With the first written records of Shiitake mushroom dating back to AD 199, this mushroom has been a fundamental part of modern day science with its exponential growth in popularity.
This fungus has been extensively researched and scientifically proven to benefit human health in a multitude of ways.
So, without further ado, here's what makes this mushroom special.
What is Shiitake Mushroom?
Native to East Asia, this species are tan to dark brown in colour, with their caps growing between 5 to 10cm in diameter.
Also known as Xiang Gu (香菇), this 'shroom's surge in popularity began in the 14th century whereby a Chinese doctor, Wu Jue, claimed that this mushroom could be effective for treating diseases of the upper airways, address poor blood circulation, liver diseases, exhaustion and weakness.
Shiitake mushroom contains lentinan, which is a free-radical fighting polysaccharide that appears to stimulate the immune system, clearing the body of tumour cells.
Naturally low in calories, high in fibre, packed with vitamins (B) and minerals, Shiitake shares many of the same amino acids as meat.
What are the Potential Benefits?
With the view of Traditional Chinese Medicine, this mushroom is sweet in flavour, balanced in nature, and targets the stomach, spleen, and lung meridians.
Shiitake has been known to potentially assist in replenishing qi and blood (not drying), strengthening the spleen, stomach, and lungs; transforming phlegm; and addressing fatigue, dizziness, chronic cough, allergies, and frequent colds.
Some Western Potential Benefits of Consuming Shiitake Include:
- Improving heart health
- Assisting with supporting immunity
- Protecting against cell damage
- Boosting white blood cell production to fight off microbes
- Suppress inflammation
- Contain compounds with anti-cancer activity
- Strengthen your bones.
How Can I Take Shiitake Mushroom?
The best thing about medicinal health mushrooms is that they can be used in a multitude of ways, whatever your preference.
There are a few different ways to consume this 'shroom to help boost your wellness:
Capsules
Each capsule contains 450 mg of organic shiitake mushroom, making them a highly concentrated supplement to ensure you receive the health benefits of the mushroom.
A daily recommendation is 3 capsules, 1-3 times daily, to support your health & wellbeing goals.
Powder
The powdered form of Shiitake mushroom can be added to any meal/drink in the form of a food supplement (excl. citrus products).
A daily recommendation is 2g of powder (2 heaped spoons), 1-3 times daily with or without food.
Raw Dried Mushrooms
Perfect for infusion in cooking and teas, you're ensuring you receive the health benefits of each herb to aid your health and wellbeing whilst whipping up delicious dishes with tantalising tastes.
Unlock your culinary potential and discover the wonderful world of health 'shrooms.
Summary
Now that you've got a number of ways to use Shiitake mushrooms, start your journey towards a healthier lifestyle with the help of 'shrooms!
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For any further queries regarding our health mushroom supplements or any other products, please email info@mycologynutrition.com and we'll be happy to help.