Coriolus Versicolor extract - Commonly called the Asian Turkey Tail mushroom.  Contains polysaccharides [PSK] and polysaccharopeptides [PSP])-- effective for acute leukemia and stomach, esophagus, colorectal, lung cancer; PS is effective with many types of cancer (at least early and mid-stage cancer), including lung cancer and particularly stomach & colon cancer; NCI reportedly stated that PSK has been "contemplated for use against...mammary cancer, gastrointestinal cancers, such as those of the esophagus, stomach...colon; lung...brain tumors" and that PSP "has...antitumor activities, inhibiting Ehrlich ascites tumors, leukemia, and sarcoma...gastric tumor, lymph, and monocytic leukemia"; good to take during chemo & radiation - including acute leukemia patients.

Shitake Mushrooms - The Shitake mushroom lowers cholesterol and improves immune system function, good for preventing high blood pressure and heart disease, for controlling cholesterol level, building resistance against viruses, and fighting diseases such as AIDS/HIV and cancers.  Often available fresh, Shitake mushrooms are very flavorful when used in cooking!  If you cannot find fresh, available as a supplement also.

Maitaike Mushrooms - High in nutrients including Vitamins B-2, C, D, niacin, magnesium, potassium, fiber, and amino acids, Maitake mushrooms contain the polysaccharide compound beta-1.6-glucan which naturally stimulates the immune system and lowers blood pressure.  Beneficial for obesity and diabetic patients, the Maitake mushroom may be best known for its cancer fighting ability.  Tests in mice prove that it blocks tumor formation and boosts the immune system.  Available fresh or as supplement)

Photo courtesy of David W. Fischer / AmericanMushrooms.com

Reishi Mushrooms - The Reishi mushroom can increase the production of interleukin1 and 2, resulting in inhibition of tumor growth. Studies show that Reishi can have a number of other positive effects on the body such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-viral (through its interferon production), lowers blood pressure. It also acts as a cardiotonic by lowering serum and increasing the production of interleukin 1 and 2, which results in inhibition of tumor cholesterol, expectorant, anti-tissue, liver protecting and detoxifying, protection against ionizing radiation, antibacterial, and anti-HIV activity.  Available fresh or as supplement.

Cordyceps Oglossoides Mushroom - Cordyceps, like many other medicinal mushrooms, contains complex sugars (especially beta 1,3 glucan) and other nutrients (nucleosides, triterpeniods) which seem to strongly nourish and activate various components of the immune system, useful in treating cancer, chronic fatigue and other immune disorders.  It also seems to have value in treating nephritis, may help the immune system recognize tumors that otherwise might escape immune surveillance, and  has positive effects on the cardiovascular and nervous systems, and an anti-aging effect.

Phellinus linteus - Made up primarily of polysacharrides, the Phellinus linteus mushroom suppresses cancer growth, angiogenesis and invasive behavior of breast and other cancer cells through the inhibition of AKT signalling.  It also stimulates the immune system and induces apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells.

The world of natural health has an abundance of botanicals, vitamins, minerals and supplements to help fight illness and boost the immune system. As you can see, the so-called "medicinal mushrooms" are important parts of that world.

Live long, live healthy, live happy!

For a fascinating look at Mushrooms, take a look at the film "6 Ways That Mushrooms Can Save the World" at Mercola.com

Be sure to visit our CureZone Health Forum: Ask Tony Isaacs: Featuring Luella May – Natural Health, Cancer, Longevity and Home & Herbal Remedies.