Flammulina velutipes
History
The significance of Enoki as a medicinal mushroom has been increasing continuously since a Japanese study was able to show that the cancer rate among Enoki growers was significantly lower than that of the normal population. Enoki is assumed to be one of the first edible mushrooms to ever be cultivated in a targeted manner. Its cultivation can be dated back to the late Chinese Tang dynasty in the years 800 to 900. Its simple cultivation also makes it attractive for research. The influence of gravity on the growth of Enoki was investigated as part of the Spacelab mission D2 in 1993.Applications tested in practice
• Improvement in the tolerability of chemotherapy and radiotherapyThe immunomodulating properties of Enoki strengthen an organism, which is placed under particular strain due to conventional medical tumour therapy. Improved tolerability of the treatment and also protection against further cell changes can be achieved by the antioxidant components.
• Immunomodulation for allergies and infections
Among other things, Enoki stimulates interferon gamma production, which is of great importance for the immune response of the organism. It is worth noting the modulating effect on the immune system. Enoki can thus be used to protect against infections as well as for excessive defence reactions (for instance, allergies).
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
As a revitalising mushroom with a high polysaccharide content, Enoki can also be used for chronic fatigue syndrome, which can occur as an accompanying symptom of other illnesses.
Other names
Flammulina velutipes, Collybia velutipes, Enokitake, velvet foot, winter mushroomOrigin
Enoki can be found in all temperate and cold regions of the Northern Hemisphere, but also in Australia.
Special features
Enoki is a very widespread edible mushroom, especially in Japanese cuisine. In Europe, too, experts have a high regard for the mushroom, which primarily grows in winter on tree stumps, tree trunks and the fallen branches of deciduous trees.The information on this page is of a general nature. It does not represent any advice for individual cases regarding the use of the individual medicinal mushrooms and is also unable to replace such advice. Please always discuss the consumption of medicinal mushrooms for preventative or therapeutic purposes with your treating doctor or alternative practitioner.