Maitake

Maitake Functions

• Immunoregulator: contains a potent beta-glucan patented under the name Fraction-MX.
• Antiviral.
• Helps to relieve pain, as it has analgesic effects.
• Anti-inflammatory: contains palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids.
• Hypotensive: inhibits the enzyme that triggers the rise in blood pressure.
• Blood sugar regulator: decreases insulin resistance.
• Prebiotic and probiotic.
• Metabolic syndrome (high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, hyperglycemia).
• Kidney problems as a consequence of metabolic syndrome.
• Antioxidant: helps reduce signs of aging.
• Cholesterol reducer: lowers blood and liver lipids.
• Releases toxins from the liver.
• Protects against neurodegenerative diseases.

Active compounds of Maitake

• Grifolan: beta-glucan with immunomodulatory and antioxidant functions.
• Grifolin: beta-glucan with immunomodulatory functions.
• Ergothioneine: antioxidant.
• Ergosterol: precursor of vitamin D, essential for fixing calcium in the bones.
• GABA
• Minerals: potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, sodium, iron, calcium, and trace elements.
• Vitamins: especially from group B, such as thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), and niacin (B3).
• Essential amino acids: such as glutamine, alanine, and threonine.
• Organic acids: pyroglutamic, lactic, acetic, malic, citric, succinic, oxalic, and fumaric.
• Proteins: 25% of its dry weight.
• Fiber: contains the disaccharide trehalose, which contributes to the development of bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus favoring the intestinal microbiota.

Through clinical studies with people, the antitumor action of Maitake has been demonstrated, both at a preventive level and also as an adjuvant in cancer treatments (it attacks Natural Killer cells) and to relieve side effects of chemotherapy. In clinical trials with humans, it has been shown to be effective for prostate, breast, liver, and lung cancers.

Maitake contains the healthy version of MSG (l-glutamate), flavor enhancer present in many processed foods, in this case without harmful effects on health.

Origin and morphological characteristics of Maitake

The scientific name it receives is Grifola frondosa which refers to an abundant network, at the same time alludes to a mythological beast associated with the Greek word griphos. It is sometimes also known as chestnut mushroom, since we can see it growing on dead chestnut trunks. This mushroom has become known from the East, mainly from Japan, so the usual name in the therapeutic and supplement field comes from Japanese. Maitake literally means "dancing mushroom".

History of Maitake use

It is a highly valued medicinal and edible mushroom by Asian gastronomy for more than 3000 years for its unique flavor (umami), aroma, and texture.

There are records that in the Japanese feudal era it was used as a monetary value, being exchanged for its weight in silver. It was considered the king of mushrooms for its tonic and relaxing effects. The Traditional Chinese Medicine highlights its qualities for treating anxiety, as well as the spleen, pancreas, and stomach.

Contraindications

We recommend not taking the extract when taking anticoagulants, antidepressants, or antipsychotics. Treatment should be discontinued before surgeries. It is necessary to consult a doctor in case of doubt or if undergoing any type of medical treatment.

Not suitable for people with liver dysfunctions. Not suitable for alcoholics. Not suitable for children or pregnant women.

Scientific studies

1. Naguib AM, Apparoo Y, Xiong C, Phan CW. Maitake Medicinal Mushroom, Grifola frondosa (Agaricomycetes), and Its Neurotrophic Properties: A Mini-Review. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2023;25(2):11-22. doi:10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2022046849
2. Gariboldi MB, Marras E, Ferrario N, et al. Anti-Cancer Potential of Edible/Medicinal Mushrooms in Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(12):10120. Published 2023 Jun 14. doi:10.3390/ijms241210120
3. Mayell M. Maitake extracts and their therapeutic potential. Altern Med Rev. 2001;6(1):48-60.