Go magazine | Issue 58

They call them "medicinal" for a reason.

HEALTH REPORT

Mushroom magic C haga, lion’s mane, reishi and shiitake are more than just exotic names on a menu - they are powerful medicinal mushrooms. For centuries, traditional Asian medicine has used extracts of chaga (Inonotus obliquus) , lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) , reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) and shiitake (Lentinus edodes) mushrooms as longevity tonics and immune-system boosters. More recently, these medicinal mushrooms have been considered a ‘nootropic’ food, offering cognitive benefits including improved memory and increased alertness. They are also effective adaptogens, meaning that they help the body to adapt to stress, and manage it better.

Chaga: Known as “Gift from God”, this mushroom has long been used in Eastern medical traditions, as well as throughout Russia and Northern Europe. It has antiviral, antimicrobial and anti- inflammatory properties, and is a rich source of polysaccharides, which may offer benefits in treating hypertension and diabetes. It is rich in antioxidants and boosts digestion and clears skin. Lion’s mane: A powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-stimulant, lion’s mane may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and helps digestive health by fighting inflammation. It is also a well-regarded nootropic, supporting neural and cognitive function, it may help improve memory and reasoning, and decrease mental fatigue and fog. Shiitake: These contain lentinan, a distinct type of polysaccharide which stimulates the immune system and helps increase the body’s resistance to bacterial and viral infections. In Japan, shiitake mushrooms are used as anti-cancer drugs, in conjunction with conventional treatments. Reishi: This mushroom can help to enhance immune system and liver function and to lessen fatigue, reduce stress and improve sleep quality and duration. Some evidence suggests that reishi may also improve blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Medicinal mushrooms

Cognitive-mental health. Rich source of polysaacharides, which boost the immune system & increase the body's resistance to bacterial & viral infections. Anti-inflammatory and adaptogen health. Add a teaspoon to a your coffee, tea, herbal beverages, soups or in combination with a nutrient dense cup of Best of the Bone broth. From theherbaldoctors.com At GO VITA LOCATIONS The "Healing Mushrooms" A who's who of organic "medicinal" Shiitake - Chaga - Lion's Mane - Reishi - and a Healing Blend.

How to take them These medicinal mushrooms are now available in powder form, which concentrates their potency and makes them easy to add to soups, pasta or stir-fry sauces, broth or hot drinks, providing a rich, savoury flavour as well as a booster shot of nutrients. Follow the label advice on dosage. • Increase antioxidant activity • Enhance immune function • Help manage blood sugar le vels • Support brain and nerve he • Improve energy and stamin a alth

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