Mushroom Magic

A few days back I happened upon an advertisement for a food supplement, aimed at women of a certain age. My age in fact.

The ad reads : ” …… blends harmonizing herbs, key nutraceuticals and a proprietary immune supporting combination of nine different mushrooms, each prized in traditional Asian health systems for thousands of years.. “.

Naturally I sat up very late for three nights in a row reading what I could find on mushrooms. I like mushrooms at any time and, if they’re of some benefit in these decrepit years, all the better.

So here’s what I came up with. While I may not agree with the ancient Egyptians in the strong magical powers of mushrooms,  fungal health benefits are undeniable.

Mushrooms and Cancer
Four varieties of mushroom have cancer-fighting attributes.

• Maitake- cuts cholesterol levels and may protect you from cancer
• Shiitake – have been researched for their medicinal benefits, most notably their anti-tumour properties in laboratory mice
• Agaricus – has been a big hit in the past few years with its recognition as an alternative treatment support for many diseases including cancer
• Reishi – useful as a supplement during radiotherapy or chemotherapy and reduces various side effects such as bone marrow suppression and fatigue.

That’s all very heartening, but I don’t have cancer (touch wood) I have plain old-fashioned hormonal changes accompanied by fatigue, insomnia and grumpiness.

I’m going to stock up on Shiitakes. They contain high levels of protein, potassium, niacin and B vitamins, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. They also have natural antiviral and immunity-boosting properties. They can fight viruses, help with liver ailments, lower cholesterol and regulate blood pressure. That sounds like what I’m looking for.

Lentinan is an immunostimulant derived from shiitakes. Scientists say that with lentinan they can effectively treat diseases like cancer, AIDS, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibrocystic breast disease. Sounds even more like what I need.

Susun Weed says that mushrooms offer magic and mystery, good health and good cheer. Read that article, it’s a good one. It makes me want to tramp along the “muddy bank of a meandering stream, inhaling the scent of righteous rot”. I’m off to find my gumboots.