Polysaccharide-rich medicinal mushrooms have been around forever, and are not a new phenomena, (although of late, they seem to be a buzz in the health and wellness scene). They have been an integral part of Eastern traditional medicine for hundreds of years, and show no signs of slowing down.
Here are our top six picks that you should know about.
1. Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi or Reishi)
A cherished herb considered to calm the mind, enhance meditative practices and promote longevity, among a trail of other health benefits. Try this: Bio-Lingzhi.
2. Inonotus obliquus (Chaga)
Found in some colder regions around the world, the lauded chaga is rich in antioxidants, and is said to support immune function, liver health, brain health and increases longevity. You might like this: BioFinest Organic Chaga Extract.
3. Lignosus rhinocerus ( Tiger’s Milk Mushroom)
As a Malaysian National Treasure, Tiger’s Milk Mushroom has been found useful in treating coughs, asthma, fever, indigestion as well as food poisoning. The mushroom’s root-line tuber is where most of its medicinal qualities are concentrated in. Worth checking out: Bon TigrusMune.
4. Lentinula edodes (Shitake)
Due to its popularity in the culinary scene worldwide, the Shiitake mushroom is probably the most underrated as a medicinal herb when it should be prized as a powerful immune-booster as well as for its anti-aging and anti-cancer properties. You can find shitake mushrooms readily available in most supermarkets and hypermarkets.
5. Agaricus Blazei Murill (ABM)
In a particularly rural area of Brazil, the people there are known to live longer and healthier lives than the average population in the whole of Brazil, and ABM is a common part of the villagers’ diet. Unless you wouldn’t mind an expensive trip to Brazil, try this instead to enjoy the benefits of ABM: Life Factor VITACUETICA
6. Grifola frondosa (Maitake)
Also known as Hen of the Woods or Dancing Mushroom, it has been linked to healthier cell growth and cell turnover, besides being useful in lowering blood pressure and preventing obesity and high cholesterol. Try it in powder form: OM Maitake Mushroom Superfood.
