Medicinal

Mushrooms

for Cellular Defense,

Immunity & Longevity

Dr. Christopher Hobbs, Ph.D.,

L.Ac., A.H.G.

Dr. Christopher Hobbs, Ph.D.,

L.Ac., A.H.G.

Authors Disclaimer
The information in this book is intended for educational and healthenhancing purposes only and not meant to be a prescription for any
disease. If you are experiencing symptoms, I recommend contacting
a qualified health practitioner or physician for a diagnosis and total
health program.
Hunting wild mushrooms for food and medicine has a long history
and can be delightful. A large majority are safe, especially polypore
mushrooms. However, some are potentially dangerous, even lethal.
Make sure of your identity take a class from an experienced hunter!
PUBLISHERS NOTE: The information presented in this book is
based solely on the authors review of the scientific literature, the
authors clinical experience and the authors views and does not express
observations or opinion of the publisher. The contents of this book are
not intended as a substitute for professional medical care, nor should
they be used as such. Consult your physician or other health care
practitioner in all matters affecting your health.

Medicinal Mushrooms

for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

Introduction.................................. 3
The Botany and History
of Mushrooms............................... 5
History of Medicinal Mushrooms....................7

Modern Science Supports Use

of Medicinal Mushrooms................ 9
Caterpillar fungus (Cordyceps sinensis).........10
Maitake (Grifola frondosa)..........................12
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)........................12
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)..........................14
Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor)....................16
Cep (Boletus edulis)....................................18
Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)..........19

How to Use Mushrooms as

Functional Foods...................... 21
Corn and Oyster Mushroom Souffl .............23
Boletus Mushroom Pizzetta..........................24
Stuffed Mushroom Caps ............................25
Eggs Poached in a Jar with Hen of the Woods
Mushrooms, Thyme, and Country Ham ........26
Grilled Shiitake..........................................26
Mushroom Barley Soup...............................27

Medicinal Fungi.....................................28
Symptom Chart......................................29
Glossary...............................................30
Fungi Bibliography.................................32

The power to heal

fungi have been
revered throughout the
world for thousands of
years as both a nutritious
food and an immunebuilding medicine.

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Hobbs holds a doctorate in integrative biology from
University of California, Berkeley, and is a fourth-generation,
internationally renowned herbalist, licensed acupuncturist and botanist
with over 35 years of clinical experience. He has been formulating
supplements exclusively for Rainbow Light since 1985 and is the
founder of the Institute for Natural Products Research.
The author of 23 books, Dr. Hobbs lectures on herbal medicine all over
the world, including the U.S., Canada, Great Britain and Spain. He has
taught at universities and medical schools such as Stanford Medical
School, Yale Medical School, University of California, Bastyr
University and the National School of Naturopathic Medicine. His
research involved phylogenetics, evolutionary biology, phytochemistry,
and ethno pharmacology. In 2005, he received the 2005 Natural
Products Association Clinician Award of the year.
Some of his prominent books include: Medicinal Mushrooms;
Super Immunity: Herbs and Other Natural Remedies for a Healthy
Immune System; Womens Herbs, Womens Health, Herbal Remedies
for Dummies; Natural Liver Therapy: Herbs & Other Natural Remedies
for a Healthy Liver; A Field Guide to Western Medicinal Plants and
Herbs; Natural Therapy for Your Liver and his most recent, Grow It,
Heal It.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

Modern clinical
research
validates traditional
herbal wisdom on the
health-giving benefits
of select fungi.

Introduction
As a fourth-generation herbalist and ardent mushroom enthusiast,
I have been collecting, studying, eating and using fungi as medicine
for over 30 years. Although many people are unaware of the myriad
benefits mushrooms offer, and some people even harbor a fear or dislike
of mushrooms, fungi have been revered throughout the world for
thousands of years as both a nutritious food and an immune-building
medicine. Today, modern clinical research validates traditional herbal
wisdom on the health-giving benefits of select fungi. Both laboratory
and human clinical studies confirm that a number of compounds in
fungi can stimulate immune function, inhibit tumor growth, fight
infection and flu, and help to treat chronic diseases including cancer,
diabetes, heart disease, and many stress disorders.
I have seen the remarkable health benefits medicinal mushrooms can
provide in my clinical practice. A number of my hepatitis C patients
have done extremely well on shiitake extract combined with milk
thistle. One of the most dramatic stories is of a friend diagnosed with
colon cancer who began taking turkey tails and shiitake daily. She was
so weak she couldnt walk more than a few blocks when she began, but
after a year on medicinal mushrooms she was able to power- walk for
several miles!
Even for those of us who enjoy good health, medicinal mushrooms can
be used on a daily basis to strengthen immunity and support a long and
healthy life. Lets take a closer look at the fascinating and complex world
of medicinal mushrooms.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

Fungal colonies are

composed of mycelium
a thread-like network that
grows underground or in
wood. It is through the
mycelium that the
fungus absorbs
nutrients from its
environment.

