Mushrooms could easily be considered the Omega Super Food of the body. They have been utilized for thousands of years as a vegetable, an herb and a medicine. There are over 14,000 kinds of mushrooms but only 3,000 are edible. Out of those 3,000 varieties, 700 have known medicinal properties.
Many varieties of mushrooms have antibiotic, antiviral and anticancer properties as well as the ability to increase immune functions. It was thought in China that eating mushrooms were one of the keys to never falling ill.
There is an ancient story about the Emperor of China who told his herbalist to go and find him the magical potion that would increase his immune system, rendering him immortal. The herbalist came back with Ling Zhi, a mushroom. Legend has it that the Emperor lived to be 101 years of age.
Mushrooms contain various antioxidants, such as ergothioneine and glutathione, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. These factors can contribute to heart disease and may indirectly support healthy cholesterol levels. They are also a good source of soluble fiber, which binds to cholesterol in the digestive system and helps eliminate it from the body.
Mushrooms can be an ideal low energy diet for diabetics. They have no fats, no cholesterol, very low carbohydrates, high proteins, vitamins and minerals, a lot of water and fiber. Moreover, they contain natural insulin and enzymes which help breaking down of sugar or starch of the food. Again, they are known to contain certain compounds which help proper functioning of liver, pancreas and the other endocrine glands, thereby promoting formation of insulin and its proper flow. Diabetics often suffer from infections, particularly in their limbs, which tend to continue for long. The natural antibiotics in mushrooms can help protect them from this dreaded situation too.
Ergothioneine is also very effective in giving protection from free radicals as well as boosting up immunity. Mushrooms contain natural antibiotics (similar to penicillin, which itself is extracted from mushrooms) which inhibit microbial and other fungal infections. They also help heal ulcers and ulcerous wounds and protect them from infections. A good combination of vitamins A, B-Complex and C, found in mushrooms also strengthens immune system.
A lot of fats are burnt to digest (break-down) proteins in food, more so when the protein is accompanied by a very low carbohydrate, zero fats and cholesterol and a good amount of fiber. This is exactly what mushrooms offer. Mushrooms are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to meals.
Mushrooms are very effective in preventing cancer of breast and prostrate due to presence of Beta-Glucans and conjugated Linoleic Acid having anti carcinogenic effects. Out of these two, linoleic acid is particularly helpful in suppressing effects of estrogens. This estrogen is the prime reason for breast cancer in women after menopause. The Beta-Glucans, on the other hand, inhibit growth of cancerous cells in cases of prostate cancer.
Mushrooms are the only vegetable and the second known source (after cod liver oil) to contain vitamin-D in edible form. They are rich in calcium (good for bones), iron (benefits in anemia), potassium (very good for lowering blood pressure), copper (anti bacterial) and selenium (very good for health of bones, teeth, nails, hair and as an anti oxidant).
Anatomically, the lungs are the most exterior organ in the body, meaning they are closest to being the outside of the body of all the organ systems. In Chinese Medicine, they regulate the pores (skin) in the function of sweating, i.e. chills and fever, (chills would be the closing of the lungs and fever the opening of the lungs). They regulate the respiration out of the body (the kidneys regulate drawing the breath in of air) and controls the sinus cavity, i.e. nose and throat, regulate water metabolism and in large part are the immune system (being that the lungs are the first line of defense in a pathogenic attack). A person with weak lung function will have frequent sore throats and colds.
The lungs have a dispersing and circulation effect in the body. This differs from other organs that filter, ascend, descend or collect to utilize its organ functions. The lungs circulate air and disperse water. The physical functions of the lungs are to filtrate and let go. Thus it is associated with emotionally letting go (grieving). And it functions peak in the fall when the season “withers and lets go” of crops and vegetation.
Probably the most interesting benefit of eating mushrooms is the health benefits that they have on the lungs. They provide you with lean proteins as they have zero cholesterol, fats and very low carbohydrates. The fiberand certain enzymes in them also help lower cholesterol level. Moreover, the high lean protein content in mushrooms helps burn cholesterol when they are digested.
Mushrooms, particularly certain varieties like Cordyceps and Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), are thought to nourish and strengthen the Lung Qi (vital energy). A deficiency in Lung Qi can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and a weak immune response. By tonifying the Lung Qi, mushrooms help improve respiratory function and overall vitality.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the lungs are associated with dryness, which can lead to conditions like cough, dry throat, and other respiratory issues. Mushrooms like Snow Fungus (Tremella fuciformis) are considered moistening and are often used to help alleviate dryness in the lungs. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from dry cough or other symptoms related to a lack of moisture in the respiratory system.
Many mushrooms, especially Reishi and Shiitake, are recognized for their immune-boosting properties. A robust immune system is crucial for lung health, as it helps protect against respiratory infections and inflammation. In TCM, strengthening the body's defenses is vital for maintaining lung function and preventing diseases.
Certain mushrooms are believed to have properties that help clear heat and toxins from the lungs. For example, Maitake mushrooms can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy lung tissue. In TCM, excessive heat in the lungs can lead to conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis, so consuming mushrooms that help cool and detoxify can be beneficial.
Mushrooms like Reishi can help nourish Lung Yin, which is essential for maintaining moisture and preventing dryness. In TCM, a deficiency in Lung Yin can lead to chronic cough, asthma, and other respiratory issues. By nourishing Yin, these mushrooms can help balance the lungs' functions and promote respiratory health.
Fill a pot 2/3 full with purified or spring water, then add:
Bring water to boil, simmer for 20 minutes, then add:
Simmer another 20 minutes, then add favorite vegetables such as:
Simmer until the vegetables are tender.
Last add miso and spices such as ginger, celery, or fennel seed.
Make enough for a few days and store it in the refrigerator.
During illness, when solid food is not desirable, drink 3-4 cups of the warm broth (add less barley and more water to make broth).
For degenerative immune conditions, eat 1-2 small bowls per day, and drink the broth as desired.
For autoimmune diseases such as allergies, lupus, diabetes, and hepatitis accompanied by fatigue, weakness, or autoimmune conditions, eat the soup when desired, or drink the broth.
This soup can also be used upon occasion (1-2 times per week) for general toning and may help to increase stamina.
Remember, mushrooms rock. Eat them in the form of several varieties and eat them often! Your entire body, but especially your lungs, will thank you.