The pākaiahi mushroom (Ganoderma applanatum) is an edible type of medicinal fungus that has been used for various healing abilities by Māori of Aotearoa. It is a “superfood.” Pākaiahi is strongly anti-inflammatory and tied to longevity, better immune function and mental clarity.
As a rongoā (traditional plant medicine), pākaiahi has been considered to be an adaptogen herb-like substance, meaning they help us deal with the negative effects of stress — such as increased inflammation, depleted energy levels, damaged blood vessels and various types of hormonal imbalances.
Traditionally, the mushroom was used to carry fire in the forest. It was carried by chosen people to carefully keep the mushroom alight in damp and sometimes wet conditions for miles and in rugged terrain. Once the tribe had reached their destination, the mushroom was used to start a fire for cooking and keeping warm. The focus and agility to keep the mushroom going showed the mana of the 'chosen ones'. It is for this reason that pākaiahi is revered as a fire enhancing remedy for anyone that requires a super boost.
Because they work as an “immune modulator,” pākaiahi can help restore hormonal balance, bring the body back to homeostasis and regulate activity of the immune system.
One of the best things about using pākaiahi is that it's capable of doing so much. In fact, most people notice a quick improvement in their energy levels, mental capabilities and moods while also experiencing a reduction in aches, pains, allergies, digestive issues and infections.
The mushrooms have been double extracted which means they have been soaked in alcohol and then in hot water, each of which extracts different qualities from the mushrooms.
Should you wish to consult with Joanne before purchase please feel free to contact her.
Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional.
To learn more about Pākaiahi, please read our blog post https://www.tewakarakau.com/post/p%C4%81kaiahi-the-soul-of-the-forest
Now in 50 ml bottles
PĀKAIAHI - Firestarter Tincture
Pākaiahi (Ganoderma applatum), Turkey Tails (Trametes versicolor), alcohol
This product, 'firestarter', embodies the journey of strength for me. I found this fungi in 2013 after seeing it on a trail in the Waitakere Ranges. I was called off the track to see something else and when I turned to get back on track I felt this presence watching me. I looked up and saw this magnificent being growing on an old rākau that was still standing. It was huge, most probably the oldest and largest I have seen to this day. I acknowledged it and promised to learn more about it and knew I would be back when I had the nod.
The next day I attended a wānanga and overheard a man talking about this mushroom. He was describing how it grows on dead trees and how powerful it is as a rongoā. I eased my way over to the kōrero and said I think I have found one. We talked more about it and he explained to me all the beneficial properties that this mushroom holds. He also gave me the kōrero of how his people would use the mushroom for light. Their forests are extremely damp so it was very important to have someone assigned to bringing the mushroom. They were fire carriers. I was given permission to harvest the mushroom and the very next day I did just that.
I went by myself first to harvest the mushroom. I couldnt get it down. It was lodged onto the tree so tightly that it would not budge. I went back again with my husband to help me and he managed to harvest it for me. I was in awe holding it. I could feel the primordial vibrations and couldn't wait to get it home.
I kept it out for about a month or longer to just be in its presence. I then placed it in storage where I could keep an eye on it. I sat with for over 2 years before I had permission to work with it. There was very little information on it so I had to 'sit' with it to really understand it. It was on the forefront of my consciousness all the time because I knew I would be guided to the right people to support me in working with it. And I was. I was shown how to make rongoā with it and as I was making the rongoā I received more information and other ways to work with it.
Working with the fungi kingdom is another level to working with the plant kingdom. It's primoridal and sacred working beyond.