The Botany and History of Mushrooms

Many people think of mushrooms as individual plants that grow much
like garden vegetables might in their wild state. Mushrooms resemble
plants in that they cannot move on their own and they have cell walls.
Yet mushrooms are not really plants as we generally think of them;
they are fungi, a unique group of organisms that occupy a kingdom all
to themselves. Scientists have named some 100,000 different species
of fungi within the Kingdom of Fungi (plus more that have yet to be
classified). Compared to plants, the cell walls of fungi are composed
of chitin and not cellulose, and fungi do not carry out photosynthesis.
Instead, fungi must absorb food and nutrients from their surroundings.
A mushroom is merely the fruiting body of a much larger fungal colony.
Fruiting bodies are reproductive structures that grow above ground to
release spores.
Fungal colonies are composed of mycelium, a thread-like network
that grows underground or in wood. It is through the mycelium that
the fungus absorbs nutrients from its environment. Nutrient absorption
takes place in two stages: first, the mycelium secretes enzymes that break
down plants, animal matter and components in soil into usable food for
the fungal colony, as well as for the surrounding trees and plants.
Next, the mycelium absorbs the ensuing nutritional matter it needs
to fuel growth.
Mushrooms are natures recyclers, breaking down plant and animal
matter to release the carbon and other nutrients locked inside. Think
of the leaves budding on trees in the spring, expanding and growing
to maturity in the summer so they can gather energy from sunlight. In
the fall the leaves start to age, and with the first cold weather they turn
yellow, red and brown and fall to the ground. In the early spring, the
fungi invade these composted leaves and break them down into food
for the new spring growth of plants and trees.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

Many fungi are symbionts, helping plants to obtain vital nutrients.

As the mycelia of fungi grow through the soil like a net of fingers, they
absorb and concentrate nutrients, such as phosphorous, and water.
Then, when the mycelia wrap around plant roots, even entering the
plants cells, the plant can absorb these concentrated nutrients straight
from the fungus. Thus, the plants absorptive capabilities are greatly
increased. In return, the fungus can absorb complex compounds that
the plant makes, such as sugars and amino acids. Thus both the plant
and the fungus benefit.
The fruit of this complex process are mushrooms, which can benefit
the immune system and provide many health benefits for humans.
However, since fungi absorb their food so completely from their
environment, if they are not grown organically they can contain heavy
metals, pesticides, chemical fertilizers and other contaminants that
disrupt or negate their health-boosting properties. Considering this,
I strongly recommend choosing organic mushrooms whenever possible
to gain all of the benefits they provide without risk of toxicity.

Choose organic mushrooms whenever possible

to gain all of the benefits they provide
without risk of toxicity.

History of Medicinal Mushrooms

Hippocrates, the renowned father of medicine who flourished
around 455 B.C., mentions fungi as being used to stimulate the healing
process in serious chronic illness associated with the kidney, like dropsy,
and sciatica.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, which is over 3,000 years old, a
number of medicinal mushrooms, such as reishi and cordyceps, along
with ginseng and astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), are deemed
to belong to the highest class of medicines or tonics and are said to
impart strength, vigor, and longevity. They are still widely used today.
In Japan, an epidemiological study conducted by Dr. Tetsuo Ikekawa
of the National Cancer Institute of Japan compared the cancer rates
in Nagano Prefecture from 1972 to 1986. Dr. Ikekawa found that the
cancer rates in mushroom farmers families were significantly lower
than in families who did not grow mushrooms (Ikekawa 1989). Since
Dr. Ikekawa published his observations, volumes of Japanese research
have been published on the anti-cancer effects of medicinal mushrooms.
In one clinical trial conducted on colorectal cancer patients who had
successfully undergone surgery to remove their tumors, the survival
rates of subjects who were given an extract of trametes versicolor
(turkey tails) were significantly higher than in the control group after
four years (Mitomi et al, 1992). Today, an extract of trametes versicolor
is a covered treatment in the Japanese health care system.
Until the twentieth century, medicinal mushrooms found limited use
in the United States. In 1854, Francis Peyre Porcher, in his report to the
American Medical Association, wrote, The medical uses of fungi are
probably of far greater importance than their present very limited
application might lead us to suppose. Little did he realize what a
prophetic statement this would be; in 1928, Western science developed
one of the most powerful infection-fighting agents penicillin from a
fungus and today, major pharmaceutical companies worldwide,
including Merck, have mycologists (scientists who specialize in fungi)
on staff actively extracting and looking for marketable compounds.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

As the body of
research on
medicinal mushrooms
continues to grow, the
evidence is mounting
for their use to strengthen
immunity and address
HIV, cancer, cholesterol
and anxiety.

The Botany and History of Mushrooms

Modern Science Supports Use of

Medicinal Mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms are now gaining an ever-wider popularity today,
largely due to the growing number of scientific studies that confirm the
traditional uses of many fungi and have even found new applications for
them in some cases. Lets take a brief look at some of the findings.
One of the key results of both laboratory and human clinical studies
conducted is that a number of compounds in fungi can stimulate
immune function and inhibit tumor growth. In particular, compounds
called heteropolysaccharides large, complex branched chain-like
molecules built from many smaller units of sugar molecules have been
intensively studied since the 1950s for their anti-tumor and immune
stimulating properties. These large molecules are similar to ones found
in the cellular membranes of bacteria, and thus may fool our immune
system into mounting an immune response to them, while posing no
actual threat. This response has been shown to activate a variety of
immune effector cell responses, including an increase in macrophage
and killer T-cell activity.
About 60% of our bodys immune tissue occurs in the gut, and
immune sensors have been found there that can recognize the large
polysaccharides that occur in all species of mushrooms. This knowledge
has lead scientists to conclude that ingesting various mushrooms and
mushroom extracts can lead to a vigorous immune response in
many cases.
Beta-glucans are polysaccharides found in mushrooms that are known
as biological response modifiers because of their ability to activate the
immune system. Beta-glucans also reportedly lower cholesterol, aid in
wound healing, help prevent infections and are an adjuvant in cancer
treatments. Mushroom extracts providing beta-glucans are effective for

