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| in human studies, to produce antibodies to hepatitis B and to improve liver function in mice. Human studies also demonstrate its capacity to reduce bronchial inflammation, help urinary incontinence and, according to Christopher Hobbs, LEM (Lentinula edodes mycelium extract) may be more effective than AZT in the treatment of AIDS and far less expensive, at a cost of about $74 per month for a therapeutic dose of 3 grams daily. Shiitake is also used effectively for candida infections, frequent colds and flu and environmental allergies. |
| The traditional therapeutic dose for benefiting immunity is 6 to 16 grams of the dried mushroom or 90 grams of the fresh fruiting body. Standardized extracts are also available and are more beneficial than tablets, since the amount of lentinan is certified and clearly stated. For immune maintenance, eating shiitake regularly is beneficial. No toxicity is known for shiitake, but the mushroom must be cooked, since ingesting the fresh, raw mushroom may cause digestive upsets. An excellent source for fresh, certified organically grown shiitake mushrooms is DelfTree Farm in North Adams, Massachusetts. |
| St. Johnswort |
| (Hypericum perforatum) |
| Part used: Unopened buds and flowering tops |
| Actions: Antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, vulnerary, antiviral, antidepressant, alterative, diuretic, anthelmintic, antibacterial |
| Indications: For more than 2,000 years, St. Johnswort has been used for wound healing, damaged nerves and as a diuretic and astringent. Only recently have scientists begun to study its immune-stimulating effects and use as an antidepressant and antiviral. In more than 25 clinical trials, it was shown to be an effective antidepressant. Steven Foster reports that in a placebo-controlled double-blind study of 105 patients diagnosed with mild to moderate depression, subjects were given 300 mg of standardized St. Johnswort |
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