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| of the famous ''tonic" action of this fungus. While none have so far been proved, caterpillar fungus has shown a remarkable number of actions which are shared by ginseng. For example, both are tonics that inhibit the aggregation of blood platelets; stimulate components of the immune system (including natural killer cells); lower cholesterol levels; increase tolerance to hypoxia (low oxygen); and increase plasma corticosteroid levels which help the body to cope with stress. Among the more common traditional applications, both tonics are utilized in the treatment of lung conditions, insomnia, anemia, menopausal symptoms and weakness. Finally, both are esteemed as gerontological agents having a "vital-energy-tonifying" action. "Obviously, before any further judgments upon the women of China's running team, the activity of caterpillar fungus needs to be studied impartially," states Kenneth Jones, author of Shiitake, The Healing Mushroom. |
| Again, take in capsule form, in combination with other herbs or add dried cordyceps to soups or stews, or take an extract or tea once a day. |
| Maitake |
| The maitake (my-tah-key) mushroom (Grifola fondosa) has long been known for its ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. It has also been shown to reduce liver and blood fats, resulting in loss of body fat. |
| One of the more tasty mushrooms, it is used in many dishes. This mushroom, which grows wild in Japan and some parts of the United States, also has antiviral and immunity-enhancing properties. Try eating fresh dried maitake two or three times a week (you can find these at some specialty health food stores). Alternatively, take in capsule form, or in a liquid form take five drops of d-fraction extract three times per day. |
| Reishi |
| Reishi (Ganderma lucidum) is one of the most popular mushrooms both in the Orient and the West for strengthening a compromised immune system. Like all the mushrooms listed here, the immunologically active constituents are polysaccharides. The primary polysaccharide is beta-D-glucan, which has immune-stimulating qualities and has also shown antioxidant |
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