Who is Katya Difani?
I am an herbalist trained in Western herbal medicine from Bastyr University and other herbal mentors. I have owned an herbal apothecary in Kirkland, Washington called Herban Wellness for ten years, where we consult with people about how to use herbs, mushrooms, superfoods, and other elements to support health.
What conditions do you address the most with Real Mushrooms?
I recommend mushroom extracts the most for building and strengthening the immune system. This can include those with weak immune systems that tend to get sick a lot, as well as those who have a history of cancer in their life or family. I also consider mushroom extracts beneficial for promoting and maintaining vibrant health, helping with energy and healthy sleep cycles. More recently, I and my staff have been recommending Lion’s Mane mushroom for its regenerative and restorative effects on the nervous system and the brain. I also often recommend Turkey Tail mushroom for those with a history or current diagnosis of breast cancer. Finally, I recommend Reishi mushroom for overall health and vitality, and for someone managing an underlying viral load.
Top 3 recommended mushroom extracts for healthy individuals?
I tend to like to recommend the 5 Defenders Mushroom Complex for healthy individuals, since it really covers the bases of health, from immune system to heart, liver, and brain health, as well as helping to manage inflammation in the body. I tend to like blends. I also really like Reishi mushroom extract for overall health. Thirdly, Cordyceps is a nice one for a healthy individual who may want more energy and to enhance their sexual health.
What dose you typically recommend for your patients?
If the mushroom extract is for overall health, I will recommend the individual dose according to the package instructions, ¼-1/2 tsp of extract per day. If the person is taking mushroom extracts for a current health condition or for regenerating tissue, I will recommend 1 tsp, at least once/day, sometimes up to 3 times/day.
How do you typically use our mushroom extracts with your patients/clients?
I recommend people either use the mushrooms in food (cereal, yogurt, smoothies, etc.) or get creative and add them to their coffee, make a blended herbal/mushroom latte with nut milk and add other superfoods or coconut oil, or spice to the mix and drink hot or cold. I also often encourage them to add the mushrooms to veggie or bone broth, where the mushroom flavor is naturally is tasty.
Where can we learn more about you?
You can learn more about me and my herbal apothecary and wellness shop in Kirkland, WA by visiting my website. Thanks for joining in and learning more about me!