What Are Maitake Mushrooms?
Maitake mushrooms are delicious, spicy and woodsy mushrooms, also called Grifola frondosa, “hen of the woods” or “king of the mushrooms” since they grow in large clusters, resembling the fluffed-up tail feathers of a nesting hen. Usually found growing at the base of elm, oak and maple trees, some grow as massive as 100 pounds or more.
The name “maitake” originates from Japan and translates “dancing mushroom” because people danced for joy when discovering a cluster of mushrooms for its healing powers. You don’t have to go to a forest to find these potential healing fungi since you can find them fresh or dried in Japanese markets, specialty stores, health food stores and upscale supermarkets.
For its therapeutic properties as a supplement, you may want to consider the maitake mushroom extract or powder for antiviral, anticancer, and immune-system boosting properties.
Some report the fungi might help control blood sugar and high blood pressure levels as well. (x) Before you consider taking the fungi extract or powder, talk to your doctor for diagnoses, accurate medical information and permission.
History of Maitake Mushrooms
The maitake mushroom has an extended history of use as a delicacy and medicinal mushroom. A native of China dating back to the Han dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD) notes from Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing cited the fungus treating the spleen, stomach ailments, hemorrhoids, and calming the nerves. (x)
But Japan is where the fungi made a name for itself as a valued commodity during the feudal Japan period (1185 – 1603 AD). The lords traded with their subjects a corresponding weight in silver for the mushroom. Maitake value and esteem in Japan caused expert growers to hide their harvest areas called “secret troves” and revealed their location in wills or whispered into their son’s ear before dying. (x)
What is Maitake Mushroom Extract Used For?
In more recent times, the maitake mushroom extract benefits have acquired worldwide recognition as more studies reinforce a large number of health-supporting properties. The existence of D-fraction, a particular compound isolated from the maitake mushroom, appears to have healing attributes for cancer patients. A study performed on stage II to IV cancer patients showed significant improvement with the patients. (x)
Nutritional Value
The mushroom is nutritious and low-calorie with protein, fiber and B vitamins. The B vitamins are riboflavin, thiamine, folate, pantothenic acid, pyridoxamine and niacin. Other properties include copper, phosphorus, potassium, and small amounts of zinc, selenium and manganese.
The maitake mushroom extract continues to gain worldwide popularity around the world since more people appreciate the fungi for their medicinal purposes, adaptability and delicious attributes at the dinner table. Try to remember to consult with your doctor before taking the mushroom supplement based on the additional discoveries of its benefits.
Benefits of Taking Maitake Mushrooms
Stabilizes Blood Sugar
Prolong high blood sugar levels can cause some serious concerns regarding your health. High blood sugar leads to the advancement of diabetes and causes other side effects, including weight loss, blurred vision, headaches and increased thirst. Regarding long term effects can lead to nerve damage, kidney problems and other maladies.
If you are on a healthy and balanced diet, maitake mushrooms may contribute to stabilizing your blood sugar levels to avoid adverse symptoms. A study conducted at Nishikyushu University in Japan indicated administering the fungi to diabetic rats improved blood sugar levels and glucose tolerance. (x) Another study with mice showed similar results, stating that the mushroom’s fruit body holds powerful anti-diabetic properties in the treated mice. (x)
Might Kill Cancer Cells
As mentioned earlier, some studies researched the apparent connection relating to maitake mushroom benefits and cancer. Research strictly relating to animal model studies and in vitro shows that mushrooms may hold cancer-fighting elements that may compel you to add them to your diet or take the extract.
One study using an animal model reported in the International Journal of Cancer indicated that administering the maitake mushroom extract to mice assisted in effectively blocking tumor growth. (x) And in vitro study showed the extract supporting the suppression of breast cancer cells. (x)
Builds Up Immune Function
Having a healthy immune system is vital for your overall health because it’s a natural defense mechanism as a valid protector of your body to help fight off bacteria, viruses and other invaders.
