Shiitake Mushroom Information
(Lentinula edodes)
"Shiitake mushrooms!"
This mushroom is indigenous to Japan, China and other Asian countries with temperate climates. It is to be found in the wild on fallen deciduous trees such as alder, beech, chestnut and oak.
Known in China as Xiang gu (fragrant mushroom); and in Japan, as Shiitake (golden oak mushroom), because of its historical association with the shia (golden oak – Quericus sp.) tree.
This mushroom is renowned as both a food and a medicine. It has a most exotic and delicious taste and is a central part of many Oriental dishes. It is increasingly being adopted in the West by health conscious consumers and gourmet chefs.
Lentinula edodes is undoubtedly the leading mushroom worldwide that can be used both as a nutritious and tasty food and a highly effective medicine. In Oriental medicine it has been used for a wide range of health problems and its curative properties are well attested to.
It has been particularly valuable in treating high blood pressure and lowering blood cholesterol.
Shiitake Cultivation
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