Known for its high content of beta-glucans [71, 72], powerful immune-stimulating polysaccharides, the gourmet mushroom Maitake is one of the most commonly used medicinal mushrooms in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
The common English name for Maitake is Hen-of-the-woods, due to its occasional resemblance to the fluffed up tail feathers of a hen. It is one of the most easily recognizable edible mushrooms in North America, though it is only to be found in eastern Canada and U.S. down to the Mid-Atlantic States.
Maitake extract has been found to increase the so called tumor-necrosis-factor [73, 74, 75] as well as other cancer fighting mechanisms. [76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81] Specific cancer types studied include colorectal, prostate, liver, lung and breast. [82] FDA has approved a Phase II study of Maitake extract on breast and prostate cancer. [83]
The immune enhancing properties of Maitake extract have been under intense scrutiny by the scientific community. [84, 85, 86, 87] Its anti-viral properties have been of particular interest, since viruses are especially difficult to combat. [88] Research on Maitake extract as an adjunct in the treatment of HIV is ongoing. [89]
Blood sugar is another area where Maitake extract appears to have an effect. In one study, insulin-resistant individuals that were administered Maitake experienced an average 25% blood-glucose drop. [90, 91, 92]
In addition to research on Maitake extract, there are also many studies on the individual active compounds, in particular beta-glucans. A patent application exists on "Methods of using beta glucan as a radio-protective agent." The patent in question "relates to methods for treating and preventing radiation and/or chemotherapy related injury and/or afflictions, such as myelosuppression and decreased macrophage activity." [93] This protective effect against radiation poisoning and degradation of the immune system may be why NASA gives beta-glucans to astronauts.
Additional therapeutic properties of Maitake extract as indicated by scientific research include: anti-bacterial, anti-Candida, moderating blood pressure, respiratory conditions, nerve tonic, and stress reducer. [25]
Paul Stamets, in the book "Mycelium Running," also refers to research on leukemia in which Maitake has demonstrated some positive effect. [134]
Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any herb (or mushroom) except as advised by a licensed medical practitioner.
Credits: Thank you, Paul Stamets, for research references.
The common English name for Maitake is Hen-of-the-woods, due to its occasional resemblance to the fluffed up tail feathers of a hen. It is one of the most easily recognizable edible mushrooms in North America, though it is only to be found in eastern Canada and U.S. down to the Mid-Atlantic States.
Maitake extract has been found to increase the so called tumor-necrosis-factor [73, 74, 75] as well as other cancer fighting mechanisms. [76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81] Specific cancer types studied include colorectal, prostate, liver, lung and breast. [82] FDA has approved a Phase II study of Maitake extract on breast and prostate cancer. [83]
The immune enhancing properties of Maitake extract have been under intense scrutiny by the scientific community. [84, 85, 86, 87] Its anti-viral properties have been of particular interest, since viruses are especially difficult to combat. [88] Research on Maitake extract as an adjunct in the treatment of HIV is ongoing. [89]
Blood sugar is another area where Maitake extract appears to have an effect. In one study, insulin-resistant individuals that were administered Maitake experienced an average 25% blood-glucose drop. [90, 91, 92]
In addition to research on Maitake extract, there are also many studies on the individual active compounds, in particular beta-glucans. A patent application exists on "Methods of using beta glucan as a radio-protective agent." The patent in question "relates to methods for treating and preventing radiation and/or chemotherapy related injury and/or afflictions, such as myelosuppression and decreased macrophage activity." [93] This protective effect against radiation poisoning and degradation of the immune system may be why NASA gives beta-glucans to astronauts.
Additional therapeutic properties of Maitake extract as indicated by scientific research include: anti-bacterial, anti-Candida, moderating blood pressure, respiratory conditions, nerve tonic, and stress reducer. [25]
Paul Stamets, in the book "Mycelium Running," also refers to research on leukemia in which Maitake has demonstrated some positive effect. [134]
Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any herb (or mushroom) except as advised by a licensed medical practitioner.
Credits: Thank you, Paul Stamets, for research references.
About the Author:
Dr. Rafael has worked as a writer and researcher in the area of natural health since finishing Chiropractic College in 1996. He currently focuses on medicinal mushrooms, including Maitake Extract, in cooperation with the business Cordyceps Reishi Extracts, LLC. To see the references for this article, go to the Maitake Supplement page. To view a reference, click its corresponding number.
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