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Maitake
© Martin Wall
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Botanical names:
Grifola frondosaParts Used & Where Grown
Maitake is a very large mushroom, which grows deep in the mountains of northeastern Japan, as well as in North America and Europe. Famous for its taste and health benefits, maitake is also known as the “dancing mushroom.” Legend holds that those who found the rare mushroom began dancing with joy. Others attribute its name to the way the fruit bodies of the mushroom overlap each other, giving the appearance of dancing butterflies.
Maitake is extremely sensitive to environmental changes, which have presented many challenges to those cultivating this mushroom. However, Japanese farmers have succeeded in producing high-quality organic maitake mushrooms, allowing for wider availability both in Japan and the U.S. The fruiting body and mycelium of maitake are used medicinally.
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Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
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This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
High Cholesterol | Refer to label instructions | The mushroom maitake may lower fat levels in the blood and be useful in lowering cholesterol. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
High Triglycerides | Refer to label instructions | Studies suggest that the mushroom maitake may lower fat levels in the blood. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
HIV and AIDS Support | Refer to label instructions | Maitake mushrooms contain immuno-modulating polysaccharides (including beta-D-glucan) that may be supportive for HIV infection. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Immune Function | Refer to label instructions | Complex polysaccharides present in maitake appear to increase immune function. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Infection | Refer to label instructions | Maitake supports the immune system and protects against microbes. |
| ||
Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)
Also indexed as:
- botanicals,
- Grifola frondosa,
- herbal dietary supplements,
- herbal medicine,
- herbal remedies,
- herbal therapy,
- herbalism,
- maitake,
- plant Medicine
About this treatment
Botanical names:
Grifola frondosaHow It Works
A common denominator among some mushrooms and some herbs is the presence of complex polysaccharides in their structure. These active constituents help support immune system function and are sometimes called immunomodulators. The polysaccharides present in maitake have a unique structure and are among the most powerful studied in test tubes to date. The primary polysaccharide, beta-D-glucan, is well absorbed when taken orally and is being studied as a potential tool for prevention and treatment of cancer and as a adjunctive treatment for HIV infection. Animal studies suggest maitake may lower serum cholesterol and triglycerides. However, this research is still preliminary and requires human trials for confirmation.
How to Use It
Maitake can be used as a food or tea and is also available as a capsule or tablet containing the entire fruiting body of the mushroom. For maitake, the fruit body is higher in polysaccharides than the mycelium, which is why it is recommended. Whole-mushroom maitake supplements, 3–7 grams per day, can be taken. Liquid maitake extracts with variable concentrations of polysaccharides are available, and should be taken as directed.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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