Populus nigra, commonly known as Black Poplar, is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 100’ tall in sun to part shade. It is in the same family as the Willow. This pioneer tree is fast growing and covers open ground quickly, preferring moist ground. It is a short-lived tree, only living 60-70 years, and is native to Europe, North Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Black Poplar is a food plant for many caterpillars and moths and is an early source of nectar for bees and insects. Black Poplar’s love for wet soil gives us an indication of one of its important actions as a Gemmotherapy extract, as a fluid harmonizer.

The benefits of Black Poplar Gemmotherapy extract are best received by honoring the order in which the body heals. Black Poplar is quite useful in resolving acute respiratory symptoms along with other partnering extracts.  Later in the healing process, once elimination is optimized, it can be used to resolve chronic symptoms involving the lower body arteries or respiratory inflammation.

Those who could benefit from Black Poplar extract may exhibit some or all of the following:

• Male and female over 25 years of age (without an allergy to aspirin)
• In need of strong immune protection (with Walnut)
• In the later stage of acute inflammation of the bronchi (with Black Currant and alternated with other respiratory extracts)
• With recurring Bronchitis (alternated or paired with Hornbeam)
• To prevent possible thrombosis

There is much more to learn about Black Poplar as a Gemmotherapy extract, so be sure to listen to this 20-minute podcast. You will discover the primary and secondary actions of Black Poplar Gemmotherapy extract and gain a clear picture of the various use cases of this extract.  

Consider subscribing now to my Restoring Immunity podcast on Spotify or ApplePodcast/iTunes. Or, if you prefer to watch videos, subscribe to my YouTube channel.  

You can find Black Poplar, as well as other single extracts, for purchase on my Immunity store.

The shrub Hippophae rhamnoides, also known as Sea Buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub native to Mongolia, Russia and Northern Europe. Unless you have traveled to those areas, it is unlikely you would encounter it unless you come across one that has been cultivated. Sea Buckthorn grows in diverse locations: along sea coasts, tolerating salt spray; in Central Asia in desert-like conditions; in Europe above the tree line. It has an extensive and aggressive root system and can be considered invasive in some situations. It is frequently used for land reclamation, to inhibit soil erosion, and for wildlife habitat. Sea Buckthorn is an exceptionally hardy plant, and it tolerates poor soils and temperatures to -45 F. Although it can stand up to the cold weather, it must have good drainage and sunshine. The plant itself, with stiff, thorny branches, sends a clear message to back off. This alludes to its gift to us, protection from unwanted pathogens. 

The essence of this shrub is to defend. The benefits of Sea Buckthorn Gemmotherapy extract are best received by honoring the order in which the body heals. Sea Buckthorn is a primary extract for harmonizing the nervous system, where it is used in micro-doses. As a superb tonic for the immune system, it is often used in acute situations to protect individuals from the spread of flu and viruses. It also offers many benefits for long term use to support overall immunity and ease the aging process. 

Although at one time or another we all can benefit from Sea Buckthorn extract, in general, this person may exhibit some or all of the following:

• Child or adult as immune support 
  • As protection against infectious states
  • As early support during infectious states
  • To prevent relapses of infectious states
• Aging adults (in micro-doses) 
  • To slow the aging process, improve mood, memory, and cognitive functions

There is much more to learn about Sea Buckthorn as a Gemmotherapy extract, so be sure to listen to this 15-minute podcast. You will discover the primary and secondary actions of the extract and gain a clear picture of the various use cases. Consider subscribing now to my Restoring Immunity podcast on Spotify or ApplePodcast/iTunes. Or, if you prefer to watch videos, subscribe to my YouTube channel. You can find Sea Buckthorn, as well as other single extracts, for purchase in my Immunity store.

Stocking your pantry and fridge for a natural disaster is one thing, but stocking to prepare for illness in your household is quite different. Whether you are preparing for the current threat of coronavirus or simply the flu and cold season, there are essentials that will reduce the duration of your symptoms and support your body’s ability to heal.

Here’s a fail-proof list of supplies that should get you through any acute respiratory illness.

Gemmotherapy extracts to have on hand for acute respiratory symptoms:

• Black Currant
• Oak
• Common Alder
• Dog Rose
• Hornbeam
• Hazel
• Lithy
• Silver Lime
• Black Honeysuckle
• Sweet Chestnut or Horsechestnut (these are useful for deep coughs that do not clear with other protocols)
• Sea Buckthorn or Black Poplar to protect the caregivers or others in the household

All are available for purchase here.

