Mushrooms are often classified as a vegetable, but they are actually fungi. There is an estimated 38,000 species of mushroom, only about 3,000 are edible, about 700 have known medicinal properties, and less than one percent are recognized as poisonous, therefore it is important to buy only to reputable store, so as to avoid a poisonous species.

Mushrooms have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. Today even with the presence of modern technology some people still prefer using natural medicine because it is safer and prolong use will not cause negative side effect like that of a modern medicine.It is important to maintain a good health and body's balance because each time we get sick, our immune system weakens and may become inadequate or malfunction. This could allow multiple genetic mutations that may result in abnormal or malignant growth. The process is generally quite slow and may take many years and many bouts of illness to manifest itself. If we can keep our immune system functioning efficiently, we are more likely to enjoy a healthy quality of life.

Nutritive Values: Per 100 gm.

• Vitamin B: Thiamine .10mg
• Riboflavin: .44 mg.
• Niacin: 4.9 mg
• Vitamin C: 5 mg.
• Calcium: 9 gm.
• Iron: 1 mg
• Phosphorus: 115 mg.
• Potassium: 150 mg.
• Fat: .3 gm
• Carbohydrates: 4 gm.
• Protein: 2.4 gm.
• Calories: 16

Three Mushroom species that contain phenomenal healing properties:

• Maitake - is recommended especially for stomach and intestines problems, as well as diabetes.
• Shiitake have been used for centuries by the Chinese and Japanese to treat cold and flu. Today itis recommended especially in treating nutritional deficiencies and liver ailments.
• Reishi extract promotes respiratory health

Health Benefits of Mushroom (especially the 3 species mentioned above):

• Helps boost immune system function.
• Helps boost cardiovascular health
• Lowers the risk of cancer and helps in the treatment of cancer.
• Helps fight infection.
• Mushrooms low calorie content is good for those who are reducing.
• Mushrooms are probiotic, they help restore our bodies balance and natural resistance to disease.
• Mushroom has analgesic, anti-inflammatory properties.
• Lowers blood pressure
• Antibacterial, Antiviral and Anti-HIV activity
• Mushroom is rich in several anti-oxidants (Selenium, Uric acid & Vitamin A, E, & C) as well as Vitamin D.
• Helps increase libido
• Helps combat allergies

Culinary Uses: Mushrooms are enjoyed for their flavor and texture. They can impart their own flavor to food or take on the flavor of other ingredients. It is popular to add mushrooms to soups, salads, and sandwiches, or to use them as an appetizer.