TOP 7 Sacred Mushrooms - Nature's Secret Weapon

GENESIS HEALTH

TOP 7 SACRED MUSHROOMS

by Catherine DeRoos

TOP 7 SACRED MUSHROOMS

LET FOOD BE THY MEDICINE AND MEDICINE BE THY FOOD. HIPPOCRATES

(460-377

B.C.)

Genesis 1:29 (KJV) And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.

By © Catherine DeRoos

Mushrooms have been a long time favorite addition to my diet. I eat them daily as well as sprinkle 7 Sacred Mushrooms powder in my coffee every morning.

After watching a trailer clip called, “Fantastic Fungi” I thought it would be interesting to look up the benefits of each of the 7 Sacred Mushrooms I put into my coffee.

The benefits are Nature’s Secret Weapon with amazing benefits against microbes, cancers, and faltering immune systems, brain, neurological pathways, anxiety, and so much more.

Catherine DeRoos

210 Johnson Street

Alta, IA 51002

https://genesishealthblog.wordpress.com

Prologue

This booklet takes you on a walk through the woods where these mushrooms are found.

Mushrooms are considered medicine and must be treated with respect while consuming them.

Inside you will find a not so well known internal system from within that actively benefits our central nervous system and our cell’s power mitochondria.

Enjoy the journey!

TOP 7 SACRED MUSHROOMS - Natures

Secret Weapon

Natures Secret Weapon against microbes, cancers, and faltering immune systems.

A fairly hidden superfood (an ancient nutritional powerhouse) has made a come back in recent years. It has been revered, worshipped, and even feared, for thousands of years across many different cultures.

In this next series, I will uncover the TOP 7 Medicinal mushrooms and their myriad of health benefits summed up in the following:

TOP 7 Medicinal Health Benefits

• Immune support

• Full of antioxidants

• Anti-inflammatory

• Helps to manage blood sugar

• Support brain health and cognition

• Support the nervous system

• Increase energy and stamina

You may either love them or hate them, but unless we willing to give them a try, we would be missing out on their nutritional value our bodies would appreciate. Amazingly, there may be more than 10,000 edible mushrooms around the world. In recent times with functional medicine and holistic nutrition going mainstream, we are seeing a resurgence of interest in these marvelous superfoods. Hopefully the above benefits are enough of a reason to try them.

Trees And Mushrooms Need Each Other

Trees talk to each other through mycorrhizal. The medicinal mushrooms tend to grow on trees and have amazing benefits. Though trees may be the celebrities of the forest, they coexist there with other, smaller organisms, some of which are highly valued: wild mushrooms! Did you know that trees talk to each other? How do they communicate without voices? Scientists believe trees exchange messages through mushrooms (fungi) living among their roots in a mutualistic relationship. These fungi form an intricate web of communication amongst tree roots in the forest, helping to distribute messages and nutrients between a wide network of interconnected trees. Some ecologists call this the “nervous system of the forest”.

Microbiologists have identified different species of fungi and bacteria that form symbiotic relationships with different species of trees. Scientists believe all trees have a *mycorrhizal network, but trees only communicate with each

other if the fungal and bacterial species that constitute their mycorrhizal networks are the same.

Mycorrhizal networks are extremely important for tree health during times of danger. Certain species of fungi can facilitate tree resilience to certain environmental stressors such as predators, toxins, and pathogenic microbes that invade an ecosystem. By using a technique called allelopathy, in which a chemical signal is sent through the mycorrhizal network, trees can warn their neighbors about an invasive predator or to inhibit growth of invasive plant species. Surrounding trees can then defend themselves by releasing volatile hormones or chemicals to deter predators or pathogenic bugs. (*a fungus which grows in association with the roots of a plant in a symbiotic or mildly pathogenic relationship.)

So while we stroll through the forest, and we learn to appreciate any variety of this unique superfood and its adaptive health benefits, hopefully you will expand your culinary palate, which is a good thing, because you are really missing out if you don’t.

Edible Mushrooms are well known as part of the fungi kingdom, but are not to be compared to the fungus we know to be destructive to our health. A simple layman’s classification is to divide fungi into mushrooms, yeast, and molds.

What does fungi do? Fungi are classified in their own kingdom since they do not have chlorophyll and cannot make their own food. Fungi secrete enzymes, which digest food found outside the organism, and then the fungi get their nutrients by absorbing them.

There are five phyla that make up the fungi kingdom:

• Phylum Basidiomycota, where mushrooms belong

• Phylum Glomeromycota, which creates a symbiotic relationship with plants (plants provide fungi nutrients while the fungi increase water and nutrients of plants)

• Phylum Zygomycota, which can grow on decaying matter and human food sources (e.g., bread mold)

• Phylum Ascomycota, which can be pathogenic and cause disease (e.g., skin infections like ringworm and

Mushrooms are indispensable fungi that have an unappreciated job of making nutrients accessible to our bodies. They have a way of getting into nooks and crannies that other food’s nutrients cannot. I hope you will continue with me in exploring the benefits of this unique species of food.

TOP 7 SACRED MUSHROOMS - The Mushroom for the Mind

TOP 7 Medicinal Health Benefits

Support brain health and cognition | Support the nervous system | Increase energy and stamina

LION’S MANE

(Hericium erinaceus) The Mushroom for the Mind

Let’s begin our stroll through the forest and learn some amazing benefits of this unique superfood called “Lion’s Mane ” and its adaptive health benefits.

Lion’s Mane mushrooms are multi-faceted healers: antimicrobial (Diterpenes form the basis for biologically important compounds such as retinol, retinal, and phytol known to be anti-inflammatory), anti-hypertensive, antidiabetic, and wound healing properties, among their many therapeutic properties.

Lion’s Mane potential bioactive compounds.

The brain is an amazing organ that has many functions. We use our brains to learn, create, and even remember people’s names. However, the brain can only do so much on its own! That is why it needs a nerve growth factor (NGF) in order to stay healthy and ward off any diseases or abnormalities.

Nerve Growth Factor. Lion’s Mane‘s real claim to fame is as a neuroprotective agent. Lion’s Mane Mushroom prevents and treats nerve damage in the brain. Once past the blood-brain barrier, Lion’s Mane stimulates enzyme production that releases Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). Nerve regeneration helps relieve neurodegenerative disease symptoms such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s Disease. NGF is produced in the hippocampus throughout life. Modulating cholinergic receptors and neuroplasticity is essential for learning.

• Lion’s Mane mushrooms are known to increase NGF protein production. It improves memory and learning ability by increasing NGF production and strengthening the brains structure.

• Lion’s Mane helps keep neurons healthy and can even help grow new ones.

• Lion’s Mane stimulates the repair and creation of neurons (Neurogenesis). Boosting neurotransmitters

Studies have found that two special proteins that can stimulate the growth of brain cells: hericenones and erinacines. They also contain high amounts of the antioxidant beta-glucoxylan and four other polysaccharides and polypeptides. Having a significant impact on enhancing your immune system. And decreasing

Boost Cognitive Function

Hericenones in Lion’s Mane are believed to be responsible for some of the mushroom’s eneficial effects on brain neural networks and improvements to cognitive function. Lion’s Mane does this as it regenerates the Myelin sheath that protects the axons (long thread-like parts) of our nerve cells.

Hericenones prevent neuronal damage caused by amyloidbeta plaques, which accumulate in the brain during Alzheimer’s disease and regulate the brain’s limbic coordination (involved in many of our emotions, motivations related to survival such as fear and anger).

Hericenones, promote cognitive, mitochondrial, and cardiovascular health.

Erinacines components and may have the potential to degenerative diseases of the brain

Lion’s Mane bacteria in our mouth and gut, which make up a large portion of our immune defense. These bacteria help to neutralize the harmful germs and chemicals that often enter our body through the mouth or nose, as we breathe in. ANOTHER

Regenerate Damaged Nerves

Lion’s Mane regenerative capacity in the peripheral nerve has been shown to trigger neurite outgrowth in the brain, spinal cord, and retinal cells. It also stimulates the activity of nerve growth factors, which is important for the growth and differentiation of neurons.

Improve Mood and Sleep Disorders

Among overweight or obese people with sleep disorders or mood disorders, Lion’s Mane was effective in relieving symptoms. Eight weeks of Lion’s Mane supplementation decreased depression, anxity, and sleep disorders in the study, while also improving mood disorders of a “depressive-anxious nature“ and boosting the quality of sleep at night.

Lion’s Mane is anti-inflammatory, including neurogenic/ neurotrophic and anti-inflammatory pathways.

Fights Depression

Lion’s Mane may be an effective complementary and alternative remedy against depression, with research suggesting it

improves depressive disorder through a variety of mechanisms, including neurogenic/neurotrophic and antiinflammatory pathways. A Molecular Sciences concluded supplementation normalized changes in behavior, such as loss of appetite, nervous behaviors, , and procrastination, frequently triggered by high stress. According to the study, “this offers new pathways into depression treatment, and Lion’s Mane may constitute a strong alternative therapy for depression.”

