Maitake
(Grifola frondosa) is a medicinal mushroom traditionally used for improving
immune function and aiding digestive health. Studies show Maitake has
anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic and cholesterol-lowering properties. Maitake is
grouped with the health-promoting mushrooms of shiitake and reishi because of
its cell growth and immune stimulating properties, but also because it can be
taken at higher doses compared with other medicinal mushrooms. Continue reading
as we discuss the health benefits and side effects of maitake mushrooms as well
as dosing and safety.
History
of the Maitake Mushroom
The
maitake mushroom is a type of polypore mushroom that grows in the wild. It is
native to Japan, but it can also be found in other parts of Asia as well. The
Japanese name for the maitake mushroom means “dancing mushroom” because it
supposedly makes you feel like dancing when you eat it!
The
maitake mushroom has a large, brown cap that can be up to 15 inches (38 cm) in
diameter. It usually grows on the decaying stumps of oak and maple trees. The
cap is covered with small pores and is dry in texture. Maitake mushrooms are in
season between August and November.
You
may be surprised that maitake can grow up to 100 pounds!
Maitake
mushrooms can also be eaten, offering a pleasant earthy taste. However, you
will see them called hen of the woods mushrooms in grocery stores or on
restaurant menus.
Maitake
Mushroom Benefits and How Maitake Works
Maitake
mushrooms have been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine as well
as Japanese cuisine. Maitake mushrooms are classified as adaptogens, which are
a category of herbs that help the body combat and deal with stress. Considering
that stress is a contributing factor to a number of different health
conditions, it makes sense that maitake mushrooms are a beneficial treatment
for a number of physical ailments. Here are some of the most-researched
benefits of taking maitake mushroom:
• Promoting healthy
immune function: one study
found that maitake
mushroom was particularly effective in stimulating healthy immune function. Its benefits were considered stronger when paired with
shiitake mushroom extract.
• Reducing
cholesterol: one study
showed that maitake extract reduced cholesterol in mice.
• Improving blood
sugar levels: animal
studies have demonstrated that maitake can help to balance blood sugar levels
and reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Active
Ingredients in Maitake Mushroom
The
main active ingredients in maitake are beta-glucans, which may have positive
effects on the immune system. In addition, maitake also contains a number of
other bioactive compounds that may provide additional health benefits such as:
• Lentinan: Helps fight infections by
stimulating immune cells and increasing antibodies against pathogens
• Polysaccharides: Provide immunomodulating
benefits by helping to support optimal function of the immune system
Maitake
Mushroom Supplements
Hot water extract yields the purest and most
potent maitake supplements. This is done by
boiling the mushroom and then straining out the water. This method ensures that
more active ingredients make it into your supplement. The remaining extract is
dried and used to make capsules or tablets. It is also possible to take maitake
mushroom supplements in liquid form, although this is less common. You may also
see maitake mushroom extract included in formulas that aid in immune support,
usually alongside shiitake mushroom extract.
A
typical dose of maitake mushrooms is 1000 mg per day.
"Magic"
Mushrooms and Maitake
Maitake
mushrooms are known as medicinal, but not magical. Therefore, no they do not
possess psychedelic properties, but rather offer health benefits such as the
ones outlined in this article.
Maitake
mushrooms have been used in Asian medicine for centuries and are considered
very safe to use. However, there has been some debate about whether or not
these mushrooms could cause any side effects when taken in large quantities. It
is recommended that those with mushroom allergies avoid consuming maitake
mushrooms or supplements containing their extract. Additionally, it is not
recommended that maitake mushrooms be consumed after surgery, or by anyone with
a bleeding condition or taking blood thinners.
In
conclusion, the maitake mushroom is a potent medicinal food that shows great
promise in the realm of natural medicine. This extraordinary fungus boasts some
wonderful health benefits and its use in traditional healing systems around the
globe is well documented. Highly valued in Japan for its health-promoting
properties; modern science is now uncovering the many health benefits maitake
possesses, including immune health, heart health and blood sugar management.
What Maitake Supplement is Best?
When
searching for a mushroom with potent healing properties, look no further than
maitake. To ensure you choose a high-quality supplement, look for one that’s
GMO free and organic and doesn’t contain unnecessary additives. Host
Defense Mushrooms Maitake are made with organic
mushroom mycelium and fruit bodies that are grown in the U.S.A. Many people
like this supplement because it’s pure, potent and provides a full spectrum of
health benefits. This formula is GMO free and suitable for vegetarians.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is
intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be
considered as a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your practitioner
prior to taking herbs or nutritional supplements.
