Black fungus also known as Ear fungus named for its visible appearance of a shriveled ear is a fungus that is a part a fungus species known as auriculariaceae. The fungus is of typical size of 2 to 15 cm and is used in many Asian cuisines. This fungus has an earthy flavor but is packed with nutrients. In this blog we will look at the health benefits of this amazing fungus species.  What is Black Fungus? True to its name black fungus is of a black or dark brown color and the mushroom has a jelly-like chewy texture. They are sold in a dried form but become jelly like when mixed with water.  The black fungus is native to humid climates and grows on bark of trees and logs. This mushroom type is cultivated commercially in China, Hawaii, India and other tropical countries in Asia or Pacific island. Black fungus is also used as an ingredient in cuisines such as stir-fries, and stews. In addition to this black fingus is also used as a medicinal herb to treat illnesses like jaundice and sore throats.  A Brief Look at Black Fungus Nutritional Value A typical 100g serving of black fungus contains 335 calories. The nutritional breakdown is as follows with the daily value percentage mentioned.  Nutrition Facts For 100 g of black fungus (100g) Nutrient  Value %DV Calories  335   Fats 0g 0% Saturated fats 0g 0% Trans fats 0g   Cholesterol 0mg 0% Sodium 120mg 5% Carbs 73g 27% Net carbs 69g   Fiber 4g 14% Sugar 0g   Protein 11g   Calcium 380mg 38% Iron 12mg 150% Potassium 757mg 16% Vitamin D 0μg 0% Apart from the main nutrients black fungus also contains vitamin B5, B6, B3 and small amounts of minerals like zinc, and magnesium that are needed by the body in trace amounts.  Health Advantages of Black Fungus Helps Reduce Risk of Cognitive Decline Consuming more than one cup of cooked black fungus mushrooms prevents the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Black fungus is rich in antioxidants and also contain polysaccharides that act as a barrir against Alzheimer’s disease. Old aged people should particularly consume this herb to keep their brain health optimal.  Improve Digestive Health  All mushrooms including black fungus have a high fiber content and this great for gut health. A cup of black fungus has 20 grams of fiber which is 70% of daily requirement. High fiber also lowers the cholesterol level. The polysaccharides present in the black mushrooms are nutrition of the good bacteria present in the gut and this helps the healing of digestive problems and leads to a healthier digestive system.  Prevention of Iron Deficiency Iron is the component of the blood and is required for a proper number of red blood cells. Iron helps produce some vital proteins in the body such as haemoglobin, myoglobin that help distribute oxygen within the body. Black fungus with its rich iron content helps people who suffer from iron deficiency in blood. For people 51 years or older it is recommended that they consume 99 grams of black fungus to meet the body needs of iron. Iron deficiency can result in weakness and fatigue so to keep the energy levels high black fungus are perfect source of nutrition.  Has Anti-inflammatory Qualities Regular consumption of ear fungus also help prevent breakout of allergies and inflammation of mucous membrane. The polysaccharides present in the fungus help treat nasal infections and reduce inflammation of the nasal passages.  Minimize Stress Diseases  Back fungus is a great source of vitamin B2 and riboflavin, both vital nutrients that boost immunity and allow the body to avoid stress. This means that stress related symptoms can be reduced and the herb can be used as a preventive medicine against the development of diseases.  Effective Cure for Stroke  Among all the diseases, stroke and heart attack are diseases that are due to the blockage of blood circulation in heart and brain. Boiled ear mushrooms when consumes act as a blood thinner which allows the blood to be circulated much more effectively throughout the body. This helps to decrease chances of heart attack and stroke. It also enhances recovery in patients that have suffered from stroke. A Solution for Hypertension Hypertension results from high cholesterol level,. The surplus cholesterol in the arteries and veins leads to atherosclerosis and obstructs the blood flow in arteries. The narrowing of renal arteries is the leading cause of blocked blood flow. Using the back fungus is an effective natural remedy for treating cholesterol level. Detoxifies and Cleanses the Body  Black fugus can also clear the body of toxins which tend to accumulate overtime. These toxins can be found in food or can be environmental pollutants and can pose much risk and lead to diseases. Black fungus gets rid of toxins as it reduced inflammation.  Conclusion Dry black fungus is much more than just a culinary ingredient; it's a nutrient-packed superfood with tremendous health benefits. It supports heart health, aids in digestion, and boosts immunity. Such an ingredient, rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential minerals, can easily boost overall health. Dry black fungus can be mixed in a variety of dishes making them instantly nutritious. It can be added to soups, stir-fries, or salads, making this simple ingredient prove that even small dietary changes can significantly improve health.

