grape alcohol, so if your system is sensitive to alcohol, add it to very hot water or organic herbal tea(no milk), and the alcohol will evaporate off pretty quickly. Otherwise, you can just go with the freeze dried.
Good Health,
Joe