Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) is one of the most valuable
medicinal mushrooms used in Traditional Oriental Medicine,
as well as in modern clinical practice.
In China and Japan Cordyceps is called "Winter worm, Summer grass" or
Caterpillar Mushroom for a very good reason – it is a fungus that sprouts out of
the dead worms or insects.
It grows in the highlands of the Far East on the sunny sides of the mountains in
Tibet, Nepal, China, India and Japan in severe conditions of low temperatures and
lack of oxygen.
This amazing mushroom can be found in areas over 12,000 feet above sea level.
Tibetan herdsmen first discovered Cordyceps mushroom over a thousand years
ago in the high plateaus of that region thinking it was a type of grass. They
noticed that when their sheep and yaks grazed on this strange looking "grass"
they became stronger and healthier. Later Chinese herbalists began to use
Cordyceps for human ailments. The mushroom was used as a cure-all but was
especially thought to be an aphrodisiac and a supplement for healthy male sexual
function.
The difficulty in collecting cordyceps made it one of the most expensive
mushrooms used in traditional Chinese medicine. In previous centuries it was
affordable only to the Imperial family.
Based on its heeling properties it was well known as "Elixir of Life".
Cordyceps collected in the wild is richer in its properties than the cultivated one,
but wild Cordyceps is usually very expensive reaching prices of over $1000
for just 100 grams. Wild Cordyceps from the Tibet Mountains is regarded to be the
most valuable in the world.
According to ancient records, Cordyceps improves the function of circulatory,
respiratory, digestive, urinary and hormone systems.
Cordyceps is used in China as a support product for sexual function and as an
energy booster. It restores energy, acts as an anti-aging aid and promotes
longevity.
In clinical conditions Cordyceps has been shown to stimulate and restore the
function of compromised immune system in various conditions including chronic
fatigue, cancer and respiratory disorders, especially asthma. It has also been
demonstrated that Cordyceps enhances blood circulation and can lower LDL
cholesterol while raising beneficial HDL cholesterol.
This magnificent mushroom contains anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, as
well as regulates the kidney dysfunctions and liver disorders.
Cordyceps assists in building up stamina for better endurance and increases the
energy levels thus improving the performance.
In 1993 a team of Chinese women athletes achieved nine world records in the
World Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Germany. One of them broke
the record for the 10,000 meter-run by 42 seconds.
An astounding result !
Besides the intensive training, the large credit was given by the team to the use of
Cordyceps.
Chinese athletes use Cordyceps as a safe alternative to dangerous performance-
enhancing drugs.
After this event the world seriously focused the attention on the evaluation of the
pharmacological properties of this mushroom.
The powerful aphrodisiac properties of Cordyceps have elevated this mushroom to
one of the highest pedestals.
Scientific studies performed recently by Beijing Medical University of China and in
Japan have demonstrated a 64% success rate among men suffering from
impotence using Cordyceps in comparison with 24% of men taking other forms of
medication. It increases the sex drive.
Along with Reishi and Shiitake, Cordyceps is among the most beneficial of
mushrooms.
Energy booster – increases the number of red blood cells
(erythrocytes), which contain the pigment hemoglobin and
transports oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the tissues,
thus enhancing physical endurance and resistance;
Cardio-vascular tonic – enhances the performance of
cardiac muscle and improves the vasomotor function
(constriction and dilatation) by strengthening the blood
vessels therefore improving blood circulation;
Anti-hypertension effect – dilates (widens) coronary
artery thus increasing the blood flow; it is considered to
play a major role as a calcium antagonist in lowering
blood pressure and preventing angina pectoris and
myocardial infarct.
