Immune-Modulating Mushrooms

Immune-modulating herbs can help bump your immune system up a notch or two. Reishi, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane are three popular mushrooms known for their ability to protect and heal the body from stress. Certain mushrooms can even aid in the prevention and healing of herpes outbreaks.

Reishi

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a mushroom used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to boost the immune system and fight off certain viruses that cause respiratory illnesses, such as the Bird and Swine flu. It also inhibits histamine, which helps to reduce inflammatory conditions. However, Resihi is also high in arginine, which feeds the herpes virus, so limit your intake. Inflammation is an HSV trigger.

Reishi is known to help with conditions such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, HIV/AIDS, insomnia, and heart and liver disease. Reishi tincture works against herpes viruses.

Cordyceps

If you've watched the series The Last of Us, the idea of using cordyceps will probably terrify you, but cordyceps contains anti-inflammatory and protective properties for nerve cells. Due to its antioxidant properties, it has anti-aging effects and improves memory and learning. Cordyceps lowers bad LDL cholesterol (good for heart health), supports thyroid and liver health, and improves insulin sensitivity. It also supports the adrenals by reducing cortisol fatigue, which in turn lowers histamine levels. However, a few studies have shown that cordyceps can cause a fungal infection in humans' throats (yikes!).

Note: Thyroid problems can trigger more frequent and severe herpes outbreaks.

Lion's Mane

Lion's Mane is immune-modulating and neuroprotective, helping to repair myelin sheaths. It also protects the stomach lining against bacterial and fungal infections. Lion's Mane also raises collagen levels, increases blood oxygen, and reduces lactic acid buildup and muscle fatigue. Reishi and Lion's Mane can help reduce Vertigo and Tinnitus, which can be caused by histamine intolerance. 

Mushroom Extract Dosages

You can take mushroom extracts by the dropperful 1-2 times daily. Nicole's Apothecary is one of my favorite online sites for learning more about the benefits of mushrooms and purchasing extracts. I'm not an affiliate, but I respect her knowledge. Nicole has utilized her mushroom extracts to manage her MS.

Note: Mushroom tinctures may slow the blood's ability to clot and reduce sugar levels, so don't take mushroom extracts before surgery. Also, ask your doctor before using mushroom extracts if you have blood-clotting issues or Diabetes.