I am not a coffee drinker. Fortunately never was. Caffeine is not only an addictive, acidic substance, it triggers a stress response, which induces excess adrenal hormone production and the classic on-edge, fight-or-flight emergency response that effects every cell of our body. Caffeine too stimulates the production of stress hormones that directly acts on the brain and nervous system, which reduces the production of serotonin, the feel-good hormone (though the reduction in serotonin not only impacts our mood, it even impacts our ability to learn and sleep well). Like sugar, caffeine does offer an immediate “high,” an immediate energy boost, but its “benefits” are short term, with consequences that far out-weigh the immediate energy lift it offers. I for one don’t need any added stressors to my body or my day. Nor, in the context my commitment to living my life health-fully, it doesn’t seem to make sense to develop a daily practice to an addictive substance that could impede my overall aim.
But I do love reishi lattes! Ummmm. Reishi lattes are really delicious! I steam a small amount of reishi, almond milk and a little “bourbon vanilla” stevia or raw honey into a highly-nutritional “latte” when I want something warm and soothing to drink. Reishi benefits are endless. Reishi, a medicinal mushroom used in ancient Eastern medicine, is touted as “the mushroom of immortality,” and is used by many to boost the immune system, calm nerves, relieve allergies and inflammation and even fight cancer and ward off heart disease. According to Traditional Eastern Medicine, reishi benefits bring the body back into both physical and emotional balance. Dr. Ray Sahelia, author of “Mind Boosters,” says the reishi mushroom can calm the mind, as well as improve memory, concentration and focus.” Many too use reishi now as a “tonic” to develop energy and to support digestion. With these compelling benefits, “boot” the “morning-joe” and give a reishi latte a try for an excellent coffee-like tasting beverage! You can add a little cacao for the additional antioxidant benefits and a mocha flavor too! I buy what I have found to be the very best powdered reishi from a really cool and generous-hearted Master Herbalist named Rehmannia Dean Thomas at Shaman Shack: http://www.shamanshackherbs.com/shop/wild-crafted-red-reishi/ But you too can buy amazing reishi tonics from the “father” of herbology in the US, Master Herbalist Ron Teeguardan, at Dragon Herbs: http://www.dragonherbs.com
Enjoy!