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

counteracting some harmful effects of chemotherapy and radiation. In

Japanese clinical trials, mushroom extracts lead to increased survival
times and improved quality of life as support treatment for cancer.
Of course polysaccharides are not the only active constituents found in
fungi, nor do they show only antitumor activity. Smaller compounds,
such as terpenes and steroids, have also been found, and some of these
have shown antitumor activity. A great number of polysaccharides and
protein-bound polysaccharides have been shown to have antibiotic and
antiviral properties, as well as the ability to lower blood pressure and
reduce blood levels of lipids (that is, fatty acids) and sugar. These active
compounds make many fungi useful for treating infections, flu, diabetes
and heart conditions.
As the body of research on medicinal mushrooms continues to grow,
the evidence is mounting for their use to strengthen immunity and
fight infection, to address viral syndromes such as hepatitis C, Herpes
and HIV, for increasing survival times and improving quality of life
as support treatment for cancer, and for balancing blood cholesterol,
respiratory problems and stress disorders including insomnia
and anxiety.
Following is a summary of research and indications for the five
most extensively studied, clinically relevant medicinal mushrooms
in the world:
Caterpillar fungus (Cordyceps sinensis)
Cordyceps sinensis is commonly called caterpillar fungus or summer
plant, winter worm and grows throughout Asia. It is club- or fingershaped, grows from 4-11 centimeters, and may be found on mountain
tops in the cold and snowy grass marshlands of China.
In ancient China, Cordyceps was used to build stamina and restore
vital energy after exhaustion or prolonged illness. Today Cordyceps is
revered as an anti-aging tonic and used in TCM to stimulate blood
circulation, treat menstrual disorders, as a lung and kidney tonic, and as
a nutritional supplement to build vital energy in the elderly. It is
also believed to promote stamina and sexual vitality.

10

Cordyceps is an adaptogen used to fight fatigue and enhance performance.

In 1993 female Chinese long-distance runners shocked the sports world
by sweeping the distance events at the World Outdoor Track and Field
Championships in Stuttgart, Germany, and with subsequent recordbreaking performances in Chinas National Games. The athletes coach
attributed their success to disciplined training and a special diet which
included a mineral-rich soup containing Cordyceps.
Cordyceps has been the subject of scientific study for its
immunomodulating effects, specifically as an adjuvant in protocols for
treating cancer (Zhou et al, 2009). Cordyceps may be beneficial for those
with insulin resistance, as research suggests it exerts a hypoglycemic
effect. Cordyceps is also noted for its liver-protective effects. Human
clinical studies support the use of Cordyceps during:
Convalesence

from illness or surgery

Asthma,

bronchial and lung inflammation

Chronic

nephritis (inflammation of the kidney) and kidney failure

Nephrotoxicity

(poisonous effect of some medications) in elderly

patients, and in kidney-transplant patients taking the immunosuppressant drug, cyclosporin

High

cholesterol and hyperlipidemia, or elevated blood lipids,

two key risk factors for cardiovascular diseases

Chronic
Heart
Lung

obstructive liver disorders

arrhythmias

carcinoma

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

11

Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

Grifola frondosa is called maitake in Japanese, which means dancing
mushroom. Some say it is so named because in ancient times people
who found the mushroom danced with joy since it could be exchanged
for its weight in silver. However, others feel the name maitake derives
from the fact that the fruiting bodies of adjacent fungi overlap each
other, looking like butterflies in a
wild dance (Nanba, 1992; Harada,
1993). Maitake is also called
hen of the woods and sheeps
head. Maitake grows in small,
overlapping-tongue or fan-shaped
caps with stalks that are often fused
together occurring in masses at
the base of stumps and on roots. It
is common in parts of the Eastern
U.S., Europe, and Asia, and is also
reported (rarely) from the western
half of U.S. Maitake is revered as
a food and medicine in Japan and
other Asian countries.
Maitake provides polysaccharides,
including beta-glucans, and is studied in human clinical trials as a
supportive treatment for high blood cholesterol; hypertension (high
blood pressure); cancer, especially bladder cancer; hepatitis; noninsulin-dependant diabetes and blood sugar imbalances; and for
strengthening immune function in people with cancer
(Ulbricht et al, 2009).

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Ganoderma lucidum is, without doubt, one of the most famous
medicinal mushrooms. It is commonly known as reishi in Japan and
ling zhi or spirit plant in China, where it is also referred to as the
plant of immortality. It grows throughout the United States, Europe,
South America, and Asia. The Latin lucidum, meaning shiny or
brilliant, refers to the appearance of the fungus fruiting body, which

12

has a modeled, varnished look. G. lucidum frequently grows on trees,

especially oak trees, causing their wood to rot. In Japan, 99 percent of
reishi growing in the wild are found on old Japanese plum trees.
Reishi has been used in the folk medicine of China and Japan for
4,000 years to treat liver disease (such as hepatitis), nephritis (kidney
inflammation), high blood pressure, arthritis, neurasthenia, insomnia,
bronchitis, asthma, and gastric ulcers (Kabir et al, 1988). It was also said
to benefit the heart (Ying et al, 1987). In the Ben Cao Gang Mu (A.D.
1578), Chinas most famous natural history book, it is explained that
continued use of Ling Zhi will lighten weight and increase longevity
(Huang, 1993).
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), ling zhi is considered to be
in the highest class of tonics, promoting longevity. Today this king of
fungi is used especially for aging-related and degenerative conditions,
such as coronary heart disease, chronic bronchitis, hypertension, and
cancer (Chen & Zhang, 1987), and as an immune stimulant. In China,
numerous preparations are made for daily use to promote
health, inducing sound sleep and
increasing resistance to
infections and heart disease,
and are also recommended for a
wide range of ailments such as
neurasthenia, chronic bronchitis,
and coronary heart disease (Yang
& Jong, 1989). The Japanese
government has officially listed
reishi as an adjunct herb for cancer
(Willard, 1990). Preliminary clinical
reports and practitioner experience
seems to indicate that its immunostimulating polysaccharides may make
it useful for people who are HIV positive, as well as for those who have
Epstein Barr Virus (EBV), an infectious virus that causes mononucleosis
(Dharmananda, 1988).