Anti-diabetes – increases the secretion of insulin;
Sex drive stimulant and Anti-impotence effect –
suppresses the phasic and tonic contraction of
corpus cavernosum penis; improves the general
sexual functions;
Stomach and intestinal function tonic – prevents the
formation of stress related stomach ulcer and improves
the function of digestive system;
Kidney tonic – prevents the toxic process in kidney,
stimulates nephro-detoxication;
Liver protection – prevents the formation of fibroid liver
tissues; reduces the ascites (accumulation of liquid in abdominal
area) caused by liver cirrhosis; normalizes the biochemical
status of the liver (GOT and GPT liver function tests);
Anti tumour effect – boosts the function of the depressed
immune system;
Anti oxidant properties – assists in delaying the aging
process by preventing the formation of peroxide lipids;
improves memory and concentration; prevents forgetfulness;
Diuretic properties – being a source of D-Mannitol, one
of the sugar alcohols that is known for a long time as a
usable osmotic diuretic agent; it can be effective in relieving
brain oedema (excess of watery fluid collected in the cavities
or tissues of the body), brain pressure accentuation and
ocular accentuation.
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is one of the most famous mushrooms in
oriental history and has been traditionally used as medicinal mushroom
in China and Japan for centuries.
Lion's Mane is also known as Monkey Head or Bear's Head thanks to the
beautifully cascading long white tendrils hanging down from the solid
rubber-like base. In China it is called Houtou, in Cantonese it is Hous Gu.
In Japan it is called Yamabushitake because of the resemblance to
the ornamental cloth worn by monks, Yamabushi. Its English
common name is Hedgehog Fungus.
Legend tells us that the ones that regularly consume this mushroom
would have the steel nerves and memory of a lion.
This magnificent mushroom grows off the recently fallen deciduous
broad-leaved trees, mostly oaks. Its white flesh is slightly ice-like
translucent and rubbery when touched. The base is strongly
attached to the tree trunk and it is difficult to remove it without
the use of a sharp knife.
Lion's Mane is not just an edible mushroom, it is regarded a culinary
delicacy and one of the four most famous Chinese dishes. The secret
is to pick the mushroom at the right time. When prepared the texture
reminds one of an octopus, squid or a lobster. It is delicious when
sty-fried with oyster sauce or chopped cold in a salad with sesame
oil and seaweed.
It has a rubbery texture if it is picked and cooked when too young;
if too old it develops an unpleasant sour taste. Exquisitely enjoyable
when prepared at the prime time.
The most outstanding and most valuable property of Lion's Mane is
its ability to stimulate the synthesis of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF)
and promote the process of myelination. Increased production
of NGF may enhance cognitive function and help to slow down the
onset of dementia, brain dysfunction associated with Alzheimer's
disease and various other neurological conditions. Nerve Growth
Factor (NGF) is effective in prevention of nervousness, forgetfulness
and early aging process.
Numerous studies confirm a number of traditionally known beneficial
properties of Lion's Mane in supporting and regulating the function of
the digestive system and its tonic effect on the nervous system.
Clinical trial tests reveal that Hericium Erinaceus polysaccharides-HEP
is effective as anti-tumour natural product by enhancing various
immune system functions rather than attacking the tumour cells directly.
Studies confirm many of Lion's Mane traditional uses, such as supporting
the function of cardiovascular system, lowering blood pressure and
serum cholesterol, strengthening the respiratory system, acting as
a digestive tonic when indigestion and constipation problems occur.
Nutritional Components:
Polysaccharide
Hericenones
Protein
Amino acid (especially Glutamic acid - 0.6422mg/g)
Bioactive Properties and Health Benefits:
Alzheimer's disease and various other neurological conditions
- stimulates the activity of the syntheses of Nerve Growth Factor
(NGF) which may enhance cognitive function and help to slow
down the onset of dementia, brain dysfunction associated
with Alzheimer's;
Anti-tumour effect - strengthens the immune system in fighting
the growth of tumour cells;
Cardio-vascular tonic - supports the function of cardiovascular
system, lowering blood pressure and serum cholesterol;
Digestive tonic - improves the function of the gastro-intestinal
system improving digestion and preventing constipation; effective
at treating stomach and duodenal ulcer as well as chronic
atrophic gastritis;
Nervous system tonic - strengthens nervous system to ensure
the stress and exhaustion endurance;
Immune system booster - speeds up the overall recovery after
illness or medical treatment;
Anti-aging effect - improves memory, prevents forgetfulness
and stimulates the brain function.