Support for Neurodegenerative Disease

Lion’s Mane mushrooms’ neurotrophic compounds are known to pass through the blood-brain barrier and have been used to treat cognitive impairments, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease.

Lion’s Mane may speed recovery from Nervous System

Injuries

The nervous system consists of the brain, spinal cord, and other nerves that travel throughout the body. These components work together to send and transmit signals that control almost every bodily function. Injuries to the brain or spinal cord can be devastating. They often cause paralysis or loss of mental functions and can take a long time to heal.

Lion’s Mane mushroom extract may help speed recovery from these types of injuries by stimulating the growth and repair of nerve cells.

Protects Against Ulcers in the Digestive Tract

Stomach ulcers are often caused by two major factors: overgrowth of a bacteria called H. pylori

and damage to the mucous layer of the stomach that’s often due to long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Lion’s Mane of stomach ulcers protecting the stomach lining from damage.

Other benefits

Prevents Cholesterol Build-Up. Lion’s Mane extract can help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Oxidized cholesterol molecules tend to attach to the walls of arteries, causing them to harden and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Therefore, reducing oxidation is beneficial for heart health.

Blood Clotting. A compound called hericenone B, can decrease the rate of blood clotting and lower the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Lowers Blood Sugars. One way that Lion’s Mane lowers blood sugars is by blocking the activity of the enzyme alphaglucosidase, which breaks down carbs in the small intestine. When this enzyme is blocked, the body is unable to digest and absorb carbs as effectively, which results in lower blood sugar levels. In addition, it may reduce diabetic nerve pain in the hands and feet.

Lyme’s Disease. Lion’s Mane is also used to treat Lyme’s Disease and digestive tract issues.

We are off to a roaring good start. Hopefully, all this amazing newfound knowledge will expand your culinary palate.

Can Lion’s Mane mushroom help you and me avoid these neurodegenerative diseases and become one of the socalled “super-agers?” You will only know if you try it. Lion’s Mane mushrooms can be consumed in supplement form or used fresh in cooking. While they’re not widely available in the U.S., if you come across Lion’s Mane mushrooms in a specialty shop, don’t hesitate to give them a try.

1. NCBI.NLM.NH.GOV

2. The Sacred Science

3. Pubmed

4. CBI.NIM.NIG.GOV

5. Nature Knows

6. Pubmed.NCBI.NIM.NIH.GOV

7. MSN

8. NCBI.NIM.NIH.GOV

REISHI MUSHROOM

(Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi)

Because of its well-rounded capacity to support numerous systems in the body, herbalists call Reishi the “King of Medicinal Mushrooms“.

Continuing on with our stroll through the forest, let’s learn some amazing benefits of this unique superfood called “Reishi “, why it’s called the King of Medicinal Mushrooms, and its adaptive health benefits.

THE “ENTOURAGE EFFECT” OF ADAPTOGENIC

Reishi (one of the truest adaptogens)

The constituents surrounding this unique mushroom work on a variety of issues in the body. Our Endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays important roles in your body well beyond the process it’s named for. Reishi interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

What Is the Endocannabinoid System?

Let’s look at the word “endocannabinoid.” “Cannabinoid” comes from “cannabis,” and “endo” is short for “endogenous,” which means that it is produced naturally inside of your body. So “endocannabinoid” simply means cannabis-like substances that naturally occur inside us. The ECS itself is made up of three parts:

• Endocannabinoids

• Receptors in the nervous system and around your body that endocannabinoids and cannabinoids bond with

• Enzymes that help break down endocannabinoids and cannabinoids ECS is crucial for Homeostasis. This homeostasis is your body’s efforts to keep everything in the right zone, in harmonic coherence, a state of consistency and orderliness. It tries to keep your internal environment stable and optimal no matter what’s going on in the environment around you. Just like the electronics in a car or plane, your body works continuously to monitor important levels and functions in your body. Is your temperature too high, too low, or just right? Are your hormone levels what they should be? Is your heart beating too fast? Do you need fuel or rest? Is too much of something building up in your bloodstream or inside of your cells?

When something is operating outside of the right range, your body activates the ECS to help correct it. So when you’re really hot and begin to sweat, thank your ECS for working to

cool you down remind you to eat because you need fuel

The ECS does this via cannabinoid receptors found in select tissues. We have (at least) two types of cannabinoid receptors:

• CB1 is in the central nervous system (brain and nerves of the spinal cord)

• CB2 is in the peripheral nervous system (nerves in your extremities), the digestive system, and specialized cells in the immune system

Like a lock and key, the medicinal benefits of Reishi is compared to harmonic electromagnetic frequencies that stimulate receptor sites to unlock a variety of areas in our bodies and brings healing 10x stronger with ripple effects beyond the initial chemical benefit at the local receptor sight.

Cannabinoid receptors are believed to be among the most plentiful in our central nervous system, and some researchers hypothesize that we could have a third, undiscovered one, as well.

Reishi increases the body’s resistance to physical, biological, emotional, and environmental stressors and promotes normal physiologic function.

If you have a weak immune system, Reishi will help boost immune cells and fight any invading pathogens or other physically unpleasant symptoms in the body.

Reduces Stress and Improves Anxiety and Depression

Reishi is known as the ultimate anti-stress herb. It is an important ally in today’s fast-paced and over-stressed world to keep our mental health strong.

Stress can affect our physiology and create disease. It demonstrates the growing evidence that exposure to trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and associated stress responses may lead to increased autoimmune conditions.

Reishi mushroom is regarded as the best “spirit elevating” tonic that positively promotes mental well-being, and calmness helps cultivate more peace, love, and happiness in one’s life, and physiologically transforms negative energy in the body into a positive one.

Reishi’s may help alleviate many of the psychological problems associated with patients dealing with a disease.

Beta-glucans act as precursors to hormones in your body, and triterpenes that turn off your body’s response to allergies. Beta-glucans strengthens your liver and improves your circulation, which in turn supports your ability to filter bacteria and viruses out.

MMUNE SYSTEM

Reishi’s over 200 different polysaccharides, Reishi is one of the greatest tonics for supporting and enhancing the immune system, effectively “regulates” and balances out the body’s immune system, whether in a weakened state (susceptible to colds, flu, viruses, etc.) or an excessive state (auto-immunity). Reishi is neither an immune stimulant nor an immune suppressant, hence why it is called an immune modulator

Reishi

regulating the production of various lymphocytes, T-helper cells, T-killer cells, and macrophages, while also suppressing tumor necrosis

IRUSES – INCLUDING FLU

Reishi is a great flu-fighting herb. It can also be taken to reduce the chances of passing on a cold from you, a loved one, or someone else. Reishi also increases your resistance to infections, viruses, bacteria, fungus, and all other external toxins. Reishi naturally enhances Interferon Alpha and Interferon Gamma, As their name implies, both of these natural proteins produced by your immune system can interfere with viruses by strengthening cell resistance against viral infection, activating immunity cells, and inhibiting viral replication in each of your cells.

EUROENHANCER

Studies from the Neuropharmacology journal, Bio-organic and Medicinal Chemistry journal and the FASEB Journal show:

Reishi mushroom increases nerve growth factor levels in cells which stimulates brain neuron activity.

• Reishi is protective against seizures, and people report feeling increased brain function with clearer thinking after consuming.

• Reishi for just a short time.

TOXIN CRUSADER

inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-cancer properties. In fact, in many Asian countries, Reishi is used alongside, or in place of, pharmaceutical medicines against major diseases such as hepatitis, cancer, autoimmune diseases, heart disease, AIDS, and many types of infections.

• Reishi can boost your immune system

• Reishi can also calm your immune system. So depending on what your body needs at any given moment, Reishi can help.

• Reishi has also been shown to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

The bioactive compounds polysaccharides that it contains

at least 450 – each working or broadcasting synergistically, in a harmonic way, to make this a mushroom worthy of its accolade “the mushroom of immortality or more realistically KING.

• Reishi improves lymphocyte function, which helps fight infections and cancer, in athletes exposed to stressful conditions.

• Reishi impacts white blood cells for immune function.

NTI-CANCER PROPERTIES

Reishi inhibits the proliferation of breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells by suppressing Akt/

• Reishi suppresses proliferation and oxidative stress by extracts of Ganoderma lucidum in the ovarian cancer cell line OVCAR-3. Inhibits cell growth and disruption of cell cycle progression (Pubmed)

• Reishi could be beneficial for prostate cancer due to its effects on the hormone testosterone. A year of treatment with Reishi decreased the number and size of tumors in the large intestine. Several test-tube studies have shown that it can lead to the death of cancer cells.