Wool Socks: Yes that is right—keep a pair handy for your own DIY hydrotherapy treatment. Support the efforts of your body’s immune and lymphatic system while you sleep!

Hot Water Bottle: This German version is my personal favorite, and every home should have at least one for warming the kidneys at the first sign of illness, easing abdominal cramping or keeping cold toes toasty.

Lemons!!: Keep six or more on hand in the fridge to use at the first sign of a sore throat for this soothing hot lemon and honey drink.

Ginger Root: Keep a healthy-sized organic ginger root in your fridge as ginger tea is superb for soothing headaches, nausea and any inflammatory condition.

Miso Soup Paste: Find a favorite brand in the refrigerated section of your local grocer for a nourishing and simple soup. Miso soup is the perfect first real food when your appetite returns. If your digestion is ready, try enhancing it with fresh greens, rice, and/or buckwheat ramen.

Bags of Organic Frozen Fruit: Stash a few in the back of your freezer so you know you will have enough for a smoothie or two.  

Coconut Water: When recovering from an acute illness, but particularly with symptoms of diarrhea and/or vomiting, rehydrating the body is essential. Coconut water will provide some welcome relief.

Herbal teas: Thyme tea is a wonderful soother for respiratory inflammation. If you don’t have access to your own thyme plant, then consider ordering this tea.

Having taken these steps in your kitchen, now consider that there is nothing more valuable than prevention. Wash your hands throughout the day, eat smart, rest well and find time every day to be outdoors.

If you’d like to know more about handling acute illness in your home, here are posts I have shared over the years. Be sure to read early warning signs, the support you need the first 24-48 hours and the value of providing continued care as you attempt to return to full gear.

This is quite a hardy stew, perfect for a blustery March meal. It also pairs well with the seeded buckwheat bread I shared last month. 

Ingredients

• 2 T extra light olive oil 
• 1 medium organic onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves or 1 shallot, minced 
• 1 1/2 t smoked paprika or good quality Spanish paprika
• 1 T fresh thyme
• 1/4 t crushed red pepper flakes 
• 2 T tomato paste 
• 2 large organic carrots, diced 
• 1 head savoy cabbage, finely chopped (green cabbage can be substituted)
• 1 1/2 cups organic french puy lentils (black or brown lentils can be substituted) 
• 1 can organic chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 can organic chopped, peeled tomatoes (or fresh Roma tomatoes, if available) 
• 2 cubes vegetable bouillon
• Salt and pepper, to taste 
• 1 large bunch stemmed and torn or roughly chopped kale, chard or spinach 

Directions

1. Warm olive oil in a soup pot with a heavy bottom. Add onions and saute over low heat until soft and translucent. Add garlic or shallots, paprika, thyme, pepper flakes and carrots. Stir well to coat the carrots and saute until there is a change in color but they are still firm. Add tomato paste, cabbage, dried lentils and chickpeas, again stirring well to coat with the oil and spices. Add canned tomatoes and water to cover. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer for twenty minutes and cover with a lid. 
2. The type of lentil you use will dictate the cooking time from this point. Cook only until the lentils are tender but retain their form.
3. Add bouillon cubes, additional water if desired, salt and pepper to taste. Gently incorporate the torn greens 5- 10 minutes before serving so they will retain their bright green color. Simmer until the greens are tender.

Enjoy!

Sequoia Gigantea is native to California, growing on the wester slope of the Sierra Nevadas, continuing north into Oregon. It grows up to 400 feet tall. In addition to its height, the girth is spectacular, 20-35 feet across in diameter. Its lifespan is up to 4,000 years. After 1840, the Giant Redwood was introduced into other parts of the world.

Giant Redwood’s primary action is as a tonic for the adrenal gland, stimulating cortisol production, resolving inflammation and associated pain. Its secondary effect is on the endocrine system, affecting the prostate and testicle health and harmonizing the production of estrogen and testosterone. In men, these hormones regulate libido, erectile function and sperm production. In women, these hormones support the health of the uterus and ovaries as well as bone mass. Further, the hormone harmonizing of Giant Redwood in both men and women acts on the osteoarticular system, improving bone stability and the health of tendons and ligaments.

