Around 2730 BC, the Chinese emperor Shen Nong personally tasted and catalogued over 365 plants to create the first book of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). For each plant, he evaluated them on the range of illnesses they treated, how effective they were, and the number of side effects they had. Shen Nong used what he had learned to place them in one of three classes: “Fair”, “Average”, and “Superior”. One plant in particular —the red reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)— was classified as the best of the “Superior” plants.
Once reserved only for royalty, red reishi was the most sought after medicinal herb in Eastern medicine because of its rarity. Its level of importance in TCM is reflected in many aspects of Oriental art and culture. Reishi was depicted in paintings, embroideries, buildings, sculptures, and carvings of the gods and immortals. It was revered as the “herb of longevity” for its ability to improve health conditions without side effects. Now, as modern medicine struggles to mimic the healing powers of natural substances, more and more people are discovering the ancient secrets of red reishi.
Once reserved only for royalty, red reishi was the most sought after medicinal herb in Eastern medicine because of its rarity. Its level of importance in TCM is reflected in many aspects of Oriental art and culture. Reishi was depicted in paintings, embroideries, buildings, sculptures, and carvings of the gods and immortals. It was revered as the “herb of longevity” for its ability to improve health conditions without side effects. Now, as modern medicine struggles to mimic the healing powers of natural substances, more and more people are discovering the ancient secrets of red reishi.
Adpatogens are herbs that can increase the body’s ability to handle stressors and restore it to normal physiological functions. Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine today consider red reishi one of the most beneficial adaptogenic herbs for balancing energy levels, reducing stress, and regulating immune function. People everywhere have credited red reishi in being helpful for a variety of health functions. Red reishi contains unique compounds such as polysaccharides (beta-glucans), triterpenes (ganoderic acids), and amino acids. Studies have shown these components to have several benefits including, but not limited to:
Immune System Support— Red reishi activates the immune system and stimulates production of the body’s primary defense cells. If these levels are high, you can enjoy being healthy with a noticeable decrease in the frequency and length of illnesses.
Balancing Energy— Red reishi aids in regulation of blood-sugar levels, creating a balanced, steady flow of energy throughout the day. Since it is not a stimulant, red reishi will not keep you awake at night.
Decreasing Stress— Red reishi can balance the release of cortisol and adrenaline hormones, giving you the ability to better cope with everyday stressors.
Anti-Aging Properties— A powerful anti-oxidant and free radical scavenger; red reishi improves circulation resulting in healthy, glowing skin with fewer blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Cancer— Regular consumption of red reishi has been found to stimulate the production of potent, natural anti-cancer substances in the body. Many people have reported reduced side effects of chemotherapy such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
Other Benefits— Red reishi may also provide benefits which include: anti-inflammatory enhancement, the ability to lower bad (LDL) cholesterol, blood pressure regulation, and enhanced liver and kidney detoxification.
For more general information on reishi, visit www.reishi.com.
Immune System Support— Red reishi activates the immune system and stimulates production of the body’s primary defense cells. If these levels are high, you can enjoy being healthy with a noticeable decrease in the frequency and length of illnesses.
Balancing Energy— Red reishi aids in regulation of blood-sugar levels, creating a balanced, steady flow of energy throughout the day. Since it is not a stimulant, red reishi will not keep you awake at night.
Decreasing Stress— Red reishi can balance the release of cortisol and adrenaline hormones, giving you the ability to better cope with everyday stressors.
Anti-Aging Properties— A powerful anti-oxidant and free radical scavenger; red reishi improves circulation resulting in healthy, glowing skin with fewer blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Cancer— Regular consumption of red reishi has been found to stimulate the production of potent, natural anti-cancer substances in the body. Many people have reported reduced side effects of chemotherapy such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
Other Benefits— Red reishi may also provide benefits which include: anti-inflammatory enhancement, the ability to lower bad (LDL) cholesterol, blood pressure regulation, and enhanced liver and kidney detoxification.
For more general information on reishi, visit www.reishi.com.
