Power-packed vital mushrooms

The importance of a strong immune system for our health cannot be stressed enough. It is our defence mechanism against illness and infection. While a balanced diet, adequate sleep and regular movement are all important factors for a healthy immune system, there are also a number of helpers from nature that can play a part in strengthening our defences. In this blog article we’re focusing on a special species group from nature – vital mushrooms.

What are vital mushrooms?

Vital mushrooms have been used in many traditional cultures for centuries. They are valued for their nutriphysiological bio-essential substances, particularly when it comes to supporting the immune system. We’re taking a look here at three of the best known vital mushrooms and how they can help to strengthen our defences.

Shiitake

Shiitake, often known as the “king of mushrooms” has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. Its use is based on the conviction that shiitake strengthens our life energy, known as Qi/Chi. This mushroom rightly deserves to rank as a vital mushroom, not least because of the alpha-glucans it contains.

The positive effects on the immune system of shiitake extracts such as AHCC® –which is contained in the highly efficacious formulation of CAPS immu as well – have also been documented by scientific studies.
AHCC®, a shiitake concentrate that contains alpha-glucans, is very popular as a food supplement, particularly in Japan, for supporting the immune system when faced with infections and inflammations.

Research findings support its use for the immune system, showing positive results in the activation and formation of immune cells. This can lead to improved immune capacity in healthy people. In addition, studies suggest that AHCC® can have a positive effect on immune competence during the winter months when we are prone to catch colds.

Maitake

The maitake, which means “dancing mushroom” in Japanese, is native to North America, Europe and parts of Asia, and often grows on tree stumps or on the roots of deciduous trees such as oak and beech. Its striking growth pattern in large, branching clusters of caps makes it easy to recognise. However, the maitake mushroom isn’t just an amazing thing to look at – it also tastes great, and it’s a star element of Asian cuisine.

Apart from its culinary uses, like shiitake, the maitake plays an important part in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is most noted for its rich concentration of beta-glucans which are said to boost the immune system. This positive effect on the immune system has also been confirmed by the research findings of several studies. These have shown that maitake can help to significantly improve immune reaction and, if used with shiitake, can have an even stronger, stimulating effect on the immune system.
Reishi

The reishi is known as the “mushroom of immortality” and has been treasured for over 2,000 years in Asia as a vital mushroom, playing an important role in the world of natural healing. In traditional Chinese medicine, reishi is used for many different purposes, such as boosting energy, supporting the immune system, promoting well-being and combatting allergies.

According to scientific studies, reishi and the polysaccharides it contains strengthen immune function by stimulating the immune response, thanks to the increased activity and number of important immune factors. These important factors include T-cells.

T-cells are able to recognise pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. They do this by identifying specific molecules on the surface of the infected cells or pathogens. T-cells’ many functions include regulating immune response and fighting infected cells. That makes them an important element of the adaptive immune system, and they should be given targeted support.

How can I integrate these powerful vital mushrooms into my daily routine?

With CAPS immu as a food supplement you can quickly and effectively integrate these three power-packed vital mushrooms into your daily routine and offer your immune system high-end, natural support. This winning formulation contains not only study-tested mushroom extracts, but also synergistic ingredients such as Vitamin C from organic acerola, Vitamin D3 from alga and further beta-glucans from yeast and oats. In this way, you are optimally protected for the chilly autumn and winter months from within.

CAPS immu
Immune System
90 caps