The extract is known for its high mineral content. The high level of calcium in the extract supports mineralization of bones. The high level of magnesium produces a tonic effect, and the zinc content sustains prostate function.

In Practice

The benefits of Giant Redwood Gemmotherapy extract are best received by honoring the order in which the body heals. Giant Redwood can be used at any time for acute symptoms, for short periods only as it is very deep acting. It can be micro-dosed at the start of a case to support the nervous system in those who need focus and stamina for straining mental or physical tasks. Once elimination has been optimized, it can be used in protocols to harmonize hormones in both men and women.

Although there are many variations to the individual who could benefit from Redwood extract, in general this person may exhibit some or all of the following:

• Male or female, adolescents to adults
• Men or women with mental or physical exhaustion
• Men or women with acute injuries involving bone, tendons and ligaments
• Men with prostate symptoms
• Women with ovarian conditions which would benefit from harmonizing estrogen production, and to prevent osteoporosis

There is much more to learn about Giant Redwood as a Gemmotherapy extract, so be sure to listen to this 20-minute podcast. You will discover more about the plant itself, further uses of Giant Redwood Gemmotherapy extract and a glimpse of it through the lens of Asian medicine.  

Consider subscribing now to my Restoring Immunity podcast on Spotify or ApplePodcast/iTunes. Or, if you prefer to watch videos, subscribe to my YouTube channel.  

You can find Giant Redwood, as well as other single extracts, on my Immunity store. 

As you approach the forest edge, it’s hard to miss spotting the distinctive, thorned tangled of canes and delicate pink blossoms of Dog Rose. The prickly, arching stems commonly form hedgerows between pasture lands or support its climb up and over rock walls or other co-existing shrubs. Dog Rose thrives in all types of soil but prefers a terrain that is moist but well-drained. Its growth provides shelter and habitat for birds and small mammals such as hedgehogs. Rosa canina is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, butterflies​/​moths and other pollinators with its nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Dog Rose Gemmotherapy extract is a tonic for the immune system. It activates the first line of defense of the immune system, the macrophage cells in the respiratory and the osteoarticular systems. Macrophage cells, a type of white blood cells, are capable of engulfing and destroying all pathogens in their path. 

In addition, it resolves allergic reactions and inflammation of the mucosa lining of the mouth, respiratory, and sinus areas and reduces histamines (although not as effective as Black Currant).

Dog Rose’s secondary effect is harmonizing for the Central Nervous System. It is also known to promote the healthy development of bones and teeth in children by stimulating the cells responsible for bone growth and mineralization.

In Practice

The benefits of Dog Rose Gemmotherapy extract are best received by honoring the order in which the body heals. Although frequent short term use of this extract in acute protocols is appropriate, when it is used to address chronic symptoms further consideration is required. Chronic inflammatory states addressed by Dog Rose need to be eliminated, and therefore elimination must be supported by an additional well-suited elimination extract. Taking this precaution will prevent aggravated symptoms that could include headaches, digestive disturbances, joint stiffness or skin inflammations. 

Although there are many variations to the individual who could benefit from Dog Rose extract, in general, this person may exhibit some or all of the following:

• A child with symptoms involving teeth, bones, or growth
• Child or an adult in a fragile state
• A weak physical immunity, recurring acute respiratory symptoms
• A weak emotional immunity, expressing a lack of emotional safety
• Slow to recover from physical or emotional symptoms
• Difficult to approach and connect with
• Suffers from states of mild hysteria

When looking at extracts that boost immunity in children or adults, they are often also diuretic in nature, pushing the performance of the kidneys. There are cases in which this is not beneficial, when the body is too weak or the kidneys are in distress. This is when Dog Rose may be an excellent start. Pairing it with a partnering extract to facilitate the transportation and elimination of the pathogens destroyed is important. Common Alder is an excellent choice as it does not push the kidneys to work more efficiently. In those who are more robust and can benefit from kidney tonification, then Silver Birch Buds or Common Birch Buds could be considered. As in any action to resolve inflammatory states, support for the adrenals should be considered, and that could come from Black Currant or Oak.

There is much more to learn about Dog Rose as a Gemmotherapy extract, so be sure to listen to this 20-minute podcast. You will discover more about the plant itself, further uses of Dog Rose Gemmotherapy extract and a glimpse of it through the lens of Asian medicine.  

Consider subscribing now to my Restoring Immunity podcast on Spotify or ApplePodcast/iTunes. Or, if you prefer to watch videos, subscribe here to my YouTube channel.  

