Maitake (Grifola frondosa) Mushroom

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http://herbsforhealth.about.com/cs/herbfaqs/p/maitake.htm

 

Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

Overview: The Maitake mushroom is a highly regarded Japanese mushroom in both

the culinary and medicinal world. Wild Maitake have been over harvested in Japan

however it can be found in Northern temperate forests of Europe, North America

and parts of Asia. Maitakes unusual appearance resembles a hens tail.

 

Actions And Properties [1], [2], [3]:

Adaptogen

Tonic

Anti-cancer

Total cholesterol lowering

Reduces tryglyceride levels

Lowers arterial blood pressure

Immunomodulator

Anti - HIV

Anti-hypertension

Anti-obesity

Liver damage - prevention and recovery

 

 

Constituents:

Beta-glucan polysaccharides - These are the most important constituents being

researched. They are unique and differ than other mushroom beta-glucans [3].

 

Uses:

The main focus of maitake today is on it's anti-cancer and immune system

capabilities. The best results in cancer studies are shown against breast, lung

and liver cancers. It is also used to balance blood cholesterol, sugars and

pressure. One promising study showed maitake improved T-cell activity and killed

AIDS however much more research needs to be conducted.

 

Warnings / Safety:

Since Maitake effects blood pressure in animals, persons using medications for

diabetes and blood pressure should consult with their physician first. No other

warnings have been found at the time of this writing. Use with caution as it is

still under investigation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Research And References: Research

Anti-tumor Effect - Zhong Yao Cai. 2003.

Cyclooxygenase Inhibitory and Antioxidant Compounds - J Agric Food Chem. 2002.

Can maitake MD-fraction aid cancer patients? - Altern Med Rev. 2002.

Antihypertensive and Antidiabetic - Mol Cell Biochem. 2002.

Anti-tumor Activity -Cancer Lett. 2001.

Cholesterol-lowering Effects - Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2001

 

 

References

[1] Cancer Research UK - Medicinal mushrooms and cancer.

[2] Maitake - A to Z of Health.

[3] Maitake MD Fraction - A literature review by Mark Mayell.

Maitake - Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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