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HEALTH BENEFITS OF THE REISHI MAGIC MUSHROOM
The Ganoderma lucidum and lingzhi, more commonly known as the reishi mushroom, is a fungus that flourishes in the humid areas of Asia. It has been a staple within Eastern medicine for over 4,000 years, and its wellness benefits have always been praised. But what magical healing powers does this little mushroom contain?
The small symbol of luck and good health first appeared in Taoist art in the 1400s, after having been discovered in the Changbai Mountains. Known as the "mushroom of immortality," it emerged into the limelight during the Ming Dynasty when Chinese practitioners cultivated and used it within their pharmacopeia. Reishi mushrooms were remarkably expensive before people began to produce them, so only those of noble status could buy them, thus giving them a divine reputation.
Not only are they used historically throughout Chinese culture, but reishi mushrooms are also used in cuisine. For example, the bitter-tasting flavor has been notably used within soups, infused rice, and tea. Making the soup is uncomplicated; simply add the mushrooms, fresh or dried, to boiling water and let it simmer for up to two hours. Then, to heighten the soup's taste, you can add olive oil, pepper, salt, onion, garlic, and any other vegetables or herbs of your choice.
To experience the full health benefits of reishi mushrooms, you must drink hot reishi tea. The soothing adaptogenic tonic is naturally caffeine-free. So pour yourself a glass and drink to excellent health with the "mushroom of immortality."
But what exactly are the benefits of reishi mushrooms? Nicknamed the "soul mushroom" or the "magical fungus," the reishi mushroom has been used for centuries to boost immune systems, fight viral infections, and treat illnesses and health conditions like HIV/AIDS and high blood pressure. It can also prevent the multiplication of cancer cells and fight cancer, prostate cancer especially. In addition, the rich chemical compounds within reishi mushrooms improve oxygen utilization and essential organ functioning. It has also been used for Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, cold sores, and so much more.
If you're looking for beneficial fungi that have been used for centuries, reishi mushrooms are perfect for you!
King of all Mushrooms Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
3-5 grams, or 1 heaping teaspoon of ground reishi mushrooms
4-5 cups of water
Honey or agave (Reishi mushrooms are quite bitter, so if you don’t enjoy the taste, feel free to add sweeteners like honey or agave.)
Instructions:
Bring the water to a boil
Add mushroom pieces
Reduce heat until simmering
Let it simmer for up to two hours
Remove from heat and strain
Set aside until cool
Soul Mushroom Soup
Ingredients:
6 cups of water
¼ cup of dried reishi mushrooms
1 tbsp of olive oil
1 diced medium onion
3 minced garlic cloves
1 ½ peeled and grated ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot
Add onion and saute
Add garlic and saute
Add ginger and saute until golden brown
Add water and reishi mushrooms
Bring soup to a boil
Reduce heat and bring to a simmer
Cover and cook for an hour
Add salt and pepper and enjoy!