There are countless types of mushrooms in this world that have significant benefits. It is easier to imagine herbal medicines production with them. The same goes for spices and herbal beverages, which have remarkable demand in some regions. The question that comes into consumers’ minds is about their prices. What makes them so expensive? To understand the entire concept, have a detailed look at it below. Why Are Dried Mushrooms in Demand?            There is a clear reason for that: its culinary applications.Dried mushrooms are one of the essential ingredients used in traditional cuisines. Asian countries and a few non-Asian ones focus on its massive use. The flavor, texture, and nutrients make dried mushrooms a key element in the culinary industry. This is why you will find its uses in sauces, soups, herbal teas, etc. Labor-Intensive Harvesting Process     There is a cost of everything. Likewise, mushroom cultivation requires effort and cost to provide the best yields. It is a labor-intensive process where lots of struggle and patience are required. That increases the time, labor, and input costs. This is because fungi farming is different from other types of farming. Special care makes this harvesting process successful. It includes humidity, sunlight, and temperature levels with accurate measures. The Drying Process: How It Adds to the Cost    Their drying process is also a multi-step activity, which increases the cost. That includes slicing, soaking in salt solution, and then filtering. After these steps, the drying process takes place, which needs special attention. To keep the aroma and its preservation, experts use different methods. Some use dehumidified drying, and some use a hot-air drying process. Some use a freeze-drying process, and each process depends on different conditions. That adds up to the cost, and this makes dried mushrooms more expensive. Limited Growing Regions and Seasonal Availability  Limitations make everything different from others. Likewise, mushroom farming is only possible in some places. There are some regions where it successfully takes place. If we discuss Europe, there are countries like Poland, Lithuania, Netherlands, and Belgium that have a high success rate. If you look at North America, there are around twenty states in the US that have successful mushroom farming. China, India, and Japan have the most share in mushroom cultivation since they meet the conditions very well. Usually, from September to April, their cultivation takes place. That is because of humidity levels and other conditions. High Demand for Wild and Exotic Mushroom Varieties       There is a high demand for dried mushrooms that belong to wild and exotic types. It is because they offer unique flavor and nutrients. Thus, the dishes like soups, herbal teas, and sauces in specific regions get strong flavor. They add intensity to spices, which is why China and India have prominent names in this industry. Impact of Climate and Environmental Factors  There are specific conditions of climate where farmers successfully do cultivation. From 16  to 21 degrees Celsius, mushroom farms get the best results. Also, indirect sunlight with moderate or low intensity helps them to grow at an optimum rate. One of the core factors is moist condition, which helps mushrooms expand. The humidity level should be high, so they can get the best response from the environment. Long Shelf Life But Complex Storage Requirements  Their shelf life is long, which makes them perfect for spices. To give them such a long shelf life, experts use complex storage methods. They have to ensure that the mushrooms can’t get any contact with moisture. This is why their preservation method requires more dryness to keep the mushrooms surviving. Once they reach enough dryness level, they are ready to go for a long shelf life ahead.  How Quality and Rarity Influence Pricing           There is a general rule; whatever is rare, it has high value. That thing becomes high in demand especially when it provides essential benefits. Likewise, dried mushrooms are expensive because they offer all the key elements culinary and medical industries need. That increases its prices automatically. Since they have a traditional impact on Chinese people, their prices get a high impact from that. They help treat specific diseases and deficiencies in the human body.  The Role of Supply Chain and Transportation Costs  Since a few countries have a strong hold on dried mushroom exports, it shows a high supply chain impact. That adds up to the supply chain costs, which directly come from transportation. Fuel prices, longer distances, customs duties, and various factors increase the costs. However, China is good at maintaining low costs in the overall supply chain process, which makes it a leading exporter.  Organic and Sustainable Farming Practices        Since new methods are coming into the industry, organic and sustainable types are prominent methods. You will find the cost and complexity levels at a higher rate in these two types. However, sustainable farming practices are at an initial stage, where a few suppliers are using them. This is a costly method, which increases the overall price of dried mushrooms. Likewise, organic production is more expensive than traditional, and only a few suppliers are following it besides having a balance with traditional practices. Are Dried Mushrooms Worth the Investment?           Some businesses go for expansion by trying other sectors. If someone is looking to invest in the dried mushroom industry, it is a profitable opportunity. However, they need to thoroughly analyze the industry before they take steps. Restaurants, medical, and beverage industries usually import dried mushrooms for various reasons. If you belong to these industries, more opportunities are waiting for businesses.  Conclusion: The True Value of Dried Mushrooms      From flavor enhancers to herbal medicines ingredients, dried mushrooms have a prominent impact. Also, their cultivation, harvesting, and distribution processes are costly. As a result, their overall worth and price increase in the global market, which makes them rare too. These rarity and benefits make them essential ingredients for culinary and medical industries.  

