Known throughout the world for its wonderful culinary uses & its extraordinary medicinal benefits, the majority of medical history comes from ancient Asia where it was & still is used to activate blood, stop pain, & assist circulation. Wood ear mushrooms contain some interesting phytochemicals including beta glucans. Long term use has been verified to help to keep cholesterol levels in check & the various polysaccharides in this mushroom have a direct action on coagulation & blood clotting. Wood ear contains a phytochemical called Adenosine which inhibits blood clotting (inhibits platelet aggregation), improves blood pressure and heart health. This decreases the risk of cerebrovascular (e.g., stroke) and cardiovascular diseases. We cultivate A. Auricula-Judea and A. Polytricha for medicinal use.