Know Your Mushrooms
Unlock the Secrets of the Fungi Kingdom
Organic 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 tradtionally 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
Organic 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
Organic 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
Organic 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
Organic 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
Organic 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.
Species : Fungi, Basidiomycota, Tremellomycetes, Tremellales, Tremellaceae, Tremella Pers
Know Your Herbs
Schisandra berry/ Magnolia vine Fruit Schisandra sinensis
Schisandra Berry, also known as Magnolia Vine Fruit, is the fascinating "Five Flavor Fruit" from East Asia. Each of these flavors is traditionally associated with a specific element and corresponding organ system in the body. Celebrated for its adaptogenic properties, this berry helps your body adapt to various kinds of stress while supporting immune function and mental performance. Packed with compounds like lignans, schisandrin, and gomisins, Schisandra Berry is a natural wonder with a variety of potential benefits.
Species : Plantae, Angiosperms, Magnoliids, Piperales, Schisandraceae, Schisandra, S. sinensis*
Astragalus - Goat's Thorn Astragalus membranaceus (Goat's Thorn, Huang Qi)
Astragalus or Goat’s Thorn, hails from China and Mongolia and is a cherished herb traditionally thought to offer a range of health-supporting benefits. From potentially soothing your digestive system to contributing to emotional stability and even boosting energy, it's a multi-faceted gem packed with beneficial compounds like flavonoids and saponins. Whether you're looking to add a pep to your step or seeking a more holistic sense of well-being, Astragalus offers a variety of traditional uses worth exploring.
Species : Plantae, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Rosids, Fabales, Fabaceae, Astragalus, A. membranaceus
Ginkgo Biloba, ginkgo biloba Ginkgo biloba (Maidenhair Tree)
Ginkgo Biloba, a time-honored herb native to China, is traditionally associated with enhancing mental clarity and supporting circulatory health. Known for its calming effects on the nervous system, it's often turned to for stress management and balance. Rich in flavonoids, terpenoids, and ginkgolides, this ancient herb is a treasure of bioactive compounds that contribute to its diverse benefits.
Species : Plantae, Ginkgophyta, Ginkgoales, Ginkgoaceae, Ginkgo, G. biloba
Jujube - Spine Date Seed, Ziziphus jujuba
Ziziphus jujuba, also known as Spine Date Seed or Jujube, is a South Asian herb traditionally celebrated for calming the mind and enhancing sleep quality. Beyond its peace-inducing properties, this versatile plant is also thought to contribute to heart and digestive well-being, as well as immune support. Ziziphus jujuba is a rich source of antioxidants and various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, saponins, polysaccharides.
Species : Plantae, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Rosids, Rosales, Rhamnaceae, Ziziphus, Z. jujuba
Almond, Prunus dulcis
Native to Iran and its environs, Prunus dulcis, or the Almond tree, is famed for its nutritionally dense seeds. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins E and B, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, copper, iron, and magnesium, almonds offer potential respiratory benefits and are linked to improved nasal and skin health, thanks to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, their healthy fats and dietary fiber contribute to heart wellness.
Species : Plantae, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Rosids, Rosales, Rosaceae, Prunus, P. dulcis
Mulberry, Morus alba
Native to northern China, Morus alba, or Mulberry, is a versatile plant traditionally thought to support healthy blood sugar levels and contribute to respiratory well-being. Rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds like anthocyanins and flavonoids, Mulberry is also believed to nurture skin health, promoting a radiant complexion. Mulberry has long been traditionally cherished for its multiple potential benefits to overall wellness.
Species : Plantae, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Rosids, Rosales, Moraceae, Morus, M. alba
American Ginseng, Panax quinquefolius
American Ginseng, a North American native, is an adaptogenic herb has been traditionally linked with a range of benefits, from potentially boosting your immune system and mental acuity to supporting kidney health and maintaining healthy glucose levels., With its naturally occurring compounds like ginsenosides, polysaccharides, and polyacetylenes, American Ginseng is a natural energy enhancer that helps combat fatigue and increase physical endurance.
Species : Plantae, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Asterids, Apiales, Araliaceae, Panax, P. quinquefolius
Lycium Berries/ Goji Berry/ Wolfberry, Lycium barbarum
Lycium barbarum, or Goji berry, is a vibrant herb native to China. Traditionally recognized for nurturing eye health and bolstering the immune system, it is rich in compounds like polysaccharides, carotenoids, and flavonoids. Goji berry also promotes liver health and physical structure, and offers powerful antioxidant properties beneficial for overall wellness.
Species : Plantae, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Asterids, Solanales, Solanaceae, Lycium, L. barbarum
Know Your Resins
Honeybee Propolis, colla apis
Honeybee Propolis is a cherished natural remedy, known for its potential to support digestive and oral health, thanks to its rich profile of bioactive compounds like flavonoids and terpenes. Traditionally, it has been valued for its potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Many people appreciate Propolis for its broad range of potential benefits that contribute to overall gastrointestinal well-being.