EAUTY BOOSTER

Gano in Greek means “brightness” and derma means “skin”, while (lucidum) in Latin means “shining”. Together, it quite literally means “bright shining skin” which also speaks to Reishi‘s skin-nourishing benefits. Since Reishi is a great lung tonic, any skin disorders including blemishes or dry skin can be improved by supporting Lung function and by improving breathing. The lungs also play an important role in maintaining the health of the skin.

Studies suggest that Reishi is “radioprotective,” meaning it can protect against the harmful effects of UV radiation and damaging DNA. This suggests the ability to support slow aging of the skin and protect against other skin issues.

how process fat.

• Reishi mushroom extract contains a high content of polysaccharides (starch, cellulose, glycogen), responsible for the skin’s natural ability to hydrate and retain water, and is also imperative for skin repair and renewal.

• The Reishi mushroom extract offers more skin benefits such as reducing skin inflammation, puffiness, wrinkles, and free radical damage, while also promoting cell regeneration.

OOSTS ANTIOXIDANTS AND REDUCES NFLAMMATION

Chronic or long-term inflammation can manifest into a whole host of symptoms, such as redness, swelling, joint pain, or more serious auto-immune conditions, like asthma and arthritis.

Reishi contains many compounds that show antiinflammatory activity including immune-modulating polysaccharides, triterpenes, phenolic compounds, and more.

Reishi’s terpene compounds including Ganoderma A, B, C, and D, Lucidenic acid B, and Ganodermanontriol are all very potent antioxidants.

These powerful substances have been shown to fortify the body by improving oxygen regulation and counteracting the damaging effects of free radical scavengers.

Are you a seasonal sufferer? Would you love to go outside but your body’s reaction to an allergen of one sort or another?

Reishi could be useful for boosting and increasing the function of various physiological and pathological systems.

This report also notes that the Reishi mushroom is of particular value when it comes to:

• Allergy support.

• Triterpenes (plant gums or resins) found in Reishi encourage a balanced histamine response. This can be helpful for people with seasonal allergies or histamine intolerance, as is very common when traveling, and many sufferers find that Reishi works to reduce these symptoms.

NCREASES ENERGY AND REDUCES FATIGUE

Reishi is reported to be beneficial for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) due to its wide-ranging benefits of benefits, supporting and balancing the body’s major systems– the immune system, heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs, lowering inflammation, improving mental capacity, increasing oxygen utilization, and supports detoxification.

Would you agree that less anxiety and depression and better quality of life?

Nutrition and sleep play a huge role in your body’s ability to fight pathogens and recover from illness.

Reishi is a sleep aid and potent immunomodulator (immune function). In order for your body to heal itself and be more productive, you need to get into a deep sleep. Reishi help soothe the nerves and promote a sedative action that can positively affect neurasthenia and insomnia.

• Reishi is good for sleep due to the calming effect Reishi has on the nervous system. Reishi it doesn’t boost total REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep; only non-REM sleep. While all sleep is necessary, REM sleep is the deepest type of sleep you can have at night.

• Reishi functions as an activator of the body’s autophagous (cellular and genetic repair) processes.

• Reishi mushroom supports healthy endocrine functions in the body, which regulate hormones like melatonin and cortisol.

• Reishi is known as a nervine (a type of herb that supports the nervous system) promoting relaxation and preparing the body for a good night’s rest.

IGESTIVE SYSTEM FUNCTION

Reishi into your diet can help support a more normal digestive system function.

Specifically, the study reported that reishi spores

A Clinical Guide suggested that mushroom polysaccharides have a prebiotic effect on the gut microbiome with increases in Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species and decreases in Clostridium, Staphylococcus, and Enterococcus species.

UPPORTS LIVER HEALTH

The liver is the second largest organ in the body and is largely responsible for many detoxifications and digestion processes. The liver acts as a control center in relation to all the other organs. In other words, when the liver is happy, the happiness of all your other organs is a lot more likely.

Reishi mushroom protects and tonifies the liver on many levels. Ganodermic acids A, B, C, and D, lucidenic acid B, and ganodermanontriol are all extremely powerful antioxidants, counteracting the damaging effects of free radicals on the body, and in other words, eliminating a considerable amount of work from the long list of your liver’s jobs.

As a liver tonic, it inhibits the growth of serum cholesterol, which if not controlled could lead to arteriosclerosis, which is the hardening of the arteries when fat and cholesterol build up in your system.

Unless you never indulge in processed junk food, you could deal with emotional stress and excessive lifestyle habits all affecting the liver. tonics.

treatment of hepatitis.

UPPORTS HEART, KIDNEYS, LUNGS, BRAIN

We could all get into a better rhythm of life with good heart health. Reishi compounds have many protective qualities against many of the risk factors associated with heart disease and stroke. Reishi has brought balance and successfully suppressed proteinuria, a sign of kidney disease. Breath more deeply as stress reduces and keep calm long. Stay focused, think sharply, and keep stimulating the production of nerve growth factor.

OTAL BODY SUPPORTER

Research reveals Reishi mushroom supports every cellular function in your body. Yes, every single one!

The list of “conditions” that Reishi has been proven to reduce, support, and eliminate is beyond impressive. Check out the conditions to the right.

We’ve now rounded another corner. Hopefully, all this amazing newfound knowledge will expand your culinary palate.

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TOP 7 MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS – The Olympic Mushroom

CORDYCEPS

Nature’s Secret Weapon against microbes, cancers, and faltering immune systems.

TOP 7 Medicinal Health Benefits

Immune support | Full of antioxidants | Antiinflammatory | Helps to manage blood sugar | Support brain health and cognition | Support the nervous system | Increase energy and stamina

Cordyceps seem to have a wide variety of potential benefits. A 2014 paper reviewing the literature on Cordyceps” benefits show it to have anti-tumor, antifatigue, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, and anti-aging effects – to name a few.

We are about to enter into a thick vigorous terrain through this uphill forest. Take a deep breath, continue slow and steady, and watching your step, we are able to take a closer at this unique superfood called “Cordyceps“. We may even want to taste test along the way to receive the strength to continue moving upward.

Cordycepin

Cordycepin turnover

Two compounds found in ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE (ATP) – WORKS NATURALLY WITH OUR ATP, FOOD FOR THE MITOCHONDRIA. MITOCHONDRIA IS THE POWER HOUSE OF THE CELL. ADENOSINE HELPS IN CELLULAR ENERGY.

Immune Balancing Activity

Cordycepin are also adaptogens. Dr. Israel Brekham, known as the father of modern adaptogen studies, found that adaptogens work by improving the body’s stress response. Adaptogens have an amphoteric (capable of reacting chemically either as an acid or a base) effect in different organ systems. In other words, they help create balance. If your immune system is hyperactive or under-

active, adaptogens may help balance it so it works at an optimal level, for example.

In the 90s, doctors building on Dr. Brekham’s research found that adaptogens work through two major bodily control systems:

1. HPA axis: Endocrine, immune, nervous, digestive, reproductive, cardiovascular systems as well as blood sugar processing.

2. Sympathoadrenal (sim’pă-thō-ă-drē’năl) system: Manages your fight-or-flight response and how you manage stress. It involves the sympathetic nervous system and the adre nal glands, especially increased sympathetic activity that causes increased secretion of epinephrine by the adrenal med ulla and norepinephrine by the postganglionic sympath etic nerve endings.

So that’s how adaptogens work to balance things like blood sugar levels, blood pressure, cortisol levels, energy levels, and immune system, and adrenal glands.

Cordyceps (Militaris) are also known as “alien Cheetos,” and their spores, “Cheeto dust.”

Cordyceps Mushroom

Ophiocordyceps sinensis (wild form). It is one of the most-popular mushrooms being used and is said to have a number of nootropic benefits. There are over 400 species of Cordyceps in the wild.

Nootropics have the ability to:

people having the best sleep of their lives after taking Cordyceps. Users report falling asleep faster, staying asleep longer, and waking up feeling refreshed.

• Non-nootropic benefit of Cordyceps that some people have noticed is an increase in physical endurance.

• 1,3 / 1,6 beta-glucans which help support the immune system by stimulating it.

Therapeutic actions of Cordyceps

AN ADAPTOGENIC EFFECT

Cordyceps are adaptogens with multiple compounds that assist the body in adapting to occasional stress and maintaining balance. They keep the body in ‘cruise control’. Think about cruise control on a car it helps the vehicle maintain a constant speed despite external factors such as inclines or declines, other cars switching lanes, and more.

They help support the body in maintaining homeostasis or a ‘constant speed’ despite occasional external stressors that occur in daily life.

