Eleven years ago, my husband was hooked on nasal spray and allergy medicine, so imagine my interest when I read in the winter 2007 issue of The Herb Quarterly that there might be a natural solution.
According to author Guido Mase, Red Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) “has both a storied history and lots of modern research backing its use for a variety of conditions, including chronic inflammation and cancer. Its powerful antioxidant and liver protective effects help it slow the processes of aging, which may be why it’s known as the “mushroom of immortality”.
But what really got my attention was that Red Reishi has a “specific affinity for the respiratory system, buffering the inflammatory processes associated with asthma and allergies”. Research at the time the article was published indicated that Red Reishi is very safe, but I always recommend that you do your own research.
I went to work right away preparing a tincture according to Mase’s recipe and six weeks later, it was ready. My husband was willing to try anything to get off the meds, so he added a dropper full to his water bottle every day. After two weeks he started to notice a difference and within two months he was completely off the meds and nasal spray!
He has continued to use this tincture daily since that time. When allergens in the air are really high, he will add a dropper full of Red Clover tincture too, which has a drying action.
You may or may not have the same response, but if you find yourself hooked on nasal spray and allergy medicine, you might want to give Red Reishi a try.
Tinctures from herbal companies are now readily available, but it’s easy to make your own if you choose. Here’s the recipe from The Herb Quarterly:
- ½ cup dried Red Reishi Mushrooms, cut up
- 2/3 cup 100 proof Vodka
- 4 Tablespoons food grade Glycerin
- 2 Tablespoons Water
Combine all ingredients in a glass jar and place the jar in a cool, dry place. Shake the jar daily and steep for six weeks. Strain out the solids, reserving the liquid.
Prepare a broth by adding ½ cup of dried, cut Red Reishi Mushrooms and 1-1/4 cup of water. Simmer for two hours. Strain out the solids and allow to cool completely.
Measure the strained Vodka mixture and add an equal amount of broth. The final product will be approximately 25% alcohol by volume.
I usually make a triple batch because it’s time consuming. Also, when preparing the broth, I depart from the recipe by adding a 2” piece of Ashwagandha Root in the broth. Read our blog about the amazing benefits of Ashwagandha.
Allergy symptoms are annoying and taking medication should always be avoided if possible. If you give this a try, let me know if it works for you.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical practitioner. This information is intended to share my experience and you may not have similar results.
If you loved this blog, be sure to check out Nip That Cold or Flu in the Bud or Change is in the Air or Make Your Own Cough Syrup.
Author Bio: Beth DiGioia is a Garden Coach in the North Texas area. With the knowledge obtained through years of formal education, hands-on learning, and teaching, she collaborates with gardeners to create beautiful gardens that are functional and livable. Visit her at www.L3h2inc.com
