A mushroom well known for its kidney-shaped caps and red-brown colour, reishi is widely known in many Eastern cultures. And this post written by herbalists near Bendigo and Castlemaine, let us learn what are the energetics and modern uses of this healing herb.
Reishi has been used for over 2,000 years and is highly regarded as a staple of their medicine. Chinese medical texts refer to this mushroom as the ‘Elixir of Life’, with another name being the ‘Mushroom of Immortality’. At one point, this mushroom was very rare, and was thus reserved for emperors, but it has since been successfully cultivated. To get the most out of Reishi, it does need to be appropriately prepared, your body can’t get all of the benefits out of the raw mushroom.
Energetics and Folklore
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) identifies Reishi as an herb that helps to harmonise life force, energy, and spirit. Symbolically, it has been linked to success, longevity, and well-being. It is revered as an herb that promotes longevity, promoting a long, healthy life to whoever takes it.
It has a mild flavour with a slightly warming nature that lends itself well to helping ‘calm the spirit’.
Modern Uses of Reishi
Reishi is used for a wide variety of purposes including:
- Helping to support your immune system,
- Reducing anxiety,
- Helping to improve your focus,
- Supporting the nervous system,
- Supporting you during times of stress to help you re-find your balance,
- Promoting a restorative and restful sleep,
- Helping support cardiovascular function,
- Supporting hormonal and endocrine function, and
- Balancing your energy and supporting your body during recuperation.
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