When the immune system is overreacting, as is the case with allergies and auto-immune diseases, Cordyceps can help calm it down. On the other hand, if the immune system

is weak, the mushroom can have the opposite effect, kicking the immune system into gear to help fend off disease. Due to its Cordyceps disease and for immunosuppression after organ transplant. WOW!! This makes it a useful herb in the treatment of autoimmune kidney disease such as IgA nephropathy and lupus nephritis.

Cordyceps for fuel and muscle growth. Supports cellular energy and endurance.. Supporting your body’s production of ATP, the body’s building block of energy for most cellular processes.

Cordyceps may support your body’s response to occasional stress.. Adaptogens are part of a group of plants and mushrooms that supports your adrenals and your body’s natural response to occasional stress.

Cordyceps may support lung capacity and oxygen uptake. Help support healthy levels of oxygen in the bloodstream, healthy levels of oxygen in the bloodstream, and it supports a healthy respiratory system, too!

Cordyceps has been used to support athletic performance. One unofficial name for Cordyceps is “the

Olympic mushroom.” That’s because a group of Chinese athletes cited their use of success.

High levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or oxidative stress is well known to be part of what causes kidney disease and is also implicated in the progression of kidney disease. There is increasing evidence that Cordyceps has antioxidant activity, specifically by increasing the antioxidant enzymes SOD (superoxide dismutase) and boosting glutathione (a coenzyme in oxidation–reduction reactions in cells) levels which might be one of the mechanisms behind the kidney protective effects of Cordyceps.

Anti-inflammatory Activity

Although some inflammation is good, too much can lead to disease. Cordyceps is said to help fight inflammation in the body. Inflammation is well known to contribute to the development and progression of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and lowering inflammation is really important when it comes to healing the kidneys and protecting them from further damage. When human cells are exposed to Cordyceps, specific proteins that increase inflammation in the body become suppressed including for inflammation related damage in CKD- NF-kB (nuclear factor-kappa beta), TNF-a (tumor necrosis factor-alpha) and IL-1B (interleukin-1 beta).

ANTI-FIBROTIC ACTIVITY

Cordyceps has the potential to inhibit renal fibrosis by shutting down inflammatory

pathways produce fibrous scar tissue. Renal fibrosis or scarring occurs after injury to the kidneys from any cause and results in a progressive loss of kidney function and if not prevented or treated, ultimately leads to End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

Improves oxygen uptake Cordyceps helps to get more oxygen into cells and stops the increase in inflammatory molecules like NF-kB which is triggered in hypoxic conditions. A large body of evidence indicates that CKD is driven by reduced oxygen (hypoxia) in the kidneys. Hypoxia sets off a whole range of inflammatory molecules and a reduction in antioxidant enzymes that go on to damage the kidneys.

Kidney transplant recipients need to take several immunosuppressive drugs following surgery to prevent rejection. However, these drugs can cause side effects which can compromise long-term survival for both patients and the transplanted kidneys.

Cordyceps is commonly used as an adjuvant immunosuppressive agent in both initial and long-term maintenance treatment for kidney transplant recipients because of its immunomodulating activity, antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory properties to suppress organ rejection, reduce immunosuppressive drug use and protect patients from drug related side effects.

ADRENAL HEALTH (psychological and physiological)

You may be surprised to hear that physical stress and emotional stress are both on the list of threats

your body has to fight against every day.

Your body was made to handle acute stress from time to time. It is equipped with different organs and systems that respond to stress, and it is always trying to regain or maintain homeostasis. Chronic stress is a feature of modern life. Your body is continually fighting against many threats.

Physical stress, bacteria, viruses, pathogens, and emotional stress are just a few of stressors you may be inundated with on a daily basis. To fight against these, the NeuroEndoMetabolic (NEM) stress response system is constantly on alert to keep your body in a state of homeostasis. Anything that threatens to destroy that happy balance is quickly and silently dealt with.

To fight this battle well, your body needs the right nutrition, rest, and relaxation. Nutrition is an extremely complicated factor.

Cordyceps has the potential to reduce the symptoms of Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome (AFS). The stress of modern life can place huge demands on your adrenal glands—the pair of pyramid-shaped glands located above your kidneys—and your adrenals are responsible for producing the right hormones to help your body manage this stress.

Cordyceps is an adaptogen that can support the adrenal grands and are used to improve kidney health.

The adrenal glands are critical for maintaining healthy energy levels, physical and mental performance and good sleeping patterns. Adrenal fatigue is a state where the adrenal glands are overworked and unable to perform their functions effectively. Individuals with adrenal fatigue suffer

from low energy, poor hormonal function and chronic

Adaptogens can be powerful for helping support hormone balance in women with PCOS and can increase or decrease the hormonal response based on the body’s needs.

DIABETES & BLOOD SUGAR SUPPORT

Improves insulin secretion by the pancreas and it inhibits insulin degradation. It also reduces oxidative stress which is a major culprit in insulin resistance. It improves the function of glucoseregulating enzymes in the liver and promotes a gradual absorption of glucose from the digestive system into the blood stream.

BRAIN HEALTH

Chronic stress impairs memory, cognitive acceleration or the speed of cognitive processing and judgement or reasoning skills. Additionally, chronic stress induces mood disorders and depression. It also accelerates the process of neurodegeneration that can ultimately lead to diseases such as Parkinson’s, dementia, and Alzheimer’s.

Cordyceps supplementation reduced inflammatory markers in the hippocampus of the brain and raised up brain-derived neurotrophic growth factor and 5-HTP (precursor to serotonin and norepinephrine levels

liver cells. Cordyceps was able to slow down the rate at which the cancerous tumors multiplied. Cordyceps comes to the rescue here, as studies are showing us that this mushroom has the power to improve biomarkers that are associated with NonAlcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD).

• Glucose, cholesterol, and damaging liver enzymes were all lowered.

• Cordyceps also increased the prominence of the antioxidant in the body, known as glutathione (when talking about the liver, it is often referred to as GSH)

The component of Cordyceps that is primarily responsible for its liver-protectant effect are called polysaccharides. These polysaccharides remove harmful elements from the liver while simultaneously improving the immune system. The injury suffered by liver cells is drastically reduced.

Researchers believe that this can be used as a primary treatment to treat hepatic fibrosis in patients with hepatitis B.

CIRCULATION & IRREGULAR HEARTBEATS

Cordyceps can lower high blood pressure and correct cardiac arrhythmia.

Numerous studies of people with chronic heart issues published in Journal of Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine 5 show that the long-term

administration of conventional treatments physical condition function

conventional treatments only.

Cordyceps increases blood flow in coronary vessels to the heart (reducing the risk of coronary heart disease and acute myocardial infarction), the vessels of the brain (improving memory and cognitive ability and reducing the risk of ischemic stroke) and in peripheral vessels (treating of atherosclerosis and diabetic complications).

Cordyceps effects indicate dilation (relaxation) of the aorta and femoral artery during treatment with the extract of Cordyceps, highlighting its potential in the treatment of limb ischemia, which is the leading cause of male disability today.

Cordyceps’ ability to reduce coronary vascular resistance by 49% and the pressure in the lumen by 116% after the administration of the Cordyceps extract, which leads to increased blood flow in the vessels by 35% (the maximum increase is 100%).

MUSCLE WEAKNESS

Your body produces lactate (the ionised form of lactic acid) during anaerobic respiration. This usually occurs during intense exercise when oxygen supplies are short. If too much lactate builds up, you can suffer from lactic acidosis. Symptoms include nausea, weakness and muscle cramps. Cordyceps help clear lactate from their cells which help athletes improve their anaerobic performance.

Inflammation causes the mucous buildup that blocks your air passages, making it nearly impossible to breathe.

Less inflammation means clearer passageways. Cordyceps can also boost your body’s own defenses to fight off a virus that no drug can touch. And it makes the cells that line your bronchial tubes work better, which means it can improve your respiratory function. It can reduce not only the cough… but also the sneezing and the phlegm.

OTHER BENEFITS

Cordyceps may provide some protection against radiation in bone marrow and the gastrointestinal tract.

Some researchers believe Cordyceps can stimulate cancer and tumor cell apoptosis—a type of programmed cell death.

Cordyceps offer a caffeine-free energy boost.

smell – Similar to cocao powder

visual – Orangish, like “Cheetos”

taste – Nutty, savory, salty, hint of cacao from smell

The benefits of Chaga mushroom are attributed to its bioactive metabolites.

•It’s said that mushrooms are some of the healthiest foods on the planet.

•The first medicinal uses of Chaga seem to have come out of Russia around the 16th century when it was used as a tea to enhance stomach health.

• Chaga contains compounds that can protect your DNA. Oxidative damage to your DNA is one of the leading causes of aging, and is implicated in many different chronic diseases, from heart disease to

• The mushroom is also *packed with: (D, B’s, K, Ca, Mg, Se, Fe, Cu, Zn)

> Vitamin D (up to 100 IU) maintaining healthy bones and teeth and prevents respiratory infections, prevention of the flu, colds, cancer and approximately 200 different diseases.

