Research & Development Report

Maitake Mushroom Positive Benefits

Maitake (Grifola Frondose) is a type of mushroom that was first used in traditional Asian medicine. It grows in forests in Asia, Europe, and eastern North America. It forms large clumps on tree stumps and roots. It contains natural compounds that might help fight tumors, stimulate the immune system, and lower blood sugar levels.1 Applications of the use of the maitake mushroom by people include enlarged ovaries with cysts and diabetes.2 Maitake is rich in beta-glucans, which have been studied for their potential in promoting healthy cell growth and division.

A study on the orally consumed Maitake mushroom on the immune system was published in 2014.3 This study found that the “short-term oral application of the natural glucans from Maitake and Shiitake mushrooms strongly stimulated both the cellular and humoral branch of immune reactions, which were significantly higher than those of the active hexose compound (AHCC).”4 These glucans were found to significantly stimulate the defense reactions against infections and cancer.

A study of oral administration of Maitake mushroom on breast cancer patients found that “both immunologically stimulatory and inhibitory measurable effects in peripheral blood. The botanical agents produce more complex effects than assumed and may depress as well as enhance immune function.”5

Mushroom Glucan Chart
1
Gary Deng, etal “A phase I/II trial of a polysaccharide extract from Grifola Frondosa (Maitake mushroom) in breast cancer patients: immunological effects” PubMed Central (Aug 2013): PMC3751581
2
Webmd, “Maitake Mushroom,” webmd.com
3
Vaclav Betvicka, Jana Vetvickova, “Immune-enhancing effects of Maitake (Grifola Frondosa) and Shiitake (lentinula edobes extracts” PubMed Central (Feb 2014): PMC4202470.
4
Betvicka, Vetvickova, “Immune-enhancing effects.”
5
Deng, “phase I/II trial.”
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