Reishi Mushroom Combats the Effects of Radiation

With the structural failure of the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan, the issue of surviving a potential nuclear radiation accident is on all of our minds. We are worried about our brothers and sisters in Japan, and those of us on the West Coast of the Americas are concerned for our own health as well. But no matter where we live, catastrophes like this make us realize how vulnerable we are.

While the first line of defense for those in close proximity to nuclear fallout is potassium iodide, which protects against thyroid cancer, there are many other factors to consider. Radioactive iodine, which is taken up by the thyroid gland, only persists in the environment for approximately eight days after its release. Other radioactive substances involved in nuclear accidents, such as plutonium, break down much more slowly and can wreak havoc on all systems of the body.They are also more apt to cause problems in a wider area, as particles are carried on the wind around the world.

For this reason, it is important to strengthen the body's overall defenses against the cell damage caused by radiation poisoning, most notably against cancer. Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) does just that.

Reishi has proven antineoplastic properties, meaning that it can prevent cancer. It does this through its overall immune enhancing effects, increasing the number of white blood cells as well as anti-cancer and anti-tumor substances such as interferon and tumor-necrosis factor. It is also a potent antioxidant, removing harmful free radicals from the body.

In modern Traditional Chinese Medicine, this remarkable mushroom, known as Ling Zhi, has a well-documented history of treating all types of cancer and protecting the body from radiation and chemotherapy treatments. Because it works through enhancing the body's own defenses, it is able to kill cancer cells without damaging healthy tissue.

In classic Traditional Chinese Medicine, before the days of high cancer rates, Reishi was used primarily as an anti-stress herb. It helps to relax the mind, ease anxiety, and relieve insomnia. It also helps to increase energy and well-being. In the event of a nuclear accident, this calming yet energizing effect would be a great "side effect", helping to keep us rational, functional and well rested in the face of mass hysteria.

While Reishi mushroom alone probably won't save anyone from massive exposure to radiation, it is a powerful ally in protecting ourselves from the slow but lethal effects of lower doses.

The recommended dosage of Reishi is 3 to 15 grams of the dried, sliced herb or 1.5 to 3 grams of powdered herb. The sliced herb should be simmered for several hours to extract all the health-promoting properties then taken as a tea. It's neutral taste allows it to be used in cooking, for example, boiled with brown rice or simmered with soups.

Reishi is generally considered safe, even for long-term usage by Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners. However, you should always inform your doctor before beginning to take any health supplement.

These statements have not been approved by the Federal Drug Administration and should not be used as medical advice or the basis of treatment for any condition or disease. Please see your doctor or health care practitioner for professional health care advice and treatment.