This week, we speak with Dr. Christopher Hobbs, a fourth-generation herbalist, research scientist, and mycologist. He extols the benefits of mushrooms not only as a nutritious food, but also as an important ingredient in natural medicine. What should you know about amazing medicinal mushrooms?
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Learn about medicinal mushrooms:
Our guest, Dr. Christopher Hobbs, grew up in a family steeped in botany and herbalism. He himself studied acupuncture professionally and continued to research acupuncture in China. There he was impressed by the diversity and prevalence of mushrooms in the diet. All the medical professionals he worked with were convinced that eating mushrooms improved health. Additionally, they noted the widespread use of mushrooms in traditional Chinese medicine. At that point, he decided he needed to learn more.
Although mushrooms are not plants, they have many properties that make plant-based diets appealing. In addition to vitamins, fiber, protein, trace minerals, and phytonutrients, mushrooms are a rich source of beta-glucan. These natural compounds help lower cholesterol and improve immune response. If you’re a fan of mushroom and barley soup, you might enjoy Joe and Dr. Hobbs’ exchange about which mushrooms are perfect for this delicious comfort food.
Strengthening the immune system:
If you ask your health care provider for a prescription to strengthen your immune system, they’ll likely give you advice instead. You’ll be told to eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and manage your stress. Although there are many powerful drugs that suppress the immune system, Western medicine has no drugs designed to improve the immune response.
In contrast, there is basic research and some preclinical research showing that certain mushrooms can modulate immune responses. One of them is Reishi (Reishi) (foodApril 3, 2023). Scientists are studying its potential against infectious diseases as well as cancer. This mushroom also appears to be effective in reducing the risk of diabetes.
Prevent dementia with medicinal mushrooms:
At present, Western medicine does not have a suitable prescription for preventing dementia. Although research on mushrooms is still quite preliminary, there is epidemiological evidence that women who frequently eat mushrooms may have some protective effects (British Journal of NutritionJanuary 19, 2024). In animal experiments, lion’s mane (Helicium erinaceus) Improving memory (biologyJanuary 28, 2023).
Other mushrooms, such as turkey tail, shiitake, and maitake, also help protect your liver and respiratory system. It also lowers cholesterol and inflammation.
We briefly discussed research using psilocybin to combat existential anxiety in people diagnosed with cancer. You can listen to the entire interview dedicated to this topic here: “Show 1084: Psilocybin, Cancer, and Spiritual Awakening.”
Seasonal recommendations:
Those suffering from colds and other respiratory infections this time of year can find relief by drinking thyme tea, which has 3 grams (1 teaspoon) of reishi powder mixed in 6 ounces of tea. Ivy leaves, which are popular in Europe, can also be added to this treatment.In this country, certain products calms the bronchi. In Europe, ivy leaves are available as a mixed herbal product called ivy. Bronchial power.
This week’s guest:
Dr. Christopher Hobbs is a world-renowned fourth-generation herbalist, acupuncturist, author, clinician, botanist, mycologist, and research scientist with over 35 years of experience in herbal medicine.
Dr. Hobbs received his PhD in phylogenetics, evolutionary biology, and plant chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley. He is also a founding member of the American Herbal Society. Dr. Hobbs is the author of several books including: Christopher Hobbs’ Medicinal Mushrooms: An Essential Guide: Boost Immunity, Improve Memory, Fight Cancer, Stop Infections, and Spread Consciousness
Dr. Christopher Hobbs
his website is https://ChristopherHobbs.com/
Information about mushroom trekking in Nepal is available on the International Mushroom Tours website. https://www.imtnepal.com/
You can also find information about medicinal mushrooms and herbs on Instagram at christopherhobbs1.
Listen to the podcast:
The podcast of this show will be released on Monday, February 19, 2024, after the February 17 broadcast. You can stream shows and download podcasts for free from this site.
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