Finally, we come to the wonderful world of funghi…
Neither animal nor human, but with more genetic similarity to humans. The fungi family encompasses all mould, yeasts, lichen and of course mushrooms. They are some of the oldest and most common organisms on earth.
What are fungi?
Fungi are eukaryotic organisms and grow from small filaments called hyphae. They form underground networks known as mycelium through interconnected strands of hyphae.
Fungi are intelligent and communicate through this complex network, sending electrical impulses, chemical signals and nutrients to other fungi and trees. This is known as the Wood Wide Web.They rely on their environment to absorb nutrients, as they cannot produce their own food like plants. They digest organic material and then ingest it into their mycelia, releasing gases into the atmosphere.
How do they interact with you?
Fungi form biofilms, which you can think of like a fortified protective suit making it hard to penetrate. These biofilms are a survival mechanism formed between fungi and bacteria, bacteria offer virulence factors, helping fungi thrive, while the fungi provide protection for bacteria, especially from antibiotics. This can result in increased resistance to treatment for the host.
Fungi thrive in wet and damp conditions and release spores into the atmosphere. These spores can be damaging to your health, and can induce a Type 2 immune response, exacerbating asthma and initiating infections.
Damp
Historically, dampness has long been associated with disease. In the western tradition, the humoral theory linked excess phlegm as a result of damp conditions with an excess in respiratory infections, joint disease and digestive issues.
The miasma theory later developed which revolves around the idea that disease was caused by ‘bad air’ as a result of damp and foul smelling environments. This idea was later replaced with Louis Pasteur’s discovery of the germ theory of disease which showed that microorganisms caused fermentation and decay.
In Chinese medicine the concept of dampness is seen as the root cause of many disease states, resulting in joint pain, fatigue, skin issues and respiratory issues. It is linked with the notion of stagnation which is also mirrored in Ayurvedic medicine and the term ‘ama’.
Mycotoxins
Fungi produce mycotoxins from spores as a defence mechanism when they feel threatened or stressed. They can grow on any food item including cereals, dried fruits, nuts and spices and thrive in damp and humid conditions.
The solution
Regular inspection of dried foodstuffs, airtight storage and proper ventilation all help to mitigate the development of mycotoxins.
Being conscious of wet and damp environments, and aiming to ensure ventilation to stop mould from growing.
The use of warming and drying plants including spices and bitters helps to remove dampness, and prevent mycotoxin infection.
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