Studies indicate that adding one or two servings of maitake mushrooms to your daily diet may help build up your immune system that wards off diseases. Based on an in vitro study reported in Annals of Translation Medicine, the fungi stimulated the immune reaction and became stronger after adding shiitake mushrooms. (x) The University of Louisville’s Department of Pathology submitted findings that agreed with the application of maitake and shiitake as immune system boosters. (x)
Lowers Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol builds up in your arteries, causing hardening or narrowing the arteries that block blood flow and forcing your heart to work even harder, pumping blood throughout your body. Keeping your cholesterol in check helps you live with a healthy heart.
The Journal of Oleo Science reported that an animal model conducted on mice found maitake supplementation reduced cholesterol levels of mice. (x)
Lowers Blood Pressure
One of the most common health problems is high blood pressure, with 34 percent of the US adult population affected by the condition. (x) It manifests when the blood pumping through the arteries become so forced it places an incredible burden on the heart muscle, causing it to deteriorate.
Regularly consuming maitake mushrooms helps lower the blood pressure, preventing high blood pressure manifestations. Reported in the International Journal of Medical Sciences said an animal model performed on rats where they administered maitake mushroom extract lessened the rats’ age-related hypertension. (x) A similar study conducted at Tohoku University in Japan showed that administering rats with maitake mushrooms for eight weeks reduced their blood pressure, including cholesterol and triglycerides levels. (x)
Supports Fertility
A condition called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) causes an overproduction of male hormones via the ovaries, triggering symptoms such as weight gain, acne and infertility. (x)
Maitake mushrooms may help treat PCOS and combat other issues like infertility. One of the Departments of Gynecology in Tokyo discovered that maitake mushroom extract induced ovulation for 77 percent of patients with PCOS, nearly as favorable as other conventional medications for treatment. (7)
If you don’t have any of these conditions, still make sure you check with your doctor before considering the fungi as a supplement. Even if you are in the best of health, consider the fact that the mushrooms contain adaptogens. They are properties that help restore and balance of your body toward an overall better health.
Maitake Mushrooms Extract Side Effects
Taking maitake mushrooms is relatively safe for most people with little risk or side effects. However, some people report allergic reactions after ingesting the fungi. If you notice any adverse reaction or food allergy symptoms, including redness, swelling or hives after consuming the mushrooms, stop eating them right away, and immediately consult with your doctor.
If you happen to be on any type of medication to lower the blood pressure, blood sugar or cholesterol levels, make sure you talk with your doctor before consuming maitake mushrooms. Furthermore, if you happen to be pregnant or breastfeeding, you might want to avoid eating or limiting your consumption of the fungi to prevent any adverse symptoms since no studies substantiate the safety of this group eating maitake mushrooms.
Where Can I Buy Maitake Mushroom extract?
You can purchase maitake mushroom extract supplements at BulkSupplements.com. The company is an industry-leading manufacturer and distributor for pure dietary supplements. BulkSupplements.com is not just a consumer brand. It also supplies pure ingredients to other brands that distribute food and other supplement products. All products at BulkSupplements.com are manufactured and tested according to current and proper manufacturing practices.
Are you interested in trying maitake mushroom extract as a dietary supplement for its potential to support the immune system, healthy cardiovascular system, fertility, and stabilize blood sugar as well as reduce cancer? Contact BulkSupplements.com to place an order today.
Bottom Line
The maitake mushroom is an ancient healing gem that has continued through the centuries helping the world stay healthy. Also known as the king of mushrooms, hen of the woods and dancing mushrooms, it is an edible fungus commonly harvest in China, Japan and North America.
The mushrooms assist in balancing the blood sugar, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, heightening immune function, and supporting fertility as well as decreasing cancer cell growth. The mushrooms are low in calories but contain a substantial amount of fiber, protein, riboflavin and niacin. Their taste is robust, woodsy and spicy, giving the palate an adventure as a desired addition to many recipes. They can be roasted, sautéed or stuffed.
The maitake mushroom side effects are minimal with potential hives, swelling or redness of the skin. A pregnant or breastfeeding woman may want to avoid or limit consuming the maitake mushroom unless consulted with their doctor.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.