Reishi Babies
Have you heard the term “Reishi Baby”? Curious to know what they are? Are you thinking about jumping on the Reishi Baby Train?
Here is some basic information to help you on the journey to deciding whether consuming Reishi in pregnancy is right for you and your baby.
What is a Reishi baby?
A Reishi baby is a baby whose mother consumed the medicinal medical mushroom Reishi throughout pregnancy and often continues to whilst breastfeeding. These babies are said to be noticeably calmer and more content whilst still being alert to their surroundings. Reishi babies also cry less and parents are reporting that these behaviours continue as the baby grows into a toddler.
What exactly is Reishi?
As mentioned, Reishi is a medicinal mushroom that has been used for thousands of years and is very much rooted in the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Reishi is an adaptogenic, meaning it helps the body manage stress and recover from a stressful situation. In TCM it is used to strengthen the immune system as well as the heart, liver, kidneys and lungs. In a number of cultures, Reishi has been dubbed the mushroom of ‘immortality/longevity’ and is said to make you live longer. Reishi brings balance to the body, mind and spirit as it is a powerful Shen (spirit) tonic, giving the person an overall sense of calm and peacefulness.
With over 400 different nutrients in Reishi, it is an absolute powerhouse of a mushroom. Reishi has a large nutritional profile so I will only list a few:
- Vitamins- most notable Vitamin D and Vitamin B complexes
- Protein
- Antioxidants
- Amino acids
- Enzymes
- Polysaccharides
- Triterpenoids
- Peptidoglycans
- Beta-glucans
- Minerals (potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, + many more)
- + A lot more!!
Reishi comes in capsules, powder and liquid form and is known for having quite a bitter taste.
Benefits to the mother
- Calming during pregnancy and labour and birth
- Balancing of the mind, body and spirit
- Stronger immune system and cardiovascular system
- Packed full of nutrients
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- May help balance blood sugar levels
- Better quality of sleep
If you Google “Reishi in pregnancy” you will see conflicting messages from a range of sources including medical professionals. Some people swear by Reishi in pregnancy, some say only in very, very small amounts and some say none at all. Whilst Reishi is considered safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding as it is classified as a Class A safety herb, I urge you to do your own research and speak to your health care providers.
Not many studies have been done on the use of medicinal mushrooms in pregnancy, but there is growing evidence showing the benefits to both mother and baby.
Eastern cultures have used medicinal mushrooms and herbs in pregnancy for thousands of years. Perhaps Western cultures need to take a step back from man-made supplements and take a leaf out of the TCM book. I have trust in TCM, do you??
