Page 76as lysine and tryptophan and vitamins such as C, K, nicotinic acid (vitamin B3),
riboflavin (B2) pantothenic acid (B5). There are also other complex substances,
such as terpenes and steroids.
Reishi
Let’s start with the Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum). To the ancient
Chinese this mushroom was called Lingzhi meaning “spirit plant”. According to
legend, Taoist priests in the first century were supposed to have included the
mushroom in magic potions that granted those who consumed them longevity
eternal youth and immortality. In Chinese art the Reishi mushroom is a symbol
of good health and long life; symbols of it abound everywhere.
Clinical studies have confirmed Reishi has properties as an anti-inflammatory,
antioxidant, BP and blood sugar moderator and cholesterol reduce. Reishi
contains over 100 bioactive immunomodulatory substances, including beta
glucan. One of its additional properties is that it protects the patient from the
side effects of radiation, especially protecting from lowering of white blood cells
which can be disastrous.
More importantly, studies have shown that Reishi significantly increases three
immune signalers known to help the immune system destroy cancer cells. The
macrophages and monocytes and T-lymphocyte all increased their production
of TNF alpha, interleukin-1-beta and interleukin-6—but not above normal levels
which would be toxic to healthy cells.
Reishi inhibits angiogenesis (the development and growth of blood vessels
feeding the cancer) in prostate cancer. It’s also effective against bladder cancer,
lung, breast and the dreaded hepatoma (liver cancer).
When I say “effective” beware I do not mean it has as good an effect in killing
cells as chemo does. But there is a strong measurable effect, due to the
increased immune activity it stimulates.
Next let’s look at Maitake (Grifola frondosa). Maitake means “dancing
mushroom”. In Europe it is known as “Hen Of The Woods “ and is sometimes
called the King Of Mushrooms because of its size.
Maitake is a delicious culinary mushroom but also valued for its medicinal
properties. Once again it has benefits in blood sugar control, cholesterol levels
and hypertension. Maitake has been shown to be especially effective in prostate