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

13

In clinical trials conducted on humans over the last 40 years, reishi

has been used to treat a wide variety of disorders (Sanodiya et al, 2009),
including:
Nervous

system disorders, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety and

stress-related concerns

Respiratory
Duodenal
Retinal

tract conditions, rhinitis, asthma

ulcers

pigmentary degeneration

Leukopenia,

a decreased number of white blood cells which places

individuals at risk for infection

Progressive
Mental

disease

muscular dystrophy

disease caused by environmental stress, Alzheimers

Hyperlipidemia
Diabetes
Liver

disease and hepatitis

High-altitude

sickness (by oxygenating the blood)

Known

adjuvant therapy for cancer patients and survivors with liver

protective and powerful antioxidant properties

In my experience, it is especially suitable as a calming herb for people

with anxiety, sleeplessness, or nervousness accompanied by adrenal
weakness or general neurasthenia or deficiency syndromes.

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)

Lentinula edodes, better
known as shiitake, is
indigenous to Japan, China,
and other Asian countries
with temperate climates.
These light amber fungi are
cultivated on fallen broadleaf
trees (Ying et al, 1987). The
trees particularly suitable
for growing shiitakes are
chestnut, chinquapin, beech,
oak, Japanese alder, sweet

14

gum, maple, walnut, and mulberry. They have decurrent, even to ragged
gills; a central to off-center stem; an inrolled margin when young; and
are covered with a delicate, white nocking. They are not found in the
wild in the United States but are widely cultivated.
Shiitake has been renowned in Japan and China as a food and medicine
for thousands of years. According to historical records, in the year 199
A.D., the Japanese Emperor Chuai was offered the shiitake by the
Kyusuyu, a native tribe of Japan. Even older documents record shiitakes
use in ancient China, where it was referred to as ko-ko or hoang-mo
(Scientific Consulting Service).
The cultivation of shiitake is probably quite ancient. It is currently
the second most commonly produced edible mushroom in the world
(Nakamura, 1992). In the past, as in the present, shiitake was used
for any and all conditions where the immune function needs a boost,
including cancer, AIDS, environmental allergies, Candida infections,
and frequent flu and colds. It also appears to be beneficial for soothing
bronchial inflammation, as well as for reducing chronic high
cholesterol (Hobbs, 2000). Numerous scientific studies have been
conducted on L. edodes, showing it to be antiviral and cancer-protective,
among other effects.
Two types of shiitake preparations have been studied extensively:
lentinan, an active polysaccharide extracted from the fungus, and an
extract preparation of the mycelium of L. edodes called LEM.
In human clinical trials, lentinan has shown antitumor activity and has
been reported to increase the survival rate and length of life of women
with various cancers in hundreds of patients (Aoki, 1984).
According to one prominent Japanese researcher, lentinan is an
immunomodulating agent which may be useful both therapeutically, as
a general rejuvenative for older persons (no matter what the condition
of their health), as well as prophylactically to protect healthy, physically
active young people from overwork and exhaustion (Aoki, 1984b).
In Japan, lentinan is currently classified as a drug, whereas LEM is
considered a food supplement.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

15

Human clinical studies currently support the use of shiitake with the
following conditions:
AIDS/HIV
Hepatitis
Cancer
High

C, B (chronic)

(prevention, treatment; often with chemo, radiation)

cholesterol

Chronic

fatigue, viral syndromes

Immune

weakness

Infectious

diseases

Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor)

Trametes versicolor, also known as turkey tail, is common worldwide.
This common denizen of the woods is true to its name, as the multicolored cap resembles turkey tails. Its fan-shaped fruiting bodies grow in
overlapping clusters on dead logs. The top is zoned, usually in shades of
brown, white, grey, or blue
(though this is variable), and
it sports hairy bands. The
underside of the cap is white
and shows minute pores
which do not discolor after
scratching.

Turkey tail is a potent immune

activator and along with
medicinal extracts from turkey tails, is
the most studied mushroom today.

16

In TCM, T. versicolor is used

to clear dampness, reduce
phlegm, heal pulmonary
disorders (Ying et al, 1986),
strengthen the physique,
increase energy, and benefit
people with chronic diseases
(Yang & Jong, 1989). In
China, it is considered useful
for infection and/or
inflammation of the upper
respiratory, urinary, and
digestive tracts, curative to

liver ailments, including hepatitis B and chronic active hepatitis, and

is used for general immune weakness and tumors (Ying et al, 1987). In
Japan, a preparation of turkey tail, or T. versicolor (L.:Fr.) Pilat, is used
as a health food. Modern laboratory tests show it to have cholesterollowering as well as immune-enhancing activity (Mitomo et al, 1980).
Turkey tail extract is a covered treatment in the Japanese health care
system, where trials have shown Trametes extending life when given
with chemotherapy. In Mexican folk medicine, the fungus is used to
cure ringworm or impedgo of the skin (Alfaro et al, 1983).
Turkey tail is a potent immune activator and along with medicinal
extracts from turkey tails, is the most studied mushroom today. The
National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides ongoing funding for
studies of turkey tail as an immune potentiating agent used with
chemotherapy for both breast and prostate cancer. In one study
conducted at Bastyr University, women with early stage breast
cancer who had completed adjuvant radiation therapy demonstrated
enhanced immune recovery, with greater natural killer cell activity.
A statistically significant portion of the subjects self-reported higher
quality of life and less fatigue.
The pharmacological activity of turkey tail may be due to the proteinbound polysaccharide PSK. In clinical studies, PSK has demonstrated
immune-enhancing and antiviral activity, anti-tumor properties,
analgesic, anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effects (Fisher &
Yang, 2002; Hobbs, 2005). Some of the conditions turkey tail has been
studied to address include:
Cancer
HIV
Hypertension
Diabetes
Thrombosis
Rheumatism

