Herbal Medicine 2023

Mushrooms have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries and are gaining popularity in modern times as a natural remedy for various health issues. They contain a variety of bioactive compounds , including polysaccharides, beta-glucans, and triterpenoids, which have potential health benefits. Research suggests that mushrooms may have immune-boosting properties, making them a promising option for those looking to support their immune system. They may also have anti-inflammatory properties and may be beneficial for those with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Certain mushrooms, such as reishi and lion's mane, may also have potential cognitive benefits . Studies suggest they may improve cognitive function, memory, and concentration, making them a promising option for those looking to support brain health . Other mushrooms, such as shiitake and maitake, may have potential benefits for heart health. They may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, reducing t...

    One of the most distinctive and eye-catching plants in the Seattle Japanese Garden is Ginkgo biloba, sometimes known as maidenhair tree or just ginkgo. The beautiful golden-yellow fall color of this deciduous tree, which has unusual fan-shaped leaves, rivals that of Japanese Maples. Although having broad deciduous leaves, ginkgo trees are more closely related to conifers than they are to maples or other deciduous trees. Conifers are woody plants like pine and fir that have foliage that resembles needles or scales. Ancient trees leave behind a history that is preserved in their fossilized remains and, in some cases, even in their current histories. A few species have samples from the past that date back thousands of years. Although there are significant examples of Ginkgo trees that have been planted in botanical gardens and other locations around the globe, the oldest and most extensive Ginkgo legends come from China, where the trees prevail in fragmented woods. This pecu...