When it comes to using food as medicine, whether preventative or curative, knowledge is power. One of the most medicinal kingdoms of nature is the fungi. There are currently 38,000 classified species of mushrooms that have medical benefits, plus they’re packed with nutrients and taste great.
According to a study on the medicinal qualities of known mushrooms (there are still dozens to discover), they are really good for treating diseases related to the immune system: cancer, chronic fatigue, AIDS, hepatitis, flu, etc. All of us, at some point in life, need to strengthen the immune system, and what better way to do it than with delicious mushrooms.
These are some really beneficial mushrooms for health:
1. Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
These mushrooms strengthen the immune system and have antiviral properties. They also help reduce cholesterol. Shiitakes contain lentinan, which not only boosts the immune system but is believed to help slow the growth of tumors. Native to Asia, this mushroom is also a good source of iron and antioxidants that help reduce free radical damage.
2. Fungus reishi (lingzhi)
The reishi It is a well-known Chinese mushroom, also nicknamed «the mushroom of spiritual potency». It has been shown to help heal tumors and reduce blood glucose and cholesterol levels. The reishi it also inhibits the growth of bacteria in the body. It has been used for over 2,000 years not only for its pharmaceutical value, but also for its nutritional value.
3. Lactarius salmonicolor (Russulaceae)
This mushroom has amazing antioxidant constituents, so it contributes to the overall health of the immune system. It can serve as a powerful antiviral.
Four. Coriolus versicolor (Trametes versicolor)
Commonly called «turkey tail», this mushroom is used for cancer treatment. Contains polysaccharide K (PSK) and polysaccharide-peptide (PSP): these elements may help increase survival rates in cancer patients.
5. Morell (morchella esculenta)
High in vitamin D, B and iron, this mushroom contains nutrients necessary to strengthen the immune system.
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