For over four thousand years Maitake mushrooms has been glorified in the
Orient as food that maintains good health, sustains strong spirit, preserves
youth and extends longevity.
Maitake is indigenous to the northeastern part of Japan though it is found
throughout the entire Eastern region as well as in Europe and North America.
It grows in clusters near the roots of plum, apricot and peach trees, but mostly
at the foot of big oak trees. Maitake mushroom has an unmistakable rippled
form with no usual mushroom cap but rather large overlapping folds.
The name "Maitake" literally means "dancing mushroom" so called because
people knowing well of its delicious taste and of the health benefits when
managed to find the mushroom in the deep mountains they began
dancing with happiness and delight. Another interpretation for the name
is that its beautifully shaped wavy petals reminds one of a butterfly
flapping it's wings. The common English name is "Hen of the Woods".
The scientific name "Grifola frondosa" comes from the common name
of Maitake found in Italy and myths refer to this mushroom as a half-lion
and half-eagle beast.
In remote areas Maitake can grow to enormous sizes weighing over
50 pounds (22 Kg). This is why this giant mushroom is called the
"King of Mushrooms".
For centuries Maitake was a rare and difficult mushroom to get.
In fact, in the feudal era of Japan this mushroom used to be exchanged
with the same weight of silver by local lords who in turn offered it to their
superiors, the Shoguns, that were of succession of Japanese hereditary
Commanders-in-Chief and virtual rulers before 1868.
Maitake is the only edible mushroom among all Monkey's Bench mushroom
family and it is considered a first rank edible mushroom. It undoubtedly
offers an exceptionally good taste, an excellent aroma and crisp texture
making it a delightful addition to the gourmet menu.
Maitake is largely used as a Chinese medicine called "Keisho".
The Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing scripture of herbal medicine states that it
has been frequently used for improving spleen and stomach ailments,
calming nerves and mind, and treating haemorrhoids.
Maitake is one of the most extensively researched mushrooms by various
Universities and Scientific Institutes and a very large number of scientific
articles have been published around the world about this amazing fungus.
An especially important ingredient found in the family of polyporaceae
or so called "Monkey's Bench" is a polysaccharide compound which exhibits
strong immune support activity. In the late 1980's some scientists found a
mushroom that exhibits much more potent properties than any of the
mushrooms previously studied and it was Maitake.
Maitake mushroom contains the active ingredient protein bound ß-glucan
complex. This unique active compound makes it very potent in
enhancing immune system by oral administration.
Of all medicinal mushrooms studied Maitake has the strongest anti-tumour
activity. Numerous scientists over and over again in medicinal articles
around the world have reported this most outstanding medicinal property.
The numerously conducted laboratory studies examining the tumour
growth-suppressing effect reveal a complete inhibition of the tumour.
One of the articles in the Journal of the Japanese Society for Food
Science and Technology as result of study of Maitake possessing
anti-tumour activity suggests that active polysaccharide fractions
can depress or reduce tumour growth by activating the
immune system as a biological response modifier (BRM).
The health benefits demonstrated by Maitake include immune system
support, normal blood pressure support, normal blood sugar level support
and normal cholesterol support.
Further laboratory studies and extensive clinical studies are under way
in collaboration with leading research institutes both in the
United States and in Japan.