Hericium erinaceus is the Lion's mane mushroom. It is a giant greyish-white and rough mushroom with a shaggy appearance that resembles the mane of a lion. It can be taken in its raw form, cooked, dried form, or even boiled to make tea. They are used for functional foods. Their extracts are used for functional foods. It has the taste of seafood, crab, or lobster, and it is rich in substances that have a positive impact on body organs, mainly the brain, heart, and intestines. Lion's mane mushroom is an exotic herb that has been utilized in Chinese medicine for the healing of various maladies. In this blog, we will take a closer look at how this fungi is beneficial for health, so keep reading to learn more about this amazing herb. Lowers Risk for Dementia Neurons are capable of forming and developing new connections but become impaired as one grows older. This may explain why, in many elderly, mental performance tends to be slower or slower than before. Studies have found that Lion's mane mushrooms contain two special compounds that can stimulate brain cell growth: of which there are two classes: hericenones and erinacines. Animal research has also shown that this mushroom has assists the body to combat Alzheimer's disease, which is a progressive brain disorder that results in memory loss. Specifically, the Hericium Erinaceus Lion's mane mushroom and its extracts were found to alleviate symptoms of dementia in mice and inhibit neurotoxicity of amyloid – beta plaques in the brain of mice. Reduces Anxiety and Depression We also saw that up to 30 percent of people living in developed countries reported having symptoms of anxiety and depression. Chronic inflammation is just one of the many causes of anxiety and depression. However, it has been found that an extract from the lion's mane can increase brain cell regeneration in mice, improving the function of the hippocampus and the area of the brain responsible for processing memories and emotions. Reducing anxiety and behaviors associated with depression is the outcome of improving hippocampal function. Boosts Healing of the Nervous System The human nervous system is made up of the brain, the spinal cord, and nerves, which are distributed all over the body. They coordinate to release and transfer messages that regulate almost each and every activity of the body. Damage to the brain or spinal cord may result in paralysis or loss of mental capacity, and it will take time to heal.  However, scientific studies have revealed that Lion's mane extract contributes to the enhancement of the process of regeneration of the nerves by speeding up the growth and regeneration of the nerve cells. Indeed, Hericium Erinaceus lion's mane extract has been found to decrease rehabilitation time by 23 – 41% in rats with nervous system trauma. On a similar note, the Lion's mane mushroom extract also has the potential to lessen the severity of a stroke on the brain. In one study, when high doses of Lion's mane extract were given to rats immediately after a stroke, it resulted in drastic inflammation reduction, and this, in turn, caused a reduction in the size of the stroke-related brain injury by a third. Although no human research has been conducted to assess the impact of the Lion's mane mushroom, the evidence is still positive. Heals Ulcers of the Gastrointestinal Tract It is possible to develop sores at any point along the digestive tract extending from the stomach to the small intestine and large intestine. The following conditions usually result in stomach ulcers: a history of long-term NSAID usage that inflames the stomach mucosa and an H. pylori infection. Lion's mane mushroom extract should be able to prevent the occurrence of gastric ulcers because it was found to suppress the growth of H. pylori bacteria and enhance the gastric mucosa barrier. In addition, they also found that Lion's mane mushroom extract works to decrease inflammation, thus avoiding damage to other sections of the colon. They might possibly help in the treatment of inflammatory bowel conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Additionally, a study conducted on individuals suffering from ulcerative colitis found that the supplement containing 14% extract from the lion's mane would improve their quality of life and reduce their symptoms after three weeks. However, more research is required to validate its impacts. Improves Cardiovascular Health However, such factors that are likely to increase the risk of heart disease include a high body mass index level, high triglyceride levels, high levels of oxidized cholesterol and the tendency of blood clot formation. Studies also reveal that Lion's mane extract affects these factors, thus lowering the risk of heart disease. Some experiments on rats showed that the extract of Lion's mane has the potential to enhance the fat breakdown and decrease the levels of triglycerides. Since obesity and high triglycerides are some of the factors that contribute to heart disease, this is one way through which we can be able to explain why Lion's mane is good for heart health. Conclusion Hericium Erinaceus Lion's Mane can be added to your diet or taken as a supplement to naturally improve your mood, cognitive performance, and general well-being. As with any supplement, contact a healthcare expert to determine the proper dosage and confirm it is acceptable for your specific health needs.