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

17

In addition to these five extensively researched medicinal mushrooms,

lets take a look at two others that provide proven health benefits and are
a delicious addition to any cooks repertoire:

Cep (Boletus edulis)

Boletus Edulis, also known as the king bolete, the cepe in France,
and the porcini in Italy, grows under conifers as well as hardwoods
and broadleaf trees in China, Russia, Europe and throughout North
America. B. Edulis, translated from the Latin, literally means the best
kind of edible
mushroom.
The B. Edulis is
considered the
king of culinary
mushrooms and
fetches high prices
around the world.
In the traditional
wisdom of the
Bohemian and
Bavarian people,
B. Edulis is thought to prevent cancer. This folklore proved out when
studies at Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research in the U.S.
found that among the species they had collected from Bohemia and
screened for anti-tumor activity, only B. Edulis was active (Lucas, 1960;
Lucas, 1957).
In TCM, this fungus is used as a tendon-easing tonic and is thought
to have a positive effect on lumbago, leg pain, numbness in limbs, bone
and tendon discomfort, tetany, and leukorrhea (Ying et al, 1987).
B. Edulis contains eight essential amino acids and is said to promote
good health if taken regularly.
In modern science, B. Edulis has been studied for its anti-tumor effects
and its beneficial effects on addressing inflammation.

18

Oyster mushroom (Pleurotis ostreatus)

Oyster mushrooms are
found in North America
and on most other
continents, growing
in layered clusters on
deciduous trees. Oyster
mushrooms have a fleshy
white, brown or grey,
semi-circular cap shaped
like an oyster shell; the
stalk is usually absent
or small.
Oyster mushrooms
are considered sweet
and mild, and provide
appreciable amounts of all essential amino acids with the exception
of tryptophan. The protein quality was high enough to nearly equal
animal-derived protein (Eden and Wuensch, 1991). Oyster mushrooms
also provide high concentrations of essential fatty acids and minerals,
including iron.
In TCM, oyster mushrooms are used to build blood, strengthen veins
and relax tendons to dispel air and cold. In the Czech Republic, extracts
from the fruiting bodies are used to prevent high cholesterol.
Modern science has revealed the following beneficial activities in
oyster mushrooms:
Anti-tumor
Cholesterol

and triglyceride lowering

Blood-building
Anti-bacterial

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

19

Mushrooms
provide valuable
mineral content,
including calcium, iron,
cadmium, zinc, copper,
potassium, and
phosphorus. They are
also high in vitamins,
especially B vitamins
and vitamin C, and are
an excellent source of
fiber (cellulose, lignans
and chitin).

20

How to Use Mushrooms as Functional Foods

How to Use Mushrooms as Functional Foods

When incorporating mushrooms into the diet, the first consideration
is to select mushrooms of high quality and purity. Commercially
cultivated mushrooms are often heavily sprayed with pesticides;
mushrooms are among the most heavily sprayed items in the vegetable
aisles. As discussed earlier, mushrooms excrete enzymes to digest the
materials in the soils and woods where they grow, so if mushrooms are
cultivated in environments with chemical fertilizers, these elements
are absorbed by the mushroom and, ultimately, by those who eat them.
For these reasons, I recommend choosing certified organic mushrooms
whenever possible.
Although fresh, undried mushrooms are 85-95% water, they do have
signficant nutritional value. Mushroom protein is twice as easy to
digest as protein found in most vegetables, and the protein found in
mushrooms delivers a broad spectrum amino acid profile.
Some mushrooms have a high phenolic content; phenols are potent
antioxidants that have been studied for heart health benefits, among
others. As discussed earlier, mushrooms provide beta-glucans, known to
support immunity. Mushrooms contain very little fat and no cholesterol,
and the fatty fraction consists predominantly of unsaturated fatty
acids such as linoleic acid, making mushrooms an ideal food for losing
weight and maintaining a healthy heart and cardiovascular system.
Mushrooms provide valuable mineral content, including calcium, iron,
cadmium, zinc, copper, potassium, and phosphorus. They are also high
in vitamins, especially B vitamins and vitamin C, and are an excellent
source of fiber (cellulose, lignans and chitin).
Mushrooms are easy to prepare by stir-frying or sauting lightly, a
traditional way to use choice edible species that preserves more unstable

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

21

nutrients than boiling. Medicinal species are best well-boiled. Most

of the active constituents are associated with cell wall structures and
may be released, becoming more available to express their healing
properties, after simmering for 45 minutes to over an hour. Other
active constituents such as terpenes are also more soluble in very
hot water and are relatively stable to heat. It is not known for certain
whether vitamins and minerals play a significant role in the healing
properties of medicinal fungi, but again, immune-enhancing minerals,
such as germanium and zinc, are more accessible to the human system
after cooking.
Teas are a good way to use medicinal mushrooms, and they should be
simmered until the tea is somewhat dark and strong-tasting about
40 minutes to an hour. Add ginger or other flavorful herbs (1/8th part
by weight of the mushrooms) and a little licorice (1/16th part) to help
improve the taste, which might be somewhat bitter in its native state.
For soups, add a variety of vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots,
potatoes, beets, greens, garlic, onions, and a little seaweed or barley
(to thicken) to the mushroom tea stock. Fish, chicken, or a little red
meat can be added for certain
deficiency conditions. Drink
the broth (1-3 cups a day)
and eat the vegetables. Tender
fleshy fungi, such as shiitake
and
oyster mushrooms, can be
eaten with enthusiasm, but
it is best to push tough and
fibrous fungal fruiting body
chunks such as reishi and
turkey tail asidethe essence
has already permeated the broth, and they are far too tough to chew,
even after boiling.