Professor Harry G. Preuss, M.D. at Department of Medicine,
Georgetown University Medical Centre announced at the annual
meeting of ACN (American College of Nutrition) held in October 1998
in Albuquerque, New Mexico the results of their initial laboratory study
on few fractions extracted from Maitake mushrooms against
Cardiovascular Diseases. Prof. Preuss concluded as well the favourable
anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive effect.Prof. Preuss is a strong
believer and advocator of so-called "Syndrome X" which claims that
the chronic disorders that are common in the aging human such as
Hypertension, Diabetes, Obesity, Hyperlipidemia and Arteriosclerosis are all
associated, at least in part, with the disturbances in glucose/insulin
metabolism. He believes that the findings in his initial study indicate that
the Maitake fractions would favourably influence the glucose/insulin
system and prevent the onset of age-related chronic disorders.
In 1998 Maitake Products, Inc., Ridgefield Park, NJ, proudly announced
that the company has obtained its IND (Investigational New Drug
Application) from the FDA to conduct a Phase II pilot study on the
effect of Maitake Mushroom D-fraction Extract (D-fraction) on
advanced breast and prostate cancer patients. The researchers at
New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, in 2002 announced the results
of their study of comparing effects of various mushroom extract products
as well as ß-glucan products on the U.S. and Japanese market against
prostate cancer cells (PC-3; the most aggressive with metastasis cancer
cells) in vitro. Maitake has shown the most potent cytotoxic effect.
The unique protein-bound polysaccharide compound found in Maitake
based on 1,3 and 1,6 Beta glucans has been marketed as a dietary
supplement both in the USA and Japan since 1995 and has demonstrated
clinical effectiveness in enhancing immune system function particularly in
those patients with various forms of cancers, HIV/AIDS and
chronic fatigue syndrome.
Disturbing fact is that according to the survey done just in USA
approximately 181,000 new cases of breast cancer develop each
year and over 40,000 women die of it annually.
Prostate cancer is now the most frequently diagnosed malignancy
in the USA with over 120,000 new cases and 32,000 deaths occurring
annually (which is the second leading causes of male mortality due to cancer).
The statistics in other countries around the world are just as alarming!
Nutritional Components:
Protein - 22.25%
Amino acid - 23.58%
Rich in minerals such as Zn and Se
Polysaccharide (23 fractions)
Bioactive Properties and Health Benefits:
Anti-tumour effect - strengthens the immune system in fighting
the growth of tumour cells;
Immune system booster - stimulates the building of a strong
immune system to ensure the body endurance against the infections
and viral diseases;
Cardio-vascular tonic - supports the function of cardiovascular
system, lowers high blood pressure and regulates the cholesterol level;
Digestive tonic - improves the function of the gastro-intestinal
system;
Nervous system tonic -provides a calming effect and strengthens
the nervous system;
Diabetes monitor - regulates blood sugar level;
Obesity monitor - improves the metabolism thus assisting with
weight control;
Anti-aging effect - stimulates the overall vitality.
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) has been used for more than 4000 years in Traditional
Medicine in the entire Orient and it is believed to be the oldest mushroom used in medicine. It is known as the most highly praised ancient medicine and it is
undoubtedly one of the most respected medicinal mushrooms of modern times.
Reishi grows wild on decaying logs in Japan, China, Taiwan, Korea and the rest of
the costal regions of the Far East in densely wooded mountains with high humidity
and dim light. 99% of Reishi growing in the wild in Japan are found on old stumps
of plum trees. In ancient times people had to go high up on the mountains and
deep into the forests to harvest this most valuable medicine.
Wild Reishi Mushrooms are scarce. Out of 10,000 aged trees, perhaps 2 or 3 would
have Reishi grow. The spores of this fan shaped mushroom have such a tough
outer husks that makes the germination extremely difficult and this accounts for
its rarity. In the old days when one discovered Reishi, its location had to be kept
a secret even from one's closest relative as a precious possession.
The cultivating process is extremely hard making Reishi an expensive fungus.
