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History of reishi mushrooms
Reishi mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for more than two thousand years. They were used as a tonic to promote health, longevity, and immunity.
Reishi mushrooms were also consumed to treat a wide range of health conditions, from digestive disorders to fatigue.
The first written account of the use of reishi mushrooms dates back to the Chinese Imperial Medical Encyclopedia from the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). The encyclopedia noted that reishi mushrooms had been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including liver, kidney, and heart diseases.
In the centuries that followed, reishi mushrooms were prescribed for a wide range of health concerns, from fatigue and depression to asthma and cancer.
In traditional Chinese medicine, reishi mushrooms were also believed to improve qi, or life force energy. In recent years, reishi mushrooms have become increasingly popular in the West as a natural supplement.
Research has suggested that reishi mushrooms may help to boost the immune system, reduce fatigue, and protect against inflammation. Some studies have also suggested that reishi mushrooms may help to reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.
Please note: nothing we say here is to be taken as a health claim. We always encourage people to do their own research and seek expert health advice from a trusted provider.
Potential Benefits of Reishi Mushrooms
1. Boosts Immunity: Reishi mushrooms are high in polysaccharides and triterpenes, compounds that help boost the immune system. They have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years to help protect the body from viruses and infections.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Reishi mushrooms contain beta-glucans, which have been known to reduce inflammation in the body. This can help reduce inflammation-related issues like arthritis and asthma.
3. Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Reishi mushrooms have been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety levels. This is likely due to their ability to regulate hormones like cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone.
4. Improves Heart Health: Reishi mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health. This can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
5. Enhances Cognitive Function: Reishi mushrooms are thought to improve cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain. This can help improve focus, concentration, and memory.
6. Kidney and Liver Support: Like other medicinal mushrooms (cordyceps and chaga), reishi is known to help support the kidneys and the liver.
7. Sleep and Insomnia: Reishi is one of the most powerful sleep tonics on earth so taking a little before bed (in some warm milk) can do wonders for your sleep. Try adding also a scoop of Perfect Collagen and a scoop of Perfect Magnesium if you still have difficulties with sleep.
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22593926/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/reishi-mushroom-benefits
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326520
https://draxe.com/nutrition/reishi-mushroom/
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-reishi-mushrooms
Disclaimer: the information in this article is intended purely as information and not health advice. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, prevent or cure and one should always seek expert advice from their trusted health practitioner.