Sciencewood Ramesh Kumar P | Page 87

Pg.no. 87 Part Used: Fruiting body Habitat: Cordyceps mushrooms grows wild on the Himalayan Plateau This mushroom has a long history of use in Chinese herbalism. It is considered a great tonic for building physical strength and endurance. There is a substance in cordyceps which dilates the lung’s airways, providing more oxygen to the blood. For this fact it is very popular with athletes. This healing mushroom is also used to treat asthma, cough and bronchitis. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties and has the ability to relax the bronchial walls. It’s a great immune system booster as well. Dandelion: Scientific Name: Taraxacum officinale Common Names: Lion’s tooth, blowball, fairy clock, wetweed, priests Crown Family: Asteraceae Part Used: Leaves, flowers, root Habitat: Dandelion is native to Europe and Asia but grow all over the world The dandelion was in use as far back as ancient China for its medicinal properties. It was used as a potent diuretic and detoxifying herb. Other common uses of this plant were to treat breast inflammation, digestive disorders, and appendicitis to stimulate milk flow. European herbalists used dandelion as a remedy for eye problems, diarrhea, diabetes and fever. Gynostemma: Scientific Name: Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Common Names: Jiaogulan, southern ginseng, miracle herb, longevity herb, miracle tea, Jiao Gu Lan Family: Cucurbitaceae Part Used: Leaves Habitat: Gynostemma is native to Japan, China, Korea, and Vietnam Gynostemma (Jiaogulan) is an adaptogen. It can bring you body into a state of balance. This herb is great for increasing strength and protecting the body and mind against stress.