Reishi has a large, tough and thick woody body with no gills but instead pores
that release their seeds (spores). All six varieties of this mushroom are in fact one
species that under different environmental conditions display the six colours in
full splendour - yellow (Kishiba), black (Kuroshiba), purple (Murasakishiba), blue
(Aoshiba), red (Akashiba) and white (Shiroshiba). Each has been classified in
the "Shinnoh Honshokyo" and in the catalogue of herbs written in the Ming
Dynasty (1368-1644 A.D.). The red variety is the most commonly used and
commercially cultivated.
The hard texture makes Reishi an inedible mushroom, but it is suitable as tea or
extract.
Part of the scientific word for Reishi is lucidum which means "shiny" or " glossy "
and refers to the cap's surface beautifully glazed effect.
Internationally this incredible mushroom is known by its Japanese name, Reishi.
The Chinese name Ling Zhi translates as the "Herb of Spiritual Potency" and was
highly prized as an "Elixir of Immortality" as it was believed to bring eternal youth
and longevity.
The 2200 years old scripture "The Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing" is considered today
the oldest book on oriental herbal medicine that offers the classification of 365
species of roots of grass, woods, furs, animals and stones in three categories.
The first category, called superior, includes herbs effective for multiple diseases
and mostly responsible for maintaining and restoring the body balance. They
have no unfavourable side effects. Reishi is ranked number one of the
superior medicines.
Reishi Mushroom is also known by the name Lucky Fungus. In the Taoist tradition,
Reishi is said to enhance spiritual receptivity and it was used by monks to calm
the spirit and mind. It is also considered a symbol of feminine sexuality as it
refines the beauty and complexion.
Reishi has been used in traditional oriental medicine for more than 4,000 years
to treat liver disorders, hypertension, fortify the bones and tendons, diminish the
nervous tension, treat the general fatigue and weakness, arthritis, deafness
and other ailments.
The numerous studies and observations prove that Reishi has multiple benefits
in a very wide range of diseases and symptoms, shows no side effects and
can be consumed in high dosages and in combination with
other medications.
Reishi mushroom has strong immune stimulating properties due to the fact
that it contains a high amount of polysaccharides that are essential for
proper functioning of the immune system.
Reishi is recommended as preventive measure rather than a cure and the
best solution to modern day symptoms and illnesses such as diabetes,
asthma, cancer, arthritis, arteriosclerosis, immune deficiency, fatigue,
high blood pressure, stomach and liver disorders, nervousness, stress,
insomnia and others.
Regular intake of Reishi will not only help to prevent the occurrence of
these ailments, but prevent one's body from degenerating too fast.
Reishi is indeed regarded as the solution to mankind's miseries.
Reishi has the ability to reduce the cholesterol level, normalize blood pressure,
regulate circulatory and respiratory systems. It has a strong antihistamine
action that can help control and cure allergies.
Mountain climbers to combat altitude sickness frequently use Reishi and it is
contained in many of the performance enhancing herbal formulas used
by Chinese athletes.
Reishi contains several major constituents, including steroids, coumarin,
mannitol, polysaccharides, triterpenoids called ganoderic acids etc.
Ganoderic acids may lower blood pressure as well as decrease cholesterol.
These specific triterpenoids also help reduce blood platelets from sticking
together which is an important factor in lowering the risk for coronary
artery disease. In numerous studies it is demonstrated that Reishi has effective
properties in serum cholesterol reduction and improving of blood circulation.
The analyses of blood samples taken from patients suffering from any form of
allergy have demonstrated a high concentration of allergen (antibody). Chronic
bronchitis, asthma, typical dermatitis, allergic maxillary, sinusitis, chronic hepatitis,
chronic nephritis etc. are the most difficult to treat. They are allergy-related one
way or another and are generally treated by cortisone, a substance that is
naturally produced in the body. The studies show that if this substance is
artificially introduced to the system continuously than the normal kidney
functions are jeopardised and the organ itself starts suffering.
LANOSTAN found in Reishi can suppress the over active allergen production.
