Know Your Mushrooms
Unlock the Secrets of the Fungi Kingdom
Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi, Reishi)
Ganoderma lucidum, also known as Lingzhi or Reishi, is a fungus that is native to China and is considered the "King of Herbs." This herb is traditionally known for its immune-balancing, energy-boosting, and health-promoting properties and is rich in various compounds such as ganoderic acid, adenosine, polysaccharides and more. It has been the subject of extensive research and improvements in cultivation and extraction methods have made its benefits more readily available.
Species : Fungi, Basidiomycota, Agaricomycetes, Polyporales, Ganodermataceae, Ganoderma, G. lucidum
Agaricus Blazei
Agaricus blazei, also known as Pasteur mushroom, is a natural supplement that has a high nutritional value. It is traditionally used to increase energy, support back and limb discomfort, and promote cognitive health. Agaricus blazei is rich in protein, sugar, cellulose, amino acids, vitamins, ergosterol, and other active ingredients. The main active ingredients are polysaccharides and ergosterols, which make it a natural supplement that can support good health.
Species : Fungi, Basidiomycota, Agaricomycetes, Agaricales, Agaricaceae, Agaricus, A. subrufescens
Cordyceps militaris
Cordyceps militaris is a natural supplement that contains a range of beneficial compounds, including cordycepin, mannitol, ergosterol, adenosine, beta-sitosterol, amino acids, protein, vitamins, polysaccharides, superoxide dismutase (SOD), calcium, iron, and potassium. It is traditionally used to improve lung and kidney health, act as an aphrodisiac, restore energy depleted by stress, relieve fatigue, and calm the mind. Additionally, Cordyceps militaris is believed to support immune function.
Species : Fungi, Ascomycota, Sordariomycetes, Hypocreales, Cordycipitaceae, Cordyceps, C. militaris
Cordyceps sinensis
Cordyceps sinensis is a fungus that grows in the high altitudes of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It was once very rare and considered more valuable than gold. This fungus contains high levels of adenosine and polysaccharides, as well as a range of other active ingredients including nucleosides, sterols, mannitol, cyclic peptides, fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins, and trace elements. It has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to improve lung and kidney health, act as an aphrodisiac, restore energy depleted by stress, relieve fatigue, and calm the mind. To address ecological pressures and limited availability, there have been advances in artificial cultivation of this unique mushroom.
Species : Fungi, Ascomycota, Sordariomycetes, Hypocreales, Ophiocordycipitaceae, Ophiocordyceps, O. sinensis
Grifola frondosa (Maitake)
Maitake, also known as Grifola frondosa, is a natural source of vitamins and minerals like zinc, potassium, calcium, manganese, and B2, D2, and niacin. It contains β-glucan, a protein-linked polysaccharide compound that has been shown to strengthen the immune system. Traditionally, Maitake has been used to support stomach and spleen health, and to calm the mind and nervous system.
Species : Fungi, Basidiomycota, Agaricomycetes, Polyporales, Meripilaceae, Grifola, G. frondosa
Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane)
Lion's Mane Mushroom, or Hericium erinaceus, grows in different parts of China such as the Greater Khingan Mountains, Tianshan, and Altai Mountains. People have traditionally used it to support the stomach and spleen, combat fatigue and weakness, and apply to cuts and wounds. This mushroom contains essential amino acids and trace elements that are beneficial to the human body, including iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and germanium. It is also rich in compounds that promote brain and digestive health, such as fatty acids, sterols, and polysaccharides. Researchers are particularly interested in the polysaccharides as they are the main active ingredient.
Species : Fungi, Basidiomycota, Agaricomycetes, Russulales, Hericiaceae, Hericium, H. erinaceus
Pleurotus eryngii (King Oyster Mushroom)
Pleurotus eryngii, or the King Oyster Mushroom, is an edible fungus native to parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it's revered for balancing the body's Qi and strengthening the spleen and stomach. With a rich umami flavor and meaty texture, this mushroom offers both culinary delights and a plethora of health benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, its role in both food and medicine has grown significantly. Enhanced research and farming methods have made the King Oyster Mushroom's benefits and unique taste widely available.
Fungi, Basidiomycota, Agaricomycetes, Agaricales, Pleurotaceae, Pleurotus, P. eryngii
Lentinula edodes (Shiitake)
Shiitake mushrooms, or Lentinula edodes, are nutritious and rich in polysaccharides such as lentinans and other beta-glucans. They are a good source of protein, low in fat, and contain essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, unsaturated fatty acids, and active enzymes. Traditionally, Shiitake has been used to improve stamina and boost the immune system. They are the first traditional Chinese edible and medicinal fungus to be artificially cultivated.
Species : Fungi, Basidiomycota, Agaricomycetes, Agaricales, Omphalotaceae, Lentinula, L. edodes
Tremella
Tremella is a type of edible and medicinal fungus that is highly valued in China. It contains many nutrients, including protein, fat, sugar, fiber, inorganic salt, and multivitamins. Tremella polysaccharide is the fungus's main active ingredient, and it is commonly used as a tonic because of its health benefits. Traditionally, Tremella has been used to help moisten the lungs, increase vigor and longevity, and act as a tonic.