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