When Houstonian Mushie Stambler was pregnant with her second child, she couldn’t find the chemical-free, washable baby supplies she wanted. That led her and her husband Levi Feigenson to launch a company focused on safe materials and a natural color palette.
Now, two years later, Mushie is an international baby brand with a thriving community and a strong presence on social media. Read on to discover some of their best-selling products.
Shiitake Mushroom
Shiitake mushrooms are edible, earthy fungi that are cultivated and sold throughout the world. They are a part of the Lentinula genus, a group of about 20 different species that are indigenous to Asia.
They’re commonly used in soups, stews, stir-fries and other dishes. They’re a low-calorie, nutrient-rich source of copper (one 100g serving provides 16% of the daily recommended intake), iron, manganese, riboflavin, amino acids, vitamin B5, and potassium!
Mushrooms also contain eritadenine and beta-glucans, which help reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. They may also promote weight loss by helping your body to burn fat.
The immune-supporting compounds in shiitake mushrooms, including 1-3 beta-glucans, polysaccharides KS-2, glycoproteins and eritadenine, help boost white blood cells for fighting off bacteria, viruses and other toxins. They also protect against cell damage and increase immunity, which is vital for maintaining overall health.
Maitake Mushroom
Maitake mushrooms are a great addition to a health-promoting diet. They’re rich in nutrients and can be used for all manner of conditions, from immune system support to heart disease prevention.
They’re also known to promote healthy weight management. They’re a good source of vitamin D, which is an important nutrient for bone health.
These fungi also have anti-inflammatory properties and help improve liver function, making them ideal for those with liver issues or poor digestion. The mushrooms can be ingested as a whole or in dietary supplements.
Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced forager, incorporating the mushroom into your diet can be simple. Its earthy flavor can be added to a variety of dishes, including pasta or rice.
Research shows that the polysaccharides found in this mushroom, especially D and MD-fractions, can inhibit tumor growth and support immune function, bone marrow, and liver health. These findings have led some scientists to believe that maitake may be an effective natural alternative to chemotherapy and radiation.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
For thousands of years, traditional Chinese medicine has recommended lion’s mane mushroom as a tonic for digestive health and general vitality. Its extracts are available as supplements.
It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains erinacines, hericerins, steroids, alkaloids and lactones—all of which may help your body protect itself from chronic disease.
Moreover, it can promote brain health by helping to regenerate nerve cells, improve the function of the hippocampus—the area of the brain responsible for memory and emotional responses. This improves your mood and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, Delk says.
In addition, lion’s mane mushrooms can lower inflammation in fat tissue, which can decrease your risk of heart disease. It can also prevent oxidation of cholesterol, which can cause plaque to form in the arteries and increase your risk for heart attack or stroke.
Enoki Mushroom
Enoki mushrooms are an excellent source of nutrients, including antioxidants, dietary fiber, and B vitamins. They are also known to be anti-inflammatory and immune system boosters.
Moreover, they contain a compound called ergothioneine, which is believed to prevent cancer. It has been found to inhibit the growth of liver, stomach, and breast cancer cells in test-tube studies.
The phenols and polysaccharides present in enoki mushrooms are antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radical damage. They are also beneficial for brain function and memory.
These mushrooms are high in dietary fiber and help lower bad cholesterol levels in the blood. They are also known to prevent thrombosis (blood clots in the veins) and atherosclerosis.
Enoki mushrooms are a great addition to soups, ramen, stir-fry, noodles and omelets. They are also a delicious snack or appetizer. It’s best to purchase fresh, firm enoki mushrooms with a dry surface, and avoid those that are slimy or discolored.