When it comes to using food as medicine, whether preventive or curative, knowledge is power. One of the most medicinal kingdoms in nature is fungi. There are currently 38,000 classified species of mushrooms that have medical benefits, plus they are packed with nutrients and taste good.
According to a study on the medicinal qualities of known mushrooms (there are still dozens to be discovered), these are really good for treating things related to the immune system: cancer, chronic fatigue, AIDS, hepatitis, flu, etc. All of us, at some point in our lives, need to strengthen our immune system, and what better way to do it than with delicious foods.
These are some mushrooms that are really beneficial for health:
1. Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
These mushrooms strengthen the immune system and have antiviral properties. They also help reduce cholesterol. Shiitake contain lentinan, which not only strengthens the immune system but is believed to help slow the growth of tumors. This mushroom, native to Asia, is also a good source of iron and helps reduce free radical damage.
2. Reishi mushroom (Lingzhi)
Reishi is a well-known Chinese mushroom, also nicknamed “the mushroom of spiritual potency.” It has been shown to help heal tumors and reduce blood glucose and cholesterol levels. Reishi also inhibits the growth of in the body. It has been used for over 2,000 years not only for its pharmaceutical value, but also for its nutritional value.
3. Lactarius salmonicolor (Russulaceae)
This mushroom has incredible antioxidant constituents, so it contributes to the overall health of the immune system. It can serve as a powerful antiviral.
4. Coriolus versicolor (Trametes versicolor)
Commonly called “turkey tail,” this mushroom is used for cancer treatment. Contains polysaccharide K (PSK) and polysaccharide-peptide (PSP): these elements can help increase survival rates in cancer patients.
5. Morel (Morchella esculenta)
High in vitamin D, B and iron, this mushroom contains necessary to strengthen the immune system.