What is maitake?
Used in traditional Japanese and Chinese medicine, maitake is a mushroom believed to have many virtues.
It is still used today on the Asian continent, where it is considered an adaptogen.
By stimulating our immune system, Maitake helps our body to be more resistant to attacks from various external pathogens, but also helps to fight stress and fatigue.
Maitake has been widely studied in relation to metabolic syndrome, as it reduces blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Properties and desired effects
Over the past 30 years, scientists have conducted several studies on maitake mushrooms based on data from traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, revealing amazing medicinal properties.
Regulation of the immune system
Studies on Maitake have shown a significant improvement in immunity.
The literature shows that the MD fraction of Grifola frondosa, which is responsible for its pharmacological activity, has a complex effect on the immune system.
In fact, in vivo and in vitro tests have shown an inhibitory effect on certain viruses (influenza, herpes type I, hepatitis B, etc.), stimulating the actors of immunity.
During the various tests, it was observed that Maitake:
- Activates macrophages and T lymphocytes, agents that fight foreign bodies (viruses, bacteria, tumour cells, etc.).
- It would stimulate natural killer cells, responsible for destroying infected cells.
Maitake can therefore provide real support for the immune system, especially during convalescence, in immunocompromised patients or even during seasonal changes.
The hypoglycaemic potential of maitake is clear.
The reduction in blood sugar levels would be due to
- An increase in the sensitivity of cells to insulin (allowing easier entry of glucose).
- An effect on enzymes involved in glucose metabolism. In particular, by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase, it converts maltose into maltase, allowing it to cross the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream.
Metabolic syndrome
The problems of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and obesity are common nowadays.
Numerous studies have demonstrated the antihypertensive, anticholesterolemic and antilipemic effects of maitake.
One study also reported significant weight loss (3.5 to 13 pounds) in a population of 56 people who received 600 mg/day of maitake for two months.
Antitumour activity
Due to its incredible activity on the immune system, research on maitake has been, and still is, largely focused on oncology.
It was in 1957 that the first anti-tumour properties of the fungal polysaccharides were observed by Professor Byerrum's team. From then on, the search intensified.
Studies on Maitake suggested that it did not directly attack cancer cells, but that it probably acted by inducing apoptosis, but also by limiting angiogenesis (the vascularisation of cancer cells).
In this way, maitake would limit metastasis.
In vivo studies have shown that the combination of Maitake in patients undergoing chemotherapy has the ability to increase the efficacy and tolerance of certain molecules.
It would improve bone marrow recovery after treatment, limit metastasis, reduce renal (especially cisplatin), cardiac and bone marrow toxicity, and enhance the effect of certain chemotherapies.
While the results of the trials conducted are encouraging, more work is needed to establish a real benefit of maitake in the fight against cancer.
Dosage
According to studies, the effective dose would be 0.5 to 1 mg of the D fraction per kg of body weight per day, corresponding to a daily intake of 500 to 2500 mg of whole maitake powder.
A 3-week course is recommended, 2 or 3 times a year, especially at the change of seasons.
Contraindication
The effects of maitake have not been tested in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to its effect on the immune system. It should be avoided as a precaution.
Do not combine with treatments for diabetes and blood pressure.
Rare allergic reactions have been reported.
No toxicity has been observed in any of the studies conducted over the past 30 years.
Interactions
Consult your doctor before combining maitake with any treatment.