Q: Red Reishi had been promoted for energy, vitality, fertility and immunity. What is a good brand?
Dr. Cheng: Mikei Red Reishi is cultivated and encapsulated inJapanby Nikkei, the pioneer in mushroom technology. It is 100% cultivated on wood logs immersed in nutrient rich soil under uncontaminated environment. The capsule contains the water extract concentrate instead of the pulverized powder so absorption is guaranteed. They also use Red Reishi and not Black Reishi or other types that contain far less polysaccharides and beta-glucans. The HK Consumer Council published a study on 32 Reishi products and determined that the Japanese made Mikei Red Reishi had the highest content of polysaccharides (29.7% compared to others that had as little as 0.06%). The publication also mentioned that taking the extract is more cost-efficient than making a tea or soup. It is a very effective adaptogen. Through modulating immunity, it helps many chronic conditions including stress, fatigue, hypertension, cholesterol, diabetes, asthma, allergies, liver diseases, and even cancer. It is also effective in boostering energy, vitality and fertility.
Henry Cheng is a medical graduate of the University of London, England and is now Natural Products Consultant at Pharmasave Health Centre Downtown Cloverdale.
