Do you know there is an herb that the Chinese believe promotes longevity, boosts your immune system, calms your nerves and combats cancer? It’s true! Its Ling Zhi also known as Reishi in the West. The Reishi mushroom is considered the mushroom of immortality in the east. Ling Zhi is one of the greatest tonics on earth. Its an immune modulator and potent anti-oxidant. 

In Chinese herbalism, we look at the channels these herbs enter. Ling Zhi enters the lung and heart channel. What the heck does that mean?!? Basically it helps with a persons sleep, tranquilizes an overactive nervous system, decreases stress and an immune-adaptogen. Whether your immune system is over active or under active, this herb regulates to bring it to balance. 


In the west, Reishi stops the release of histamines, promotes oxygen intake in cells, and detoxifies the liver. This mushroom is considered a scavenger of free radicals and a producer of interferons. Not only is that good for anti-aging but immunity. Further, Reishi mushrooms stimulate interferons and interleukins I & II, which is an integral part of your immune system. Now, before you run to buy this immortal herb. You should consult with your Acupuncturist or Chinese herbalist to see if this the right fit for you. Its a delicate herb that is often is mis-paired in formulations and unfortunately being promoted in coffee. Let us find the right herbal formula for you, contact our office for a consultation! 

Autoimmune 180: Learning the basics of Autoimmune Conditions, and how to change your life and your health after diagnosis 
by Christine M. Grisham, L.Ac., Dipl.OM, CMT, MA and Delaram Raisdana, L.Ac., MSTOM, CMT

Expected publication date: December 2014

We all probably used a protractor during elementary school– it’s a useful tool to keep in mind when making important decisions about your health. Why? Because it can be thought of as a measure of movement: when you make a 180 degree turn in your life, you’re setting a different course and completely changing direction. And when your health is at stake, a complete overhaul of your life is often necessary to regain your sense of wellbeing.

Sometimes you have simply have to do a total 180.

And if think you have an autoimmune disease (known as AD), where the body attacks itself, embracing the 180 degree concept may be necessary for your health. There are over 80 known ADs, with many of them sharing common symptoms and treatments.

If you don’t have a definitive diagnosis or even if you’ve had medication to treat your AD for years, it’s a good guess that you don’t feel your best.  You may actually feel awful, and for most of the time. Maybe you have intense fatigue, pain, muscle weakness, foggy thinking and an inability to concentrate. The symptoms caused by ADs are many and varied, and they are often vague, so individuals with these illnesses often go years without a proper understanding of what is happening inside their bodies.

Our intention in writing this book is to present the facts about autoimmune diseases. We want to help you understand how you can take these facts and use them to change the course of your health. We want you to feel empowered, hopeful, and an active participant in the creation of your wellbeing. We’ll break down the types of ADs, common treatment options, how you can find a healthcare provider to give you what you need to progress, and how Traditional Chinese Medicine views ADs.

To contact Christine, you can visit her website!