Reishi Mushroom Herb of Immortality

 

Reishi, Lingzhi, (Ganoderma lucidum)

Lingzhi Mushroom (Reishi)

Lingzhi (Reishi) holds a significant place in Taoism, both in its spiritual symbolism and its use in Taoist practices. Lingzhi is often referred to as the "Mushroom of Immortality" in Taoist tradition. It is believed to have the power to confer longevity, vitality, and even immortality to those who consume it; an is an essential part of the Taoist pursuit of eternal life and spiritual enlightenment.

Lingzhi is considered a divine or supernatural herb in Taoism, symbolizing spiritual power, health, and prosperity. It is often depicted in Taoist art and iconography as a symbol of the connection between the earthly and the divine realms.

Taoist Sage with Lingzhi mushroom

Reishi mushroom is the supreme Shen Tonic of all Chinese herbalism. A beautiful reddish-brown mushroom that has been revered by the Chinese for thousands of years because of its incredible spiritual potency. What makes this herb so powerful is that it is able to nourish all Three Treasures: Jing, Chi and Shen (essence, energy and spirit). It has a broad range of benefits that affect four major organ systems: Heart, Liver, Kidneys and Lungs. Reishi is one of the most powerful natural adaptogens on earth that regulates both defeccient and excessive conditions bringing the whole body-mind into balance.  Reishi is regarded by Taoists as a protector, guide and link between the earthly realm and the spiritual realm. By the ancients Reish was known as a gateway to immortality.


Mushrooms played a vital role in early Taoism and were sought after for their magical powers. Qin Shi Huang-di (China's first emperpr) and Han Wudi ( the seventh emperor of the Han dynasty from 141 to 87 BC), both sent magicians (fangshi) in search of the fungi which were believed to grow on the sacred isles (Penglai) of the immortals located somewhere in the Eastern Sea. Many adepts were said to live on mushrooms; for example Penzu, who lived to be over seven hundred years old ate only mushrooms and is still venertated by Taoist herbalists and alchemists to this day. 
















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