Grifola frondosa
(Maitake)

Maitake actually means “dancing mushroom” which probably refers to its shape. For centuries the Japanese have admired the health promoting activity of Maitake. This mushroom is regarded as so valuable and rare, its places of growth are kept top secret. By now a lot is known about its individual components.

The concentration of a polysaccharide which determines cancer repressive activity (MD-fraction, also called grifolan) and an ergosterol (the pre-stage of vitamin D) is exceptionally remarkable.

In experiments it has been demonstrated that the application of an alcoholic extract of Maitake lowers the blood pressure and the application of a water based extract lowers the cholesterol level. A fair amount of mushroom powder, from the entire fruiting body, brings both levels down. This mushroom can also be applied as liver protection. Maitake is given a particular importance because of its immune system stimulation.

Other studies have demonstrated that Maitake-components can stop the growth of cancer cells. In cancer of liver, lung, breast and leukaemia clinical studies in Japan have had sensational successes. These successes are caused by the stimulation of the macrophages and T-Lymphocytes. The dangerous metastasis is suppressed. Maitake can also accompany chemotherapy to reduce the very strong side effects. Also preventively, we recommend the intake of this mushroom so that healthy somatic cells are protected from environmental pollution and cancer. The ergosterol content helps to guard against osteoporosis and rachitis.

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