You can find Dog Rose, as well as other single extracts, for purchase on my Immunity store.

This is an amazingly simple, decadent dessert that no one will believe is vegan and gluten free!

Crust

• 1 cup pitted Medjool dates, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes
• 1 ¾ cup hazelnuts or pecans 
• 3-4 T raw cacao nibs
• 1 T coconut oil

In the food processor, process nuts and cacao nibs until ground. Add drained dates and coconut oil to make a smooth paste. Press into a tart pan with a removable bottom (line with parchment paper if it is not non-stick). Place in the freezer until caramel layer is finished. 

Caramel layer

• 1.5 cups Medjool dates, soaked in hot water for 10 minutes
• 4 T tahini
• pinch of salt
• ½ t vanilla extract, or a pinch or two of vanilla powder

Process all together until smooth. Spoon into the tart crust and use your wet your hands to evenly distribute. 

Coconut Chocolate Ganache

• 2  400 ml cans full-fat coconut milk, chilled until the cream separates
• 150-200 grams dark vegan chocolate
• 1 t vanilla extract, or a pinch or two of vanilla powder

Spoon the solid part of the coconut milk out of the can and warm gently over low heat. Add vanilla. Break up the chocolate and stir into the warm milk until all is melted and smooth. Quickly pour over the caramel layer and chill for 2-3 hours until set.

The remaining coconut milk is wonderful in smoothies or in my super seeded chia pudding. 

When ready to serve, remove the tart from the pan and serve. Enjoy!

Inspired by Claire, @HealthyFrenchWife

Vaccinium myrtillus is found natively in Northern Europe, the British Isles, Ireland, Iceland and across the Caucasus into northern Asia. It can be found growing in its natural state across heathlands, thriving in acidic and nutrient-poor soils. These small plants grow close to the ground and are under one foot tall (25-30 cm). 

For those living in North America, it is important that Vaccinium myrtillus is not the same plant as the native American Blueberry, Vaccinium cyanococcus. The difference becomes quite obvious when looking at the fruit and plant.  This is a small, compact plant, and the fruit has a dark red, fragrant flesh with a red juice that turns blue. Vaccinium myrtillus berries grow separately on low bushes. In contrast, the American Blueberry has a white or translucent flesh that grows in clusters along the branches of a much larger plant. 

Take a close look at the European Blueberry plant and you may see some hints of its offerings as a Gemmotherapy extract. Its ability to not only grow but thrive in acidic soils points to its usefulness in resolving states of acidosis, and the intricate, fine structure of the plant itself is similar to the microcirculation it improves. 

European Blueberry is primarily a tonic for the intestines, regulating the motility of stool and improving flora. It resolves inflammation in the blood vessels and intestines, making it especially important when addressing dysbiosis. There is an additional primary action of preventing E. coli bacteria. from adhering to the mucosal lining of the intestines and urinary tract. 

There are two secondary actions of Blueberry. The first is on microcirculation in the head, strengthening vein walls in both the eyes and ears, and the other as a mild diuretic effect on the kidneys. 

Indirectly, Blueberry extract is known to improve menstrual symptoms through its optimization of stool elimination. 

In Practice

The benefits of Blueberry Gemmotherapy extract are best received by honoring the order in which the body heals. Blueberry can be used at any time for acute symptoms. It is a primary extract for optimizing elimination for those with medium to high vitality. Later, when addressing chronic symptoms, it can be used in protocols to resolve states of acidosis and improve microcirculation, particularly in the eyes and ears, and rebalance bacteria levels in the intestines and urinary tract. 

Although there are many variations to the individual who could benefit from Blueberry extract, in general, this person may exhibit some or all of the following:

• Male and female of all ages from 6 months up
• A history of inflammatory symptoms of the urinary tract or intestines, dysbiosis 
• A history of ear or eye inflammation
• A history of menstrual irregularities

There is much more to learn about European Blueberry as a Gemmotherapy extract, so be sure to listen to this 20-minute podcast. You will discover more about the plant itself, further uses of European Blueberry Gemmotherapy extract and gain a glimpse of it through the lens of Asian medicine.  

Consider subscribing now to my Restoring Immunity podcast on Spotify or ApplePodcast/iTunes. Or, if you prefer to watch videos, subscribe to my YouTube channel.  

