Agaricus blazei
I will start with a well-known and popular variety, the Agaricus Blazei mushroom.
It has been used for centuries as a "medicine" against a wide range of diseases, including infections and allergies. Its ingredients have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancer and hypoglycemic properties.
Ganoderma / Ganoderma Lucidum / Reishi
Another favorite mushroom of mine is Ganoderma Lucidum, also known as Reishi. In Chinese it is called lingzhi, a word that represents spiritual power and immortality. This mushroom is considered a symbol of well-being, success and longevity. It has more medicinal than nutritional value, since - among other things - it helps control blood sugar, boosts the immune system, protects the liver and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria.
Cordyceps Militaris
Cordyceps Militaris is another type of mushroom with medicinal properties. It was first used thousands of years ago in the mountains of Tibet as a remedy against fatigue and as a tonic for faster recovery from various diseases. Of its many benefits, the best known are fighting inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, enhancing liver and lung function and improving the erotic mood!
Cordyceps Sinensis
A relative of the above mushroom is Cordyceps Sinensis. It has strong biological and medicinal activity, especially for the liver, kidneys and cardiovascular system. It also benefits the immune system and has anti-cancer properties. According to a study in the Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, this mushroom may also increase endurance levels and reduce fatigue levels during physical exercise.
Grifola Frondosa / Maitake
For the end I left Grifola Frondosa, more commonly known as Maitake. In Japanese, the name Maitake means "the dancing mushroom"! It is said to have been given this name because people danced for joy when they found it in nature, as it has amazing healing properties. This particular mushroom is described as an "adaptogen". This means that it helps the body to cope with any physical or mental difficulties, while at the same time, it regulates body systems that are out of balance. Compared to other types of mushrooms, Maitake has a more impressive nutritional profile. It provides antioxidants, B vitamins and vitamin C, copper, potassium, fibre, as well as minerals and amino acids.
You can use these mushrooms in an infinite number of imaginative ways in your cooking or include them in your diet in dried form, in tea or extract. Whatever you prefer, always make sure the mushrooms you consume are organically grown!