Reishi Mushroom & Astragalus Root

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Reishi Mushroom has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for more than 4,000 years to treat liver disorders, hypertension, arthritis, and other ailments. The Chinese have always regarded the mushroom as having special properties. One of the oldest recorded botanical monograph has claimed that Reishi Mushroom made the body "lighter", which may refer to its ability to reduce cholesterol and blood lipid levels. Reishi also has immune potentiating properties. Active compounds from Reishi include glycoproteins, enzymes, polysaccharides and other metabolites which can stimulate immune response in a host. Some compounds in Reishi Mushrooms are classified as immuno-potentiators. Reishi can also act to restore homeostasis in an immuno-suppressed host. Studies have indicated that Reishi is able to induce potent anti-microbial activity in mice. In vitro studies point to the stimulative effects on the production of monocytes, macrophages and cytokines. Anti-viral and anti-oxidant effects are other in vitro effects observed from the study of Reishi. While human research demonstrates some efficacy for the herb in treating altitude sickness and chronic hepatitis B, these uses still need to be confirmed scientifically.

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Astragalus is also known by the names Milk Vetch, Locoweed, Yellow Vetch, Poison Vetch, and Chinese Astragalus. The common name "Astragalus" also includes the species Astragalus mongolicus, Astragalus chinensis, and Astragalus complanatus, which are used interchangeably with Astragalus membranaceus. The Chinese have used Astragalus for many thousands of years as a superior tonic that is often combined with ginseng for replenishing a persons vital energy. The root of this plant is said to strengthen the body's surface resistance and is supposed to invigorate and promote tissue regeneration. It's also been seen as an immune system stimulant as well as a protector of adrenal cortical function. Some say that Astragalus shows promise to support cancer patients undergoing radiation and chemotherapy therapies, and may also help fight against environmental allergies, but more scientific evidence is needed to affirm these considerations. Astragalus contains numerous constituents, including flavonoids, polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides, amino acids, and trace minerals. Astragalus Root is considered to have a normalizing effect on the body's functions.