You can find European Blueberry, as well as other single extracts, for purchase on my Immunity store.

While I continue to eat my cleansing meal of fruit first thing each morning, the cold of winter often brings a desire for something more. When I came across the recipe that inspired this substantial Seeded Chia Pudding, a new tradition was born! The fact it makes itself overnight makes it a win-win solution.

Ingredients

• 1 can organic coconut milk, then refill the can with the organic nut milk of your choice
• 6 T chia seeds
• 3 T ground flax seed
• 3 T whole hemp seeds
• 3 T sunflower seeds
• 3 T pumpkin seeds
• 3 T flaked coconut
• 1 t cinnamon
• 1/2 t vanilla
• Splash of maple or date syrup, optional

Directions

Mix together with a wire whisk, cover and refrigerate overnight. Serve in the morning topped with berries, diced apples, mango or citrus.

Enjoy!

Acer campestre, also known as Field or Hedge Maple, is a fast growing, medium tree maturing to 30-50’. Widespread in its natural state, Field Maple can be found across Europe and as far east as the Caspian Sea. Quite tolerant of most soil types, this tree is best known for its showy autumn color and the sweet syrup produced from the boiled-down sap of the tree. It was widely used by the indigenous tribes throughout America as both a medicinal and food source.  

The benefits of Field Maple Gemmotherapy extract are best received by honoring the order in which the body heals. Field Maple in micro-doses is a primary extract for harmonizing the nervous system and in larger doses for supporting chronic symptoms of the liver and gall bladder once elimination has been optimized.  

Although there are many variations to the individual who could benefit from Field Maple extract, in general, this person may exhibit some or all of the following:

• • Male or female adult
  • A child over six years of age who has experienced medications in utero or in early childhood, or diets high in fat, resulting in congestion of the liver
  • Adults who consume or have a history of consuming diets high in fat, animal protein or processed foods, which can inhibit liver function
  • Adults or children over six years of age who experience evening ruminations, negative thoughts and emotions
  • Adults or children over six years of age who experience sleep challenges 11 p.m.- 3 p.m., most often unable to fall soundly asleep until after 1 a.m.
  • Adults who experience gall bladder colic or gall stones
  • Adults with long-standing viruses such as shingles, herpes or Epstein-Barr 

There is much more to learn about Field Maple as a Gemmotherapy extract, so be sure to listen to this 15-minute podcast. You will discover the primary and secondary actions of Field Maple Gemmotherapy extract and gain a clear picture of the various use cases of this extract.  

Consider subscribing now to my Restoring Immunity podcast on Spotify or ApplePodcast/iTunes. Or, if you prefer to watch videos, subscribe here to my YouTube channel.  

You can find Field Maple, as well as other single extracts, for purchase on my Immunity store.

Betula verrucosa, Silver Birch tree, is the one species in which the seeds, sap and bud are each made into Gemmotherapy extracts. Each one of these extracts offer a very specific tonifying action, and all three have an impact on the kidneys.  

Let’s begin with the Bud. 

The primary action of the extract made from the Bud of Silver Birch is as a tonic on the immune system and respiratory system. 

The extract has an anti-inflammatory effect on the mucosa in the respiratory system in the case of flu and colds and increases resistance, and it inhibits the production of histamines throughout the body, but mostly in the lungs, digestive system and skin.

The secondary action is as a kidney tonic with a mild diuretic effect, yet certainly not as strong as Silver Birch Sap. 

It improves the elimination of toxins on a cellular level, particularly uric acid. 

It does not increase the volume of urine as much as the concentration of waste products in the urine. 

The indirect effect of these actions cause a reactivation of metabolism which has slowed due to insufficient elimination of waste products 

Who might consider Birch Buds:

Children over 6 years through adults to 30 years of age with moderate vitality to optimize elimination and provide general drainage and detoxification along with other organ-specific extracts. 

They will also have signs of slowed metabolism, often seen as mild weight gain, sluggishness and/or some localized inflammation that continues to hang around. 

These are not individuals with deteriorating or dis-eased organs, but rather a general slowing of functionality.  

Those over 30 would look to Common Birch for similar purposes. 

The Sap

The Sap of the Silver Birch tree, which is diluted and processed as a Gemmo extract, has its tonic action on the kidney as a diuretic. This is its primary action. 

It supports the removal of lipids, toxins and minerals that are present in unhealthy levels. 

