Reishi mushrooms are a Chinese variety of mushroom known in China as ‘the plant of immortality‘ and the ‘Elixir of Life‘. The Vietnamese word for them is linh chi, meaning, literally, ‘supernatural mushroom‘.
Like two other Asian mushrooms, the maitake and the shiitake, reishi mushrooms are reputed to boost immunity and protect heart health, and have a long history of medicinal use. Part of their immune-boosting function is that they increase levels of T-helper cells, the immune cells which are targeted by the AIDS virus.
Reishi mushrooms have been used to treat asthma, respiratory conditions, liver disorders and arthritis. They have a potent range of researched health-boosting properties including anti-tumor, anti-cancer, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, cholesterol-lowering, blood-pressure lowering, anti-viral, anti-bacterial and antioxidant, which makes them potentially beneficial for pretty much every illness there is.
Reishi mushrooms go well in broths, soups, stir-fries, and rice or noodle dishes. They also make a good warming tea – add cinnamon and ginger for taste and extra health-boosting properties.
They grow wild on trees, can be bought dried or fresh, and, if you feel adventurous, you can cultivate them at home on a reishi log. They are also available in capsule form as well as in Essentials.