Most of us have enjoyed the humble button mushroom. It can perk up soups and side dishes, and take your pizza to the next level. But the button is only one of thousands of edible mushrooms! In many eastern cultures, they not only use a wide variety of mushrooms in cuisine, but traditional medicines from mushrooms have been highly regarded for a broad spectrum of health benefits. These adaptogens have been used for over 2,000 years in the belief that life should flow effortlessly by allowing each one of us to rise above and reach our true potential for health, productivity and creativity. Sounds great right? Here are a few little known mushrooms that pack a powerful punch when it comes to shifting the balance and improving your health and life.
Maitake Mushroom
The Maitake mushroom has been used by ancient Asian cultures to support normal blood pressure, enhance the body’s immune system and maintain a healthy weight. Research also shows that the extract of the Maitake may have potential benefits in supporting normal cholesterol levels. One of the typical names of Maitake is the “dancing mushroom”. It’s been said that if an individual found one, they would dance for joy due to the benefits offered by this super food.
Chaga Mushroom
The Chaga mushroom has been consumed in tea for thousands of years in the East, where its health benefits are well documented. Sometimes called the “King of Medicinal Mushrooms,” the Chaga is said to stimulate the immune system, and supports normal cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Chaga is known to be incredibly nutritious, rich in vitamins, minerals, and an abundance of active nutrients such as proteins, fiber, copper, calcium, manganese, vitamin D & B5, and Betulin, merely to name a few of its many nutrients. The Chaga is known to be one of the strongest of all antioxidants foods.
Cordyceps Mushroom
The Cordyceps mushroom grows primarily in the mountains of Tibet, where dedicated hunters scour the slopes to find this prized fungi. Based on Chinese and Japanese culture, the Cordyceps have been used as herbal medicine to improve respiratory health, increase oxygen uptake, boost a healthy heart, increase energy, and improve the immune system.
Coriolus Mushroom
Coriolus mushrooms have been used to treat various maladies for hundreds of years in Asia, Europe, and by indigenous peoples in North America. Records show that the Coriolus was brewed as medicinal tea from the early 15th century, during the Ming Dynasty in China. Often referred to as the “Turkey Tail” due to its shape, the Coriolus mushroom is the most widely researched medicinal mushroom due to its ability to boost the immune system. Like the other mushrooms described, Coriolus offers health promoting properties of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and beta-glucans, which is a known immune boosting compound.
Mushroom Magic
Harness the benefits of all of these mushrooms, with the new Mood & Mind Mushroom Magic Blend. It is rich in polysaccharides, amino acids and minerals. Mushroom Magic helps support healthy immune function and energy levels. Try adding a little Mushroom Magic to enhance the flavor, and boost the benefits of:
- Your favorite omelet
- Soups or stews
- Salads
- Sauces
While current scientific and historical research have shown these mushrooms to have a very positive influence on the body, please consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