The indirect action, much like the Buds, is the improvement of metabolism because waste products are more effectively eliminated. This is a secondary effect.

The person who would benefit from Silver Birch Sap may be any age from infants to mature adults, have any level of vitality but will be able to tolerate the strong diuretic effect of the Sap. Specific symptoms indicating the usefulness of this extract would include:

• All with skin conditions, particularly eczema – there is no better first extract for eczema
• All with chronic dryness of skin and hair
• Any adult with a build-up of lipids exhibiting as cellulitis
• In the spring as cleaning for a maximum of three months 

The Seeds

To begin, I want to emphasize the fact that we are only micro-dosing Silver Birch Seed at this time: 1 to 3 drops.  

So, all of the information is based on a micro-dose given early in the day, as the stimulating effect can cause sleep disturbances if taken later in the day.

Its primary action is as a tonic on the Central Nervous System and adaptogen for mental stress, focus and memory. 

It is also a strong protector of dopamine. Dopamine plays a central role in pleasurable reward behavior, inhibition of prolactin production (involved in lactation), sleep, mood, attention, learning, behavior, control of nausea and vomiting, pain processing, controlling movement, emotion and cognition.

The protection of dopamine leads to secondary support for the kidneys and adrenals.

Who might consider Silver Birch Seed:

Anyone who has symptoms that originate in the Central Nervous System.

I use Silver Birch Seed as a first extract in highly complex cases to jump-start communication between organ systems. 

I also use it to:

• Improve focus and concentration in students and elderly (only in children over 6 years of age) 
• Improve mood and motivation in those with mental and physical lethargy
• Reduce or resolve mild tremors

There is so much more to learn about the Silver Birch extracts, so be sure to listen to this podcast. You will discover the primary and secondary actions of the Gemmotherapy extracts made from the bud, sap and seed, and so much more from the perspectives of an Herbalist, a Gemmotherapist and an Acupuncturist. 

Consider subscribing now to my Restoring Immunity podcast on Spotify or ApplePodcast/iTunes and you won’t miss an episode of Gemmo Memos. Or, if you prefer to watch videos, subscribe here to my YouTube channel.  

You can find Silver Birch Buds, Sap and Seed, as well as other single extracts, for purchase on my Immunity Store. 

When you see Meera Sodha’s name attached to any vegan recipe, you can be assured it is fresh, flavorful and interesting. I was especially interested to discover how the bitterness of the radicchio and tartness of the tamarind paste tasted in the end product. I can assure, you it was delightful. Meera’s version included tofu, and since I avoid tofu, I have replaced it with portobello mushrooms in my version.

Ingredients

• 400 g wide, flat rice noodles (purchase the widest you can find)
• 12 Tbsp coconut aminos or tamari sauce
• 2 Tbsp tamarind paste
• 2 Tbsp maple syrup
• 4 large portobello mushrooms, cleaned and cut into 2 cm cubes
• 3 Tbsp corn starch or arrowroot
• Rapeseed oil
• 4 garlic cloves or 2 small shallots, peeled and finely sliced
• 3 bird’s eye chilies, finely sliced (reduce if you prefer less spice)
• 500g or 1 lb. tenderstem broccoli (baby broccoli or broccolini), stalks cut into 1 cm pieces at an angle, tops left whole
• 1 large head radicchio, core removed, cut into thin strips
• 1 bunch Thai basil leaves (around 20 g)
• 2 limes, cut into quarters

Directions

1. Prepare noodles according to package directions, rinse and cover with cold water, separating them and set aside
2. Mix the coconut aminos, tamarind and maple syrup in a small bowl then set aside.
3. In a shallow bowl, toss the mushroom cubes in corn starch until coated. 
4. Add oil to a large frying pan, fitted with a lid and heat over a medium cooktop setting.
5. When the oil is hot, add the mushroom pieces, turning them regularly, for a couple of minutes, until crisp and golden all over. Use tongs to transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper.
6. Drain the noodles well in a colander.
7. While noodles drain, saute the garlic/shallots and chilli for a minute in the large frying pan, then add the chopped broccoli. 
8. After a few minutes, add the radicchio, cover and cook for a few minutes more. 
9. Uncover, add the mushroom pieces, noodles, sauce, and basil leaves, mixing well and cooking for a few minutes until all items are warmed.  Be careful not to break up the noodles.
10. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy!

Adapted from Meera Sodha