22

Mushroom Recipes
Corn and Oyster Mushroom Souffl
(serves 10)
Recipe from Chef Pete Dressen, Inn Walden
lb oyster mushrooms
8 tbsp. butter plus butter to
coat souffl ramekins
cup bread crumbs
4 cups half and half
18 ears of corn, cut off the cob
8 tbsp. flour
Salt and white pepper to taste
8 eggs, yolks and whites
separated
Butter and bread crumb 10 souffl ramekins. Saute oyster mushrooms
in 2 tbsp. butter until soft (around 8 minutes). Bring half and half to a
simmer and add the corn. Steep for 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Puree
half the mixture in a blender. Add the puree to back to the pot, stir and
set aside. Heat the remaining 6 tbsp. butter in a thick bottomed sauce
pan and whisk in the flour to make a light roux. Cook until golden. Slowly
add the half and half/corn mixture and the sauted oyster mushrooms.
Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Cook out as you would a
bchamel sauce. Take off the heat and add egg yolks, one by one,
stirring to mix as you go. Whisk egg whites to a soft peak and fold into
the mixture. Spoon mixture into souffl ramekins. Bake at 350F just until
they set, about 12 minutes. Serve warm.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

23

Boletus Mushroom Pizzetta

(serves 2-4)
Recipe from Chef Pete Dressen, Inn Walden

Crust:
cup all purpose flour
.3 oz wet yeast or ( of a
package)
1.5 cups water
(room temperature)
1 tsp. honey
Combine above ingredients in
a bowl and let activate for
15 minutes. Then add:
1 Lb. bread flour (reserve extra for dusting)
1 tbsp. salt
Knead for five minutes then place in a lightly oiled bowl in a warm place
to double in size.

Toppings:
lb. Boletus Mushrooms, cleaned and sauted in 2 tbsp. olive oil until
soft (Boletus also known as Porcini or Ceps Mushrooms)
lb. fresh goats cheese
3 sweet onions (sliced thin and sauted until caramelized golden brown)
2 tbsp. fresh thyme
Sea salt, freshly ground black pepper
Preheat oven to 500 farenheit. If you have a pizza stone place it on the
bottom rack.
To form the pizza crust, generously flour the work surface. Flour your
hand and scrape the dough from the bowl in one piece, without stretching or folding it. Place the dough on the floured work surface so that what
was on top in the bowl is now underneath.
Scatter a tablespoon or so of flour over the dough and press down on
it with the palm of the hand. Be careful to keep the dough an even disk
shape. If the dough is freshly made, it may resist slightly. Should that

24

happen, cover it with plastic wrap and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes,
then resume the process. If the dough has been rested for a long time
either in the refrigerator or at room temperature, it will respond easily.
Form your right hand into a fist and begin to press the dough in a circle,
about 1/2-inch in from the edge of the dough, with the middle joints of
your fingers (as though knocking on a door). Pull gently with your other
hand on the edge of the dough, opposite where the dough is being
pressed. Continue around the crust two or three times in this manner to
flatten and widen it. When the dough is properly stretched, it should be
about 1/8-inch thick and have a 1/2-inch wide border, which is slightly
thicker. Place the stretched dough on a pizza peel.
Top the pizza first with the goats cheese then add the caramelized
onions, the mushrooms, the fresh thyme, sea salt and black pepper.

Stuffed Mushroom Caps

(serves 4)
Recipe from Christopher Hobbs
4-18 fresh or dried shiitake caps
(soak dried shiitakes in warm water
for 20 minutes or more until soft and
squeeze out excess water)
Finely-minced vegetables, tofu, greens
(spinach, bok choy, etc.)
1 unbeaten egg white
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon sherry or sake (optional)
1 teaspoon earth or sea salt
Place minced vegetables into a medium-sized bowl. Stir in the egg white.
Add the cornstarch, ginger, sherry, and salt. Mix well. Stuff the mushroom
caps with mixture. Arrange them in a steamer or face-up on a hot grill or
face down under an oven broiler (about 400 deg. F.) Cook until tender
to taste.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

25

Eggs Poached in a Jar with Hen of the Woods

Mushrooms, Thyme, and Country Ham
(Serves 4)
Recipe from Chef Pete Dressen, Inn Walden
2 tbsp plus 8 tsp unsalted butter, at room
temperature
8 eggs
cup country ham (cut into a julienne)
1cup sauted mushrooms
lb. hen of the woods (maitake) mushrooms
(cleaned and roasted in virgin olive oil)
1 cup blanched spinach
4 tsp fresh thyme (de-stemmed)
Salt and freshly black pepper to taste
Preheat an oven to 350F. Have a pot of boiling water ready. Butter the
bottoms and sides of four liter sealable jars with the 2 tbsp butter. Put
2 tsp. butter in the bottom of each one. Break 2 eggs into each jar, then
top each with one-fourth of the ham, mushrooms and spinach, and 1 tsp.
thyme. Season with salt and pepper, seal the jars. Place the jars in a
baking dish and add boiling water to fill the pan halfway up the sides
of the jars. Bake until the whites are just set and the yolks are runny,
18 minutes; for set whites and hard yolks, bake for 22 to 30 minutes.
Remove the jars from the baking dish and remove the lid.
Serve immediately with toast soldiers.

