There are over 120,000 species of described fungi, many of which have been used as medicine for thousands of years. All researched medicinal mushrooms show promising benefits to the immune system, with some demonstrating a specific affinity for the respiratory system.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps, an ascomycetes fungus, grows in the larvae of caterpillars and various other insects. After developing a symbiotic relationship with its host, the fruiting body emerges from the parasitized larvae. Cordyceps militaris, the variety used in FuFluns' Fungi’s formulas, has been documented for over 5,000 years in Chinese and Tibetan medicinal texts as an energy enhancer, kidney nourisher, and lung tonic. Research has confirmed its nourishing effects on the lungs, supported by polysaccharides, with a meta-analysis demonstrating its positive impact on lung function, exercise endurance, and overall quality of life.
USNEA
Usnea spp., commonly known as Old Man’s Beard, is a grayish-green lichen that grows like leafless mini-shrubs anchored on bark or branches. Usnea longissimi, used by indigenous communities in the Venezuela Andes for immune support, has been credited with preventing biofilm formation. Usnic acid, a major active constituent, possesses potent medicinal properties. Historically, Usnea varieties have been used to support the respiratory and urinary tracts, known for mucolytic and vulnerary actions.
REISHI
Reishi, known as Ling Zhi in Chinese medicine, is considered highly valuable for replenishing Qi and promoting longevity. Written about over 2400 years ago in Shen Nong’s Materia Medica, it has been recognized for diverse bioactive compounds, including ganoderic acid, known for immune support and antioxidant effects. Reishi has earned titles such as immune supporter, lung rejuvenator, liver nourisher, trophorestorative nervine, and free radical scavenger. Incorporating Reishi into plant medicine helps optimize immune system function and balance the stress response.
Trophorestorative nervine: Trophorestorative herbs are nutrient-dense and promote organ restoration, while nervines tonify and calm an overactive nervous system.
ARTIST CONK
Artist Conk (Ganoderma applanatum), a cousin of Reishi, possesses powerful antioxidant and immune-supportive properties. Historically used to dry up mucus from the lungs and sinuses, it also acts as an antidote to excess caffeine, inspiring a deep, meditative state.
CHAGA
Inonotus obliquus, commonly known as Chaga, is a parasitic fungus that grows on birch trees. In Chinese Medicine, it is called Hua Jie Kong Jun and is used to build Qi, tonify the kidneys, liver, and spleen, and restore the blood. Russian and Scandinavian scientists, along with Nobel Prize-winning Russian novelist Alexandr Solzhenitsyn, have conducted extensive research on Chaga, noting its many health benefits.
