American Ginseng & Reishi Mushrooms For The Immune System

Ancient Chinese called wild reishi mushrooms "the herb of the immortals." Because of their rarity they were principally used by Chinese royalty and the aristocratic classes, according to ethnobotanist David Winston in his book, "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief." Contemporary scientific research appears to confirm reishi's positive influence on the immune system. American ginseng, or Panax quinquefolius, seems to increase immune system responsiveness, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, MSKCC.

American Ginseng

American ginseng grows wild in the United States and Canada, but is now a protected plant in some regions due to over-harvesting. It is a popular supplement used to promote immune system health, endurance and vigor, notes the MSKCC. The root of American ginseng contains volatile oils, complex sugars, fatty acids and vitamins, to name a few constituents. It also contains antioxidants, according to MSKCC, which are substances that shield cells from damage by free radicals. Ask your physician if American ginseng is appropriate for you.

Reishi

Reishi is an immune-modulating agent that enhances particular parts of the immune system, especially T lymphocytes cells and killer T cells, according to MSKCC. Red reishi, or Ganoderma lucidum, is the species that has been most studied in the laboratory. Because of a high demand for this medicinal mushroom, reishi is now cultivated by commercial farmers and easily located in your local natural food store. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.

Scientific Studies

In the case of American ginseng, constituents of the root called ginsenosides appear to augment immunity and interfere with tumor growth in test-tube research, explains MSKCC. In a 2009 study published in "Phytomedicine," extracts of American ginseng tested on rats induced cytokine-stimulating activity on macrophages, a specific type of white blood immune system cell. A 2003 article in "Immunological Investigations" reported that a clinical trial of red reishi improved immune functions in late-stage cancer patients. Please discuss all medical and nutrition questions with your health care provider.

Traditional Uses

According to traditional Chinese medical practitioners, red reishi is thought to strengthen the heart and build up the immune system, writes Winston. In the case of American ginseng, Native Americans employed its root for coughs, digestive problems, weakness, arthritis, abscesses and wounds. In the Ozark Mountains and Appalachia, notes Winston, ginseng root was a popular tonic folk medicine. A tonic herb is one that balances the immune system in a general manner, rather than acting on a specific organ or system. Consult a qualified health care professional if your condition is severe or persistent.