Grilled Shiitake
(serves 4)
Recipe from Christopher Hobbs
3 oz. shiitake mushrooms
(about 10)
cup virgin olive oil (preferably
organic)
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
4 teaspoons chopped fresh

26

thyme leaves or 1 teaspoons dried thyme leaves, crushed

1/8 teaspoon earth salt or sea salt (contains other minerals besides
sodium)
1 1/4 cups zucchini sliced -inch thick
1/2 cup sweet red bell pepper cut in 1-inch squares
block firm tofu (optional)
1/2 cup yellow bell pepper cut in 1-inch squares
Prepare outdoor grill or preheat broiler. Cut the stems from Shiitake
Mushrooms; quarter mushroom caps; set aside. In a small saucepan
place olive oil and balsamic vinegar (mix well before using), thyme and
salt; heat and stir until flavors blend, about 1 minute. On skewers spear
the mushrooms mixed with zucchini and red and yellow peppers. Brush
with olive oil mixture and roast or grill about 3 inches from heat source.
Cook by turning skewers frequently until vegetables are tender, about
5 minutes.

Mushroom Barley
Soup
(serves 4)
Recipe from Christopher
Hobbs
cup cooked barley
3 cloves garlic
1 cup chopped onion
3 tbsp. olive oil
1 lb wild mushrooms, sliced
(shiitake, cauliflower mushrooms, honey mushrooms,
oyster mushrooms, maitake,
chanterelles, porcinis are all
good choices)
tsp sea salt
5 cups water
4 tbsp. tamari
Black pepper to taste

Saute garlic and onion in olive oil until

tender. When onions are clear, add
mushrooms and sea salt. When tender,
add cooked barley and water and
simmer covered for 20 minutes.
Season to taste with freshly ground
black pepper and serve hot.

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

27

28

Main Uses

immune stimulant, tumor inhibition, hemostasis

tumor inhibition, reduce inflammation, tendon/joint health

tumor inhibition

asthma, respiratory inflammation, kidney/liver tonic, lower

cholesterol; sexual tonic, adaptogen, thought to increase indurance

diuretic, antiviral, sedative, fever, spleen/kidney tonic

gastritis, nightblindness, insomnia, "wind-induced" arthritis

high blood presure, tumor inhibition, liver, kidney protectant;

tumor inhibition; reduces cholesterol (mild statin-like activity); nutritious

immune activation, tumor inhibition, expectorant, hepatitis, hypertension,

nervousness, weakness; widely recommended for respiratory tract
weakness; chronic fatigue, insomnia, nervousness

immune regulator, tumor inhibition, antiviral, antibacterial, liver protectant

diabetes, antiviral, immune enhancement, hepatitis

immune stimulant, poor circulation; thought to benefit the lungs

Species

Artist's conk

Bolete

Chanterelle

Cordyceps

Hoelen

Honey

Maitake

Oyster

Reishi

Shiitake

Turkey tail

Wood ear

dried

dried

fresh, dried, liquid

extract, tablets

dried, liquid extract,

tablets

fresh cooked,
dried powdered

fresh or dried

fresh or dried powder

dried

dried

fresh or dried

fresh or dried

dried, capsules

Preparations

Summary of Uses and Doses of Medicinal Fungi

eaten as a food; rare allergic reaction

no toxicity known

widely eaten as a food; some contact

dermatitis

very low toxicity reported

popular nutritious food

used as a popular food for centuries

no toxicity: may cause mild nausea

or diarrhea

generally safe; widely used in traditional

Chinese medicine

none known; used as a medicine

for centuries

highly revered as an edible mushroom;

no toxicity known

"King bolete"--highly prized edible; no

contraindications known

none known

Contraindications

Symptom Chart
Symptom/Condition Species
Altitude sickness
Arrhythmia
Bleeding
Bronchial inflammation
Cancer, breast
Cancer, esophageal
Cancer, gastric
Cancer, skin
Cancer, liver
Cancer preventative
Cancer, uterine
Chemotherapy
(to counteract side effects)
Cholesterol, high
Colds and flu
Coughs
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Dry skin
Eye inflammation
Fever
Gastritis
Hemorrhoids
Hepatitis
High blood pressure
Immune weakness
Indigestion
Insomnia
Low energy
Muscle spasms
Muscle tension
Nervousness
Neurasthenia
Poor vision, night blindness
Rhinitis
Ulcers
Urinary tract infections
Viruses
Wounds, bleeding

reishi
reishi
false tinder polypore, wood ear, earthstar, puffball
shiitake, reishi
chaga, shiitake
artists conk
split gill
stinkhorn
turkey tail
red-belted polypore, maitake, turkey tail, shiitake
chaga
maitake, shiitake, turkey tail
shiitake, jelly fungus, oyster mushroom
shiitake
snow fungus, earthstar, hoelen, reishi
turkey tail, maitake, reishi, shiitake
false tinder polypore
honey mushroom, reishi
chanterelle, honey mushroom
tremella
hoelen
honey mushroom, chaga
wood ear, gilled polypore
reishi, shiitake, hoelen, turkey tail
maitake, shiitake, reishi
maitake, shiitake, turkey tail, reishi
true tinder polypore
reishi, honey mushroom
turkey tail
wood ear
oyster mushroom
reishi
honey mushroom, reishi
honey mushroom, chanterelle
reishi
chaga, enokitake, reishi
zhu ling
shiitake, turkey tail, birch polypore
earthstar, puffball