With the build up of protein or fatty acids in the blood stream the level of
cholesterol rises up to 300 mg/dl (normal level is between 130 and 230 mg/dl
and the protein level showing over 1000 mg/dl (normal level being 230 -
500 mg/dl). In the cases of high level of cholesterol, the viscosity of blood
becomes thick and the heart muscle has to pump harder to transport blood
especially to the extremities. This increases the heart load and elevates the
blood pressure; it increases both the systolic and diastolic measures.
It slows down the function of circulatory system resulting in stiffness of the
joints and shoulders, insomnia, anxiety attacks, dizziness, fatigue and in no
time this can lead to arteriosclerosis which is linked to hypertension, stroke,
cardiac attacks, obesity, lung and liver diseases etc.
The improvement of blood circulation is imperative and anticoagulants are
prescribed. Reishi is a natural anticoagulant.
Clinical tests show that administering Reishi instead of insulin can reverse blood
sugar level back to normal after one year. Medical complications associated
with diabetes also disappear. This is due to the fact that in 1984, Dr. Komota of
Tokyo Medical & Dental University, Japan, isolated the substance GANODELAN A
and B from extracts of Reishi that are responsible for blood sugar maintenance.
Long-term use of this incredible mushroom has significant effect on diabetes.
It has been discovered that Reishi contains b-3-glucan-polysaccharide that is
a potent anti-cancer agent.
The Japanese Government states the following: THE JAPANESE MEDICAL FIELD
HAS CONFIRMED THAT REISHI HAS POSITIVE EFFICACY and officially lists REISHI
as a substance for treating cancer.
Patients suffering from the side effects of drugs such as antibiotics, hormonal
supplements etc often acquire other related illnesses. This problem is under
serious debate by the medical profession since 1965. The Royal Medical Society
of Russia, Australia and England developed a new medical concept of
ADAPTOGEN, a substance that is:
- non-toxic (has no harmful side-effects),
- not limited to special organs or tissues, and
- has overall normalizing effect.
Reishi, this amazing "Mushroom of Immortality", is fast becoming known as one of
the leading adaptogens used as a preventive medicine normalizing the body
functions with no side effects, boosting the bodies' defences and contributing
to overall vitality.
Reishi is best used in disease prevention measures. When in a healthy state, the
use of this miraculous mushroom will maintain the body's immunity system and
have the vitalizing effect. The continuous use of Reishi will help prevent
degeneration of your body, improve your health and attain longevity.
In Japan Reishi is a prescription drug, in China it is available over the counter
and in United States it is a well-known dietary supplement.
Nutritional Components:
Polysaccharides (Ganoderic acids A, B, C and D)
Triterpenoids
Lucidenic acid B
Danodermanontriol
Ergosteroids
Complete proteins
Coumarin
Mannitol
Lactones
Alkaloids
Steroids
Nucleotides
Bioactive Properties and Health Benefits:
Anti-tumour effect - boosts immune system, promotes interferon
inducing activity, stimulates the cancer cells apoptosis and cytotoxic
effect; reinforces the membrane of the cancerous cells to prevent
from spreading (metastasis);
Post chemotherapy recovery - reduces the side effects of the
chemotherapy and stimulates the joint benefits of other drugs;
inhibits thrombogenesis and Iyses thrombi on the wall of surrounding
cells tissue and removes blockade of cancer medication, thus increases
the effectiveness of these drugs;
Anti-allergy effect - suppresses the over active allergen
production, inhibits histamine release;
High cholesterol level - efficiently eliminates cholesterol in the
blood and the amount of free fat, reducing the cholesterol levels;
Cardio-vascular system - stabilizes blood pressures and
promotes blood circulation; has the ability to improve the diastolic
level which is by far most valuable property; increases the blood flow
of coronary artery; lowers the side effects of antihypertensive drugs;
Anti-aging effect - improves the skin tone, smoothens the skin
texture, contributes to the fading of skin pigmentation due to the
antioxidant properties; prevents tissue cell and organ degeneration;
prevents senility, maintaining a youthful constitution;
