2 Mushrooms That May Protect You From The Flu

Until recently, it was thought that the flu virus could travel only a short distance in large particle droplets released during sneezing or coughing. Now we know that the flu virus can spread up to six feet from a person’s head in tiny particles called submicron particles released into the air while talking or breathing.

‘Social distancing’ and good handwashing practices will only protect you so much. You’re always going to be walking through someone’s germ cloud and touching shared surfaces.

The better solution is to protect yourself by bolstering your immune system. Let’s take a look at two medicinal mushrooms that may protect you against the flu virus (and help beat an infection faster). They’re just two of the eight medicinal mushrooms featured in Body Ecology’s Immune Power Shake.   

Medicinal Mushrooms Help Modulate the Immune System

Reishi is a medicinal mushroom that can support respiratory health and promote longevity. Reishi is also antiviral and may be used to alleviate herpes and influenza A viral infections.

Medicinal mushrooms strengthen the protective energy of the body while boosting our immune response system.

Special structural sugars called beta-glucans are found in all medicinal mushrooms. These beta-glucans pack a powerful punch, and they are what help to modulate the immune system—stimulating attack only when necessary.

This adaptogenic quality is one reason why medicinal mushrooms are so effective against a wide range of disorders that involve the immune system, ranging from infection and cancer to autoimmunity and allergies.

When using medicinal mushrooms, it is a good idea to recruit the help of multiple mushrooms. Each mushroom stimulates the immune system in its own unique way. And—according to Chinese medicine—each mushroom also addresses unique forms of exhaustion and low energy.

Reishi Fights Infection and Supports Longevity

Reishi mushroom, also known as “spirit fungus,” is valued in Chinese medicine for its ability to nourish the energy of the heart and promote longevity. Reishi also supports the respiratory system, which has a close relationship with the cardiovascular system.

In traditional Chinese medicine, depleted heart and lung energy can show up as:

• Anemia
• Forgetfulness
• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
• Insomnia
• Erectile dysfunction
• Autoimmune diseases, like lupus (or systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE)
• Heart disease
• Cough and wheezing
• Accumulation of phlegm

Research into Reishi has found that while it can boost the immune system in order to fight infection, it can also lower high blood pressure, reduce high cholesterol, and regulate blood sugar.

Reishi is uniquely antiviral. Studies have found that it can help to combat viral infections of:

• Oral herpes, type 1 or HSV-1
• Genital herpes, type 2 or HSV-2
• Influenza A virus 

Some of the oldest texts in Chinese medicine praise Reishi for its ability to enhance longevity. According to these sources, using Reishi mushroom over the long-term can lighten the body, prevent aging, and extend life.

Cordyceps Enhances Endurance and Lung Function

Research has found that Cordyceps mushroom can effectively fight an influenza A viral infection. 

However, besides its ability to fight infection and modulate the immune system, Cordyceps addresses its own unique pattern of fatigue. According to traditional Chinese medicine, Cordyceps can alleviate a form of exhaustion that affects the respiratory and endocrine systems.

This exhaustion may manifest as:

• Weak lower back and sore knees
• Sensation of cold
• Edema
• Diarrhea
• Chronic cough and wheezing
• Asthma
• Bronchitis

Cordyceps is so nourishing to the fundamental energy of the body that in 1993, three female athletes broke world records at the national games in Beijing, China, with the help of Cordyceps mushroom.

Medicinal Mushrooms: Superhero Herbs 

Few herbs in Chinese medicine can “do it all.” Medicinal mushrooms fall into a remarkable group of herbs that can support the body while fighting infection.

For centuries, medicinal mushrooms like Reishi and Cordyceps have been used in Chinese medicine. Only recently has research into the effects of mushrooms on the immune system put medicinal mushrooms into the limelight.

Support your health this flu season with two standout medicinal mushrooms found in Body Ecology’s Immune Power Shake, your go-to-daily protein shake that supports immunity. The eight medicinal mushrooms in this blend are backed by robust research and a long history of traditional use. Each serving of Immune Power Shake contains 1,500 mg of Organic Mushroom Mycelial Mass Powder Blend (Pleurotus eryngii, Turkey Tail, Cordyceps, Reishi, Maitake, Agaricus blazei, Hericium erinaceus, Antrodia camphorata). 

What To Remember Most About This Article:

Contrary to popular belief, washing your hands and covering your mouth may not protect you from the flu. Recent research confirms that the flu virus can spread up to six feet in submicron particles from talking or breathing.

One of the most effective ways to protect your health during flu season is with natural remedies like medicinal mushrooms. Medicinal mushrooms guard the body by strengthening its immune response. Different medicinal mushrooms in Chinese medicine can boost immunity to address issues like low energy and exhaustion.