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

29

Glossary
Alkaloids: any of a group of organic substances containing nitrogen,
many of which affect the nervous system; i.e., morphine, caffeine,
nicotine, etc.
Basophils: (less than 1% of total white blood cells) non-phagocytic cells
that produce chemicals such as histamine; may play a role in allergic
and anaphylaxis reactions
Beta-glucans: polysaccharides found in mushrooms known for their
ability to activate the immune system
Complement: a functional sub-system of the immune system that is
composed of a group of heat-sensitive proteins and their biologically
active breakdown products that cause the lysis (breaking down) and
destruction of antibody-coated cells, such as pathogenic bacteria
Eosinophils: have phagocytic potential (ingests antigen-antibody
complexes) and play an important role in anaphylactic and allergic
reactions
Erythroid: concerning progenitor cells leading to the formation of red
blood cells
Granulocytes: a group of immune cells that have granules in their
cytoplasm Hemostatic: an agent that stops blood flow
Interferon: a class of small soluble proteins released by cells invaded
by viruses, which cause non-infected cells to produce an antiviral protein
that inhibits multiplication of the virus
i.p.: intraperitoneally; injected into the peritoneum of the
abdominal cavity
Krestin: an immune stimulant extracted from Japanese Coriolus
versicolor; a water-soluble, protein-bound polysaccharide LD50, LD75:
a dose that is lethal to 50% or 75% of the test animals
Leukocytes: the white blood cells, comprising all immune cells
mentioned in this book
Lymphocytes: a group of cells involved in cell-mediated immunity (such
as the T-helper and T-suppressor cells) and humoral immunity (such as the
B-cells that produce antibodies) that play a major role in specific
defenses against foreign invaders. In other words, they recognize
particular chemical markers on virus-infected cells and bacteria (among
others) and target their bearers for destruction

30

Macrophages: arising from monocytes, these big eaters are large,

major phagocytic cells, which destroy foreign invaders, toxic chemicals
and tumor cells, among other things
Mycelium: the network of hyphae that form the vegetative part of a
fungus
Mycorrhizal: being in a symbiotic relationship between non-pathogenic
or weakly pathogenic fungi and the roots of plants; the association
benefits the plant or tree because the fungus breaks down organic matter,
making nutrients more accessible
Neutrophils: (50-70% of total white blood cells) a killer cell
(by phagocytosis) which plays a major role in protecting the host
against infections.
p.o.: an oral dose
PSK: (see Krestin)
Phenols: potent antioxidants that have been studied for heart health
benefits, among others
Phagocyte: a cell that ingests micro-organisms, other cells, or
foreign particles
Phagocytosis: the process of engulphment and recycling of pathogenic
bacteria and other foreign particles by our immune cells
Polysaccharides: large molecular weight sugar molecules, some of
which are known to activate human immune functions
Reticuloendothilial system (RES): an important component of the
human immune system, spread through out the body, and composed
of highly phagocytic cells; its important jobs include protection against
microbial infection and removal of worn-out red blood cells
Sarcoma: any malignant tumor of connective tissue
Sclerotium: an underground network of hyphae in certain fungi, which
create a hard tuber-like growth
Sporophore: spore-bearing structure; a fruit body of a mushroom
Spore: the reproductive cells of fungi
Sterol: a steroid alcohol, for instance cholesterol or ergosterol
Triterpenes: Chemical compounds containing 30 carbon atoms in a
structural skeleton, including steroids

Medicinal Mushrooms for Cellular Defense, Immunity and Longevity

31

Fungi Bibliography
Fisher M, Yang LX. 2002. Anticancer effects and mechanisms of
polysaccharide-K (PSK): implications of cancer immunotherapy. Anticancer Res.22(3):1737-54.
Hobbs, C. 2000. Medicinal Value of Lentinus edodes (Berk.) Sing.
(Agaricomycetideae). A Literature Review. International Journal of
Medicinal Mushrooms 2(4): 287-302.
Hobbs, C.R. 2005. Medicinal Value of Turkey Tail Fungus Trametes
versicolor (L.:Fr.) Pilat (Aphyllophoromycetideae). International Journal of
Medicinal Mushrooms 6(2): 195-218.
Ikekawa, T. et al. eds. Twenty years of studies on antitumour activities
of mushrooms. Nagamo Prefectural Research Institute of Rival Industry,
1989.
Mitomi T. et al, 1992. Randomized, controlled study on adjuvant
immunochemotherapy with PSK in curatively resected colorectal cancer.
Dis. Colon Rectum 35:123-130.
Sanodiya BS.et al. 2009. Ganoderma lucidum: a potent pharmacological macrofungus. Curr Pharm Biotechnol. 2009 Dec;10(8):717-42.
Ulbricht C. et al. 2009. Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa):
systematic review by the natural standard research collaboration. J Soc
Integr Oncol. 2009 Spring;7(2):66-72.
Zhou X et al. 2009. Cordyceps fungi: natural products, pharmacological functions and developmental products. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2009
Mar;61(3):279-91.

32

Medicinal Mushrooms
for Cellular Defense, Immunity
and Longevity

xplore the fascinating world of medicinal

mushrooms with Christopher Hobbs, a fourth
generation herbalist and ardent mushroom enthusiast.
For those of us who enjoy good health, medicinal
mushrooms can be used on a daily basis to strengthen
immunity and support a long and healthy life, says
Hobbs. I have seen the remarkable health benefits
medicinal mushrooms can provide first-hand in my
clinical practice.
In this guide to the most comprehensively
researched mushroom species, you will learn how
medicinal mushrooms:

Strengthen immune function

Help prevent and treat cancer
Fight infection and flu
Benefit people with HIV/AIDS
Reduce high cholesterol levels
Address diabetes and heart disease
Treat common stress disorders
Promote liver health and detoxification

The author provides practical, straightforward advice

on using medicinal mushrooms in the kitchen or in
your medicine cabinet. Youll find tips on how to
select mushrooms, delicious, easy-to-follow recipes,
and at-a-glance charts that match medicinal mushrooms with common symptoms and health conditions.
Author Christopher Hobbs is a fourth generation
herbalist, licensed acupuncturist and botanist with
over 30 years clinical experience. Hobbs writes and lectures internationally
on herbal medicine, and is the author of over 25 books. Currently,
Christopher is teaching and conducting research at the University of
California, Berkeley, as well as continuing his formulation for Rainbow Light
Nutritional Systems in Santa Cruz, CA.

Dr. Christopher Hobbs, Ph.D., L.Ac., A.H.G.

Item #97093