>. B complex1,3,5

>. *Potassium is necessary for the normal functioning of all cells. It regulates the heartbeat, ensures proper function of the muscles and nerves, and is vital for synthesizing protein and metabolizing carbohydrates. calcium required for the clotting of blood to stop bleeding and for normal functioning of the nerves, muscles, and heart and for proper bone and tooth growth

>. *Magnesium, selenium, and fibers. iron (helps maintain energy levels in our bodies by producing new hemoglobin cells when oxygen supply gets low), calcium, zinc, amino acids such as tryptophan (help reduce stressB5 and anxiety levels) are essential for normal metabolism

>. *Copper produces red blood cells

It is a powerhouse of nutrients, which makes the mushroom an excellent choice in the health and fitness world.

The highest nutrients are starred *.

Even though ‘mushroom’, it is technically a conk – a hardened mass of wood and 10% mycelium. The outer black layer on the canker contains high amounts of melanin, which can be beneficial for our skin* (more about this later).

They don’t taste like traditional mushrooms. Instead, they have a bitter, yet vanilla taste. They’re also high in fiber and low in calories.

Research has shown that Chaga’s antimicrobial and antiviral properties has the ability to help protect the body against contracting viruses and bacterial infection, by increasing cellular resistance against said invaders.

How Chaga grows Is the Key to Its Benefits. Medicinal compounds from birch like betulin and betulinic acid end up in the Chaga, known collectively as Triterpenes.

Consumption of the mushroom activates the pineal gland by supporting the production of melatonin. Another benefit of melanin-rich food is that it prevents the age-associated buildup of calcium, phosphorus, and fluoride in the pineal gland.

We’ve been watching our step, but now we need to look up. The Chaga Mushroom is a bit more labor intensive.

separate the specimen from the host tree.

The larger the Chaga mushroom the better it is for harvesting.

The life cycle of the Chaga mushroom is very long and specimens grow very slowly: the typical period from initial infection of the tree host to the time of tree death is about 20 years or more.

You will need good vision because only one birch tree per thousand trees. Detecting skills to find Chaga.

The mycelium (the visible black canker, known as melanin,) is visible on the exterior of the trunk, about 4 years after the initial infection in a forest setting.

These large, blackened mushrooms have been referred to as “black gold”, and rightly so, for all the various health benefits they can offer!

Chaga is a polypore mushroom, meaning it has pores instead of the usual gills that we commonly see with fungi growth.

SUPEROXIDE DISMUTASE (SODS)

SODS helps prevent conditions such as:

Lou Gehrig’s Disease

• Alzheimer’s

• Arthritis

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

Superoxide Dismutase (SOD’S) are another important antioxidant present in enzymes called Super Oxide Dismutase. These enzymes play an important role in destructive effects of uncontrolled oxidation and free radicals. SOD potency is measured by the S-ORAC score. The Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) to measure the antioxidant load per gram. The ORAC value of Chaga is 1,104 units per gram, which carries the highest potency of all the antioxidant superfoods on earth. This high ORAC value is due to melanin and polyphenols in Chaga. With an ORAC score of 146700, the antioxidant support of Chaga is 1300 times more than that of blueberries and 80 times higher than pomegranates.

HOLESTEROL ELIMINATED OR ISPLACED

Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

Often, in the case of digestive distress, there is an underlying virus or bacteria, and this can be aided by the mushroom’s antiviral and antimicrobial properties, and its Immune boosting properties.

Alternatively, there may be an irritated digestive lining, brought on by allergies, poor digestive enzyme release or simply the overconsumption of digestively taxing foods. The mushrooms have soothing properties, which can help this discomfort by supporting the integrity of blood vessels and helping to reduce irritation, and hence reducing pain and distress in the digestive tract.

Betulin and Betulinic Acid, known collectively as Triterpenes have the ability to breaking down LDL or bad cholesterol within the body. They also

content of phytosterols. Phytosterols are plant sterols which are structurally similar to cholesterol.

When they are consumed, they interfere with the absorption of cholesterol in the body, and instead cause the cholesterol to be eliminated or displaced. This in turn leads to lower overall cholesterol content within the blood, which helps reduce body cholesterol levels. Lower cholesterol levelsB5 successively promote better blood circulation, helping reduce the incidence of high blood pressure and improving overall heart and cardiovascular health.

Offering immune support, Chaga is full of antioxidants that are effective against free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable cells that without their missing electron,

damage cellular DNA and destroy necessary cells. This can lead to inflammation, organ damage, tissue damage, cell death, and serious diseases like cancer.

Chaga has over 200 pre-clinical animal and cell studies showing promising health benefits including such as being high in antioxidants, supporting digestion, immune support, modulating inflammation, containing key antimicrobial substances, and 200 different compounds in the mushroom being adaptogenic. Because Chaga boosts digestion it then can from the inside out clear and protect the skin.

KIN/HAIR/NAILS

Our skin, hair, and eye pigments are determined by our melanin. But melanin is also responsible for protecting our skin and keeping it healthy. Chaga is also mineral rich — and minerals are the building blocks of our hair, nails, and skin.

Chaga has been found to keep our skin hydrated, along with being able to regenerate our skin tissue. It does this by absorbing UV rays before they can damage skin cells.

Chaga contains the world most dense source of Melanin which is the same pigment found in human skin and the coloured pigments of our eyes. Melanin supports our hair color, protects our skin from sun damage (acts as a type of internal sunscreen), helping with age spots

Bearing all of this in mind,

Chaga can justifiably be called a Beauty Mushroom. It also has antioxidant and free-radical scavenging properties. The protective properties of melanin can help prevent oxidative stresstryptophan that leads to early aging and skin damage. Chaga mushrooms contain Super Oxide Dismutase, an enzyme which plays a key role in facilitating the processes required for reducing the effects of free radicals and in preventing oxidation within the body.

Beta-glucans in Chaga mushrooms help promote a healthy inflammation response.

Chaga can be used to help with dry, irritated, cracked, or redened skin. These antioxidants will help shield skin cells from oxidative damage and that can help the complexion ward off premature signs of aging such as dullness, wrinkling, and loss of skin elasticity.

We now know that Chaga produces cytokines, which are vital molecules that help control inflammation. This anti-inflammatory property of the mushroom is also vital in reducing the symptoms of psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease.

Just as chaga works fantastically for the skin, it also does for the hair. It’s even a popular skincare ingredient in Mongolia because it helps maintain strong, healthy hair. Knowing this,

Japanese researchers looked into chaga’s potential as an anti-alopecia treatment. You’ll find most versions of mushrooms in tea, where it has been ground into a powder, and in as a popular ingredient in skincare products and is available as a supplement, too.

A NATURAL STIMULANT AND DAPTOGEN

Chaga can offer the same thing, just without the undesirable side effects like the jitters and inevitable energy crash in the hours following consumption. This is because Chaga provides energy (as well as its immune boosting properties) by acting as an adaptogen, thus helps the body respond to stress.

LOOD SUGAR REGULATION

As much as a 31% decrease in blood sugar levels, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) Chaga helps to boost your mood in a variety of ways:

• to cope with stress

• with Adrenal burnout

• with Depression

Structural polysaccharides are a category of complex carbohydrates.

>. this provides sustained energy to the body in a way >. that helps promote healthy blood sugar levels, fill and fuel the body,

EMORY

The Polysaccharides also improved antioxidant levels and reduce betaamyloid plaques that inhibit brain functioning. So much so, that researchers are looking into Chaga as a treatment for brain deterioration.

MMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT

Chaga has an abundance of Beta-D-Glucans which help balance the response of the body’s immune system. This means that Chaga helps boost the immune system when necessary, but slows it down when it’s overactive. Chaga activates immune cells responsible for combating cancer initiation.

Chaga mushrooms help activate immune cells responsible for fighting early stage cancer and current research is evaluating how these mushrooms can become part of a cancer prevention, or cancer fighting protocol. Polysaccharides are perhaps the most potent against cancer and have been shown to better activate natural killer (NK) cells reducing cancer metastasis. NK cells are lymphocytes that perform immunosurveillance within the body, constantly on the lookout for “immuno-alerters” signaling tumor presence. (including liver, lung, colon,

prostate, and breast) a disease)

Chaga production of T lymphocytes (T-cells) and interleukin 6 (IL-6), which both help to bolster our immune system. A powerful ability to engage cells associated with immune strength makes Chaga the go-to mushroom for neutralizing incoming bacteria, viruses, and disease causing contaminants from the environment. Spleen lymphocytes are stimulated into production by compounds contained in Chaga. These spleen lymphocytes have a direct impact on our overall immunity and immune system functionality.

Chaga mushroom has powerful immune-supporting properties. They Cup-regulate (increases support) the immune cell-signaling events and increase the power or effect of the cells of the immune system like Natural Killer (NK) cells. Chaga also enhances the activity of helper T cells which search for and destroy the mutated cells. The xylogalactoglucan polysaccharide in the mushroom induces programmed cell death in infected and cancer-ridden cells.

It has also been shown to down-regulate an overacting immune response.

It’s common for people to experience these symptoms once in a while. But chronic gastrointestinal issues are more than just uncomfortable. It could indicate or lead to a host of other, more lethal problems. Chaga mushroom has been shown to produce cytokines. Cytokines are proteins that regulate the immune system by acting as a chemical messenger. Effective communication between the cells of the immune system leads to its strengthening. These cytokines also stimulate the production of white blood

cells infections functions

• prevent the growth of cancer cells in the liver

• Similar results have been seen in lung, breast, prostate and colon cancers, but more research is needed.

• Zinc present in Chaga boosts the immune system, wound healing, and skin quality.

• Chaga is also high in germanium, which is an immune enhancer and an anti-viral agent. The polysaccharides of the mushroom are the most active compounds of Chaga mushroom.

OOTHING PROPERTIES

Vitamin B7 (Biotin)

WOW! Who doesn’t need soothing?!

Chaga supports the integrity of blood vessels and provides soothing properties in times of irritation. This can be helpful for those suffering from pain, neuropathyB7, and even diabetes.

MPROVED GUT HEALTH (ulcer/gastritis/ IBS/Crohn’s)

Chaga has long been used to support gastrointestinal health in Eastern culture. Most ulcers are caused by bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori, so a well-functioning immune system can fight off this pathogen.

Chaga microbial

the mushroom mushroom can therefore help in balancing out the gut flora preventing dysbiosis.

The polysaccharides found in Chaga function as natural prebiotics that help regulate your gut health. It does this by increasing the body’s good bacteria in the gastrointestinal system and decreasing harmful bacteria.

Chaga mushrooms antioxidants decreases inflammation in our gut.

ALANCES THE THYROID

This medicinal mushroom has been shown to benefit the thyroid gland. Chaga helps in restoring the balance of the thyroid by activating the immune system, increasing NK cells, and reducing the thyroid antibodies.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS?

Chaga is well tolerated, and generally regarded as safe. It has been used as a folk medicine for centuries.

That being said, if you are on other medications, have diabetes, or suffer from auto-immune disease, it is advised to first seek out a qualified health practitioner before starting to supplement your diet with Chaga.

The same can be said for any medicinal mushroom or natural health product, and Chaga is no exception.

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7. Natures Rise

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9. Mycology4you

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12. Medicinal Herbals

1. Global Healing

Annandachaga

Skinny Teatox

Real Mushrooms

Aloha Medicinals

Health Cleveland Clinic

Wake Up World

Healthy Meal Home

TOP 7 MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS – The Mushroom of Many Colors (Turkey Tail)

TURKEY TAIL

Nature’s Secret Weapon against microbes, cancers, and faltering immune systems

TOP 7 Medicinal Health Benefits

Turkey Tail (Trametes Versicolor – meaning of several colors) is one of the most researched mushrooms in the world as well as the most common and local mushrooms to many peoples around the world. The mushrooms are strikingly “zonate” with sharply contrasting sections, with a surface that is delicate, arc like fuzzy or velvety zones alternating with smoother ones of different colors, in tiled layers, and the flesh is 1–3 mm thick and has a dense leathery texture. Its beautiful multicolored zones are very easy to identify.

Continuing on our journey, Turkey Tail and its several colors are sure to draw the eyes of any nature lover and forager.

Turkey Tail mushroom is a common polypore mushroom that has earned its name from its resemblance to the colorful plumage of a turkey’s tail.

It grows on dead logs worldwide and received its name because its rings of brown and tan look like the tail feathers of a turkey. True flexible.

Researchers identified 38 different phenolic compounds, including Quercetin and Baicalein in Turkey Tail. Quercitin and Baicalein are two phenolic compounds found in other natural plants and herbs with an incredible amount of research and value behind them.

1. Quercetine that helps release interferon (usually in response to the entry of a virus, which has the property of inhibiting virus replication),

2. Baicalein – This compound has powerful antiinflammatory properties. It also inhibits the spread of cancer cells, reduces the adhesion properties of tumors, and induces tumor cell cycle arrest.

Turkey Tail mushrooms are potentially beneficial for fighting breast, blood (like leukemia), colon, lung, and stomach (gastric) cancers.

Turkey Tail is well known for its protein-bound polysaccharides, also known as polysaccharopeptides (PSPs).

• PSK/PSP – These are protein-bound carbohydrates that activate and help increase monocytes, increase dendritic (resembling a tree) cells, increase macrophages, and increase immunity to toxins.

• PSK was first discovered by a chemical engineer working for Kureha Chemical Industry Co. The

Beta-d-glucans stimulate dendritic cells also known as Antigen Presenting Cells (APC), these cells detect, engulf and then inform the adaptive immune system of an infection. They can be supportive for preventing and treating certain immune conditions. REAL MUSHROOMS

Together they work to restore balance to the immune system without a specific target.

Turkey Tail is known most for its following benefits and uses:

• May help promote cellular health

• May help support immune system function

• May help promote digestive health

Turkey Tail mushroom seems to be in a league of its own among other functional mushrooms. One abundant property

source of beta-d-glucans. branching structure, and gelation properties, causing diverse physiological effects.

• Beta – form chemical compounds such as carbohydrate to carbohydrate

Beta-d-glucan in Turkey Tail:

~ Is the most common polysaccharide found in the cell walls of mushrooms. Examples of common polysaccharides are cellulose, glucose, and fructose. There are over 80 positive clinical studies supporting the use of beta-d-glucans.

~ Effect on the immune system isn’t consistent across all mushroom species. It’s dependent upon the beta-d-glucan shape, complexity, solubility, size, and extraction method.

~ They are a type of fiber that’s responsible for many of the health-promoting properties that have also been shown to help lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood pressure, and even fight cancer cells.

Beta-d-glucans influence your microbiome by:

• Acting as prebiotics (food for the good bacteria in your gut)

• Affecting the growth of bacteria species

• Improving biomarkers related to the gut microbiota, immune, and health such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)

Beta-Glucans so glucans contribute to the “mouthfeel” texture also.

MMUNE FUNCTION

A source of a polysaccharide, known as polysaccharide K, in Turkey Tail is established as a cancer adjunct therapy for the immune system. Turkey Tail contains one of the highest amounts of betaglucans of all mushrooms, which can help keep our immune systems healthy when used over an extended period of time. β-glucan in Turkey Tail:

~ Scientists have been studying beta-glucans to see if they can be used as a treatment for people with schizophrenia due to much lower level of beta-glucan in their blood than the average person, and they also show less ability to fight off diseases like colds.

~ They activate and increase certain white blood cells that would cause the immune system to respond more quickly and efficiently. Beta-d-glucans are commonly regarded as being Biological Response Modifiers (BRMs). BRMs work by stimulating and supporting the immune system to turn up or turn down enabling a more effective reaction for fighting off infections.

~ In contrast, β-glucan in Turkey Tail can also turn down an overactive immune response via anti-inflammatory cytokine

modulation improves immune function by stimulating cytokine production, increasing natural killer cells, and through other immune-boosting functions.

Natural immunity is your body’s against foreign invaders, such as bacteria or viruses. A few examples of natural immunity in action are your skin, cilia (hair-like projections) in your respiratory tract, eyelashes, and chemicals in your blood.

Pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) are proteins in your immune system that recognize pathogen molecules called pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). The betad-glucans in mushrooms are thought to be PAMPs that affect your immune cells.

Protein-bound polysaccharides (PBP) can enhance key types of immune cells, like T-cells, when used alone or in combination with synergistic (produce a combined greater effect) with herbs. Then, these move to the spleen, bone marrow, and lymph tissues. There, the broken-down betad-glucan can enhance the natural (NK) killer cells and other immune-system cells’ ability to direct resources toward or away from a specific location.

ELPS DEAL WITH INFLAMMATION

Inflammation is the body’s way of dealing with foreign invaders and is a normal response to these types of situations. However, if inflammation becomes chronic it can lead to various health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, asthma, arthritis and even cancer!

Beta-glucans

~ Also act as a type of “antibody,” or protein that recognizes and eliminates and parasites because they attack and destroy the body’s own cells.

However, this is not the case with beta-glucans because they only react to foreign material and cause no harm to your own cells.

~ Also helps reduce inflammation that occurs as a result of autoimmune conditions like Crohn’s Disease or arthritis.

~ Helps lower cholesterol levels by binding to bile acids in the digestive system, which is then excreted out of the body with feces rather than reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This also helps to regulate high blood pressure because betaglucans can act as a vasodilator, relaxing the blood vessels.

~ HDL (good) cholesterol is also increased when taking beta-glucans, which helps to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

ROMOTES HEALTHY DIGESTIVE FUNCTION

Beta-glucans in Turkey Tail

~ Also promote healthy digestive function by aiding in normal bowel movements, promoting regularity, alleviating constipation, colon cancer prevention, and supporting a healthy bacterial balance in the gut.

~ Upon ingestion of beta-d-glucans in Turkey Tail, your intestines absorb it and it binds to fungal receptors on

immune cells that break it down to smaller carbohydrates (polysaccharides).

They food through your digestive system healthy digestive system so that your body is able to absorb and digest nutrients from the foods you eat, allowing it to function properly.

When in fermented form its substrate shows potent and complementary immune activating properties in vitro.

RE ADAPTOGENIC MUSHROOMS

As their name suggests, adaptogens help the body adapt to the various types of stressors we may come across. This includes physical, biological, or chemical stressors. Adaptogens interact with the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to help stabilize your cortisol levels under stress and assist the body in reaching balance again.

IGHTING CANCER CELLS

Beta-glucans in Turkey Tail:

~ Act as natural cancer fighters. They activate the body’s immune system, which helps kill off tumour cells and prevents them from continuing to divide by releasing substances that inhibit cell growth or induce apoptosis in these cells.

~ Bind to these sugars and clear them out of circulation so that tumors can’t grow bigger.

Glutoxins, a type of molecule that beta-glucans can to help with these spread throughout the body.

NTI-FUNGAL

Beta-glucans in Turkey Tail: β-glucan in blood is marketed as a means of identifying invasive or disseminated fungal infections. They are responsible for defense against infections, and supports the repair of damaged tissues in the body, neutralizing foreign pathogens.

1. Qimushrooms

TOP 7 MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS – The Dancing Mushroom (Maitake)

MAITAKE

Nature’s Secret Weapon against microbes, cancers, and faltering immune systems

TOP 7 Medicinal Health Benefits

Immune support | Full of antioxidants | Antiinflammatory | Helps to manage blood sugar |

Support brain health and cognition | Support the nervous system | Increase energy and stamina

a unique, frilly appearance, a delicate texture and an earthy flavor.

Continuing on our journey, we find Maitake “my-tah-key” growing near the bottom of oak, elm, and maple trees. Why Maitaki mushrooms are known as “the dancing mushroom”? According to a Japanese legend, a group of Buddhist nuns and woodcutters met on a mountain trail, where they discovered a fruiting of Maitaki mushrooms emerging from the forest floor. Rejoicing at their discovery of this delicious mushroom, they danced to celebrate.

Hopefully, you will discover a benefit below that will make you dance. Maitaki is also known as sheep’s head. You can

Maitaki (Grifola frondosa)s

probably see why looking at the images above. They can grow to over 100 pounds, earning them the title “king of the mushrooms.”

Maitaki

flavor that almost resembles eggplant. Most people use them in soups, stews, sauces, and more.

ANTIOXIDANT

Oxidation is the process of damage in the body that is natural, but can result in disease when not balanced. As an antioxidant it can reduce the effects of oxidative stress and free radicals in the environment. This antioxidant ability is especially helpful in angiogenesis, which is the process of creating new blood vessels. When there is abnormal activity, angiogenesis can help promote tumor growth, but Maitaki mushrooms may combat this dangerous and malignant process.

IT CAN PROTECT YOU AGAINST CANCER

It has been shown to slow down the growth of certain tumors. Since it can also promote immune activity, including killer cells and T-cells, Maitaki can also prevent cells from turning cancerous. The D-fraction that makes up the beta-glucans in Maitaki is also anti-cancerous.

Maitaki Mushroom (Grifola frondosa) has the strongest activity in tumor growth inhibition both in administered orally and intraperitoneally. Not only on the inhibition against tumors already growing, but also on the inhibition of formation of the secondary focus due to metastasis of tumor cells in lymph and/or blood.

D-fraction can even induce cell death, also called apoptosis, in breast cancer cells and renal cancer cells. In addition anti-hepatitis activities have Maitaki

IT CAN HELP REDUCE CHOLESTEROL LEVELS

Cholesterol can build up inside the arteries and cause them to harden and narrow, blocking blood flow and forcing your heart to work harder to pump blood throughout the body. Maitaki can help lower your blood cholesterol by reducing cholesterol because of the betaglucans that can absorb and remove it from the body.

Beta glucan (often called β‐glucan or BG) is a glucose (or sugar) polymer (having many parts) found in the cell walls of certain plants, bacteria, fungi and yeasts. Beta glucan benefits are due to the fact that it’s a soluble and fermentable fiber. Soluble fibers have effects including delaying gastric emptying, slowing glucose absorption, absorbing cholesterol particles and stimulating immune cells in the gut. Studies suggest that consuming foods with BG may help reduce the risk of glucose intolerance thanks to their ability to slow glucose (or sugar) absorption after eating a carbohydrate-containing meal.

Eating Maitaki can also give you more energy, and thus promotes higher metabolism.

BALANCES BLOOD SUGAR

Maitaki can be a good food to try for the control of blood glucose levels. Some research has

focused on mushrooms and their ability to inhibit the enzyme alpha-glucosidase, which is in charge of breaking down carbohydrates into glucose. By stopping this enzyme, glucose absorption can slow down in the body.

For those that want to avoid the side effects of these diabetic medications, such as nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, and even jaundice, then eating mushrooms can be helpful.

BOOSTS IMMUNE FUNCTION

It acts as a natural defense system for your body and helps fights off foreign invaders to protect your body against injury and infection. They were effective in stimulating an immune response and were even stronger when paired with shiitake mushrooms.

PROMOTES FERTILITY & HORMONAL BALANCE

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a condition caused by an overproduction of male hormones by the ovaries, resulting in small cysts on the ovaries and symptoms like acne, weight gain and infertility. Maitaki mushrooms can help women that suffer from hormonal disorders, particularly polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Maitake mushroom powder was proven to help improve ovulation cycles while also helping stabilize them.

It may be therapeutic against PCOS and could help combat common issues like infertility. A 2010 study conducted at the J.T. Chen Clinic’s Department of Gynecology in Tokyo, for example, found that Maitaki extract was able to induce ovulation for 77 percent of participants with PCOS and was

nearly as effective as some of the conventional medications used for treatment.

Mushrooms are known to be one of the best vegetarian sources of vitamin D and the only non-animal source that can be absorbed efficiently. The cell membrane is known as ergosterol and in mushrooms converts to ergocalciferol, or vitamin D2, when exposed to UV. Maitaki mushrooms can contain more than 2,000 IU of vitamin D2, but you can increase by placing your mushrooms upside down so that the gills face the sunlight.

Support brain health and cognition | Support the nervous system | Increase energy and stamina

The word “Shiitake” comes from the Japanese word for “oak”, which is where these mushrooms were originally found growing.

• 1st – 3rd images are Shiitake

• 4th image is the Hop Hornbeam Japanese Shade Tree

• 5th Image is the Ironwood American Hop hornbeam Tree

Continuing on our journey, Shiitake can can found on hardwood logs. Shiitake were later grown on sterilized sawdust, which allowed for faster production. Hardwood trees that produce Shiitake mushrooms include Sugar Maple, Hop Hornbeam shade tree, Ironwood American Hop Hornbeam tree, Alder, Poplar, and Yellow birch, in addition to Oak. Oak is still the mycelium’s favorite food because it produces a beautiful flush of brown Shiitake caps.

• It’s the second most widely cultivated mushroom in the world (behind the white button mushroom). This mushroom was made famous by east asian cuisine, but is now available all over the world. We’re going to take a deeper look at this little brown mushroom.

• The earliest known record of Shiitake cultivation dates back to 1209, during the Song Dynasty in China. This makes it the oldest known cultivated mushroom. The mushroom, unlike most plants, is not inherently more dangerous, but it does play by different rules, so it’s best to learn these before consuming it.

• The Chinese used (and still use!) Shiitake mushrooms to treat anything from colds to headaches to constipation. They are also thought to improve longevity.

• Shiitake mushrooms are a good substitute for meat because they contain many of the same amino acids

amino acids in a higher percentage than in milk, eggs, anticancer effects.

Other benefits are:

• May help promote immune system function

• May help support dental health

• May help promote metabolic function

• May help support inflammation levels

• May help promote positive emotional outlook

IMMUNE SYSTEM

Shiitake mushrooms may also help strengthen your immune system. One study gave people two dried Shiitake daily. After one month, their immune markers improved and their inflammation levels dropped.

These include truffles, portobello mushrooms, and Shiitake mushrooms.

Mushrooms are very low in calories and rich in selenium, copper, and all of the B vitamins.

This immune effect might be partly due to one of the polysaccharides in

While people’s immune systems tend to weaken with age, a mouse study found that a supplement derived from Shiitake helped reverse some age-related decline in immune function,

VIRUSES – INCLUDING FLU

Shiitake mushrooms may also help fight infections.

Several compounds in Shiitake have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal effects.

As antibiotic resistance is growing, some scientists think it’s important to explore the antimicrobial potential of Shiitake. That said, while isolated compounds show antimicrobial activity in test tubes, eating Shiitake is unlikely to have any effect on viral, bacterial, or fungal infections in people.

SIDE EFFECTS OF CANCER

Shiitake mushrooms are also loaded with polysaccharides, terpenoids, sterols, and lipids, some of which have immune-boosting, cholesterollowering, and anticancer effects. Shiitake mushrooms have Lentinan, a polysaccharide, that have shown great promise as an immune system-boosting agent. Mushroom polysaccharide lentinan for treating different types of

cancers, an antitumor property: A review of 12 years clinical studies in China.

Research has also discovered a compound in called Eritadenine that can help maintain cholesterol already within a healthy range. Lentinan has been shown to inhibit the growth and spread of leukemia cells, in people with gastric cancer.

Since 1980s, though it has been approved as an adjuvant therapeutic drug both in China and Japan for treating cancers, a systematic review of clinical studies of Lentinan has not been conducted elaborately. The 9474 reported lentinan-associated cancer treatment cases include:

• lung cancer (3469 cases)

• gastric cancer (3039 cases)

• colorectal cancer (1646 cases)

• ovarian cancer (183 cases)

• cervical cancer (130 cases)

• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (70 cases)

• pancreatic cancer (15 cases)

• cardiac cancer (15 cases)

• nasopharyngeal cancer (14 cases)

• duodenal cancer (1 case) and

• 110 cancer cases with no classifying patient information

Overall clinical data show solid effect of Lentinan on improving the quality of life and on promoting the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiation therapy during cancer treatment.

heart health.

help lower cholesterol:

•Eritadenine. This compound inhibits an enzyme involved in producing cholesterol.

• Sterols. These molecules help block cholesterol absorption in your gut.

• Beta glucans. This type of fiber can lower cholesterol.

One study in rats with high blood pressure found that Shiitake powder prevented an increase in blood pressure. A study in lab rats fed a high-fat diet demonstrated that those given Shiitake developed less fat in their livers, less plaque on their artery walls, and lower cholesterol levels than those that didn’t eat any mushrooms.

The primary Shiitake Mushroom Medicinal Benefit is to support cardiovascular health.

REDUCES INFLAMMATION

Shiitake contain phenols and other antioxidants that provide anti-inflammatory protection.

SUPPORTS LIVER HEALTH

Shiitake mushrooms increased antioxidant activity and protected liver cells from damage. The compound, called Hericystin, was found to reduce inflammation and help the liver regenerate. While more

research is needed, these findings suggest that mushrooms may be a promising treatment for liver disorders.

Shiitake

Science shows that prevent hepatitis.

DIABETES

This almost magic mushroom, Shiitake, can lower triglycerides levels in the body. High triglyceride levels indicate to a higher risk for the development of diabetes type 2, obesity and cardiovascular diseases. High levels of triglyceride occur when we consume too much sugar and white flour. Shiitake may act as a preventive agent against arteriosclerosis, thrombosis, stroke, hypertension.

BONE

Shiitake mushrooms have one of the highest amounts of natural copper, a mineral that supports healthy blood vessels, bones, and immune support.

Shiitake mushrooms may also help promote bone health. The obtained results showed that vitamin D2from Shiitake mushroom was able to increase bone mineral density and trabecular bone structure of femur bone as well as its bioavailability. The absence of estrogen induced adverse effects not only on bioavailability of vitamin D2 but also on trabecular bone. In conclusion, vitamin D2-fortified

Shiitake mushroom might help postmenopausal women increase vitamin D2 bioavailability and retard trabecular bone loss.

Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is a nutrient made by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight and is found in fish and fortified foods. Vitamin D2 helps the body absorb and use calcium and phosphate, substances that are the building blocks of bones and important to many other processes in the body, particularly the nervous system. Vitamin D2 also helps the body maintain the right balance of calcium and phosphate in the body. Vitamin D2 is often advised or prescribed to patients with osteoporosis, or bone loss.

Possible side effects

Most people can safely consume shiitake, although some side effects may occur. My thought is if you have sensitivities to Oak Trees, you may also be sensitive to Shiitake. In rare cases, people can develop a skin rash from eating or handling raw Shiitake.

This condition, called Shiitake dermatitis, is thought to be caused by Lentinan. Shiitake dermatitis is a rash that some people develop with exposure to raw Shiitake mushrooms. It’s thought to be caused by lentinan, a polysaccharide that breaks down when heated. The dermatitis is very itchy and can spread over the entire body. It typically appears within 24 hours of exposure to raw Shiitake mushrooms and can

last up to three weeks. affect 1.8% of people.

In addition, using powdered mushroom extract over a long period may cause other side effects, including upset and sensitivity to sunlight.

Some also claim that mushrooms’ high purine levels can cause symptoms in people with gout, a type of arthritis that involves sudden pain, swelling and inflammation of the joints. When uric acid levels are high, crystals of it can accumulate in your joints. This process triggers swelling, inflammation and intense pain. Nonetheless, research suggests that eating mushrooms is linked to a lower risk of gout.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read. It shows your interest in health or at least your curiosity. If you enjoyed this post, please follow, like it, and share how it helped you. If you know someone who could be helped by this information please pass it on.

People are destroyed by a lack of knowledge. (Hosea 4:6) So, I’d be very grateful if you’d help it spread the word so that more people can live their best life now, free and to the fullest.

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2. Health Line

3. PubMed, enhances systemic and mucosal immunity

4. PubMed, Immune Responses and Gut

5. PubMed Central, Science Direct

6. PubMed,Antimicrobial & Antioxidant Properties and Bioactivecompounds

7. PubMed, Lentinan

8. PubMed, Anti-cancer therapeutics

9. PubMed, Lentinan for treating gastric cancer

10. Edible Mushrooms, Prevention of cardiovascular diseases

11. PubMed, sterol composition of 10 types of mushrooms

12. PubMed, Lentinan – Inhibition of human colon carcinoma development

13. PubMed, treatment of cancer, hypertension, and high cholesterol levels

14. Effect of Shiitake, PubMed, blood pressure and plasma lipids

15. Latinus, PubMed, fat removal-cholesterol

16. PubMed, Anti-inflammatory compounds

17. Pubmed, inflammatory bowel disease

18. PubMed, Anti-inflmmatory effects of 5 mushrooms

19. Natural News, hormone balance and liver

20. WebMed, Nutrients per Serving

21. PubMed, D2 bioavailability and increased bone structure

22. Pubmed, dermatitis

About the Author

My Name is Catherine DeRoos, wife of Les DeRoos, Jr. and full-time missionary. I have a passion for learning about nutrition and sharing what I learn. Here is my journey into holistic health.

My Journey to Holistic Health

When Les & I began praying about our entering the mission field again in 2001, I desired to compliment his agricultural ministry. What better way to serve beside my husband with the two-handed gospel message than to share the benefits of fruits and vegetables that he would be helping people grow. An acquaintance of mine had been reading a book called “Back to the Garden” by Rev. Malkmus with Hallelujah Acres, and she introduced the book to me during one of our conversations. It was while I was reading this book, that I became motivated in learning more. At that time, Hallelujah Acres was offering on-line classes of which I could not afford. However, I took the list of books they required for their course and went to the library. I began studying Enzyme Nutrition along with many other titles and took lots of notes.

Nigeria in 2004 where I put together teaching material for our FAAGRIC program. style manual/workbook including the physiological nutrition information I had learned, with the agricultural information, and incorporated many scriptural references that went with each of the lessons. To take a look at The FAAGRIC manual visit our LWC website and click on our publications page. There you will find a link to our manual.

It is my desire to bring awareness to as many people as I can the message from Benjamin Franklin — ‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.’ I also greatly respect the advice of Hippocrates, the father of all medicine — “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”

If you desire to live a vibrant, colorful, healthy life, I invite you to join me in encouraging others as well. You can do this by participating in voting on your favorite recipes, sharing the posts you see here, even sharing how “Eating the Rainbow” has colored your life with health.

I hope you gained helpful information in this booklet. May the Lord guide and direct you in your health journey.

Catherine DeRoos

Genesis Health with Laborers With Christ

By Catherine M. DeRoos

Laborers

With Christ

https://genesishealthblog.wordpress.com/spice-up-your-life/

http://laborerswithchrist.org