Shiitake Superfood

Another superfood I'm fond of—from Rosemary Gladstar’s list for longevity and good health—is the shiitake mushroom. Rosemary suggests including shiitake mushrooms directly into your diet several times per week.

Immune support 

Shiitake is a long-time staple of the Japanese diet. It is used traditionally in Asia to increase the body’s resistance to disease and infection.  

The mushroom, which can be used raw or dried, contains lentinan, a polysaccharide complex shown to have immune-building properties. Lentinan stimulates the production of interferon, macrophages, and lymphocytes. These are the agents that battle infection from viruses, colds, and other illnesses—so prevalent in these winter months.

Heart health

As a bonus, shiitake can help lower blood cholesterol—good for the heart!

Where to find shiitake

You can find shiitake mushrooms in many grocery stores, although they're sometimes not the best quality. Or you can join a mushroom club and learn to grow your own mushroom log. I just did a web search and several clubs were listed.

What a great plant to add to our herbal arsenal!