Maitake

Grifola frondosa

Maitake, scientifically known as Grifola frondosa, is a edible and medicinal mushroom that has been consumed around the world for centuries. It is particularly popular in Japanese cuisine, from which the name Maitake originates. It is also known as “”Hen Of The Woods”.

While traditionally considered a gourmet edible, it has garnered increasing attention in recent years for its potential health benefits, prompting a series of clinical trials to investigate its therapeutic applications. While the number of studies is still relatively limited, the existing research offers promising insights into Maitake’s potential, particularly concerning its immunomodulatory and anti-cancer properties.

How does Maitake work?

The bioactive components primarily responsible for Maitake’s effects are beta-glucans. These are complex polysaccharides recognized for their ability to interact with the immune system. The specific beta-glucans known as “D-Fraction” have garnered special interest by researchers for their anti-tumor properties.

Maitake Clinical Trials

Clinical trials have explored Maitake’s potential in various health conditions including cancer, immune function, metabolic health, and other diseases. Much more research has been conducted in animal and in-vitro studies. The clinical trials on Maitake, while still in their early stages, highlight its potential as a therapeutic agent, particularly due to its immunomodulatory properties. Below is an uncomplete list of clinical trials conducted on Maitake.

YearSpeciesStudy NameNumber of ParticipantsFungal-Derived TreatmentDosage
2000Maitake (Grifola frondosa)Effects of Maitake (Grifola frondosa) glucan in HIV-infected patients35Fruiting Body and/or MD-Fraction6000 mg/day or 20 mg +4000 mg/day
2003Maitake (Grifola frondosa)Effect of Maitake (Grifola frondosa) D-Fraction on the Activation of NK Cells in Cancer Patients10D-Fraction80-300 mg/day
2004Maitake (Grifola frondosa)Safety of Maitake D-Fraction in Healthy Patients28D-Fraction1 Drop/Kg Body Weight
2009Maitake (Grifola frondosa)A phase I/II trial of a polysaccharide extract from Grifola frondosa (Maitake mushroom) in breast cancer patients: immunological effects34Fruiting Body Extract2-20 mg/day
2010Maitake (Grifola frondosa)Maitake Mushroom (Grifola frondosa) Extract Induces Ovulation in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome80Extract162 mg/day
2015Maitake (Grifola frondosa)Maitake mushroom extract in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS): a phase II study21Fruiting Body Extract6 mg/day
2022Maitake (Grifola frondosa)Effect of Maitake D-fraction in advanced laryngeal and pharyngeal cancers during concurrent chemoradiotherapy: A randomized clinical trial141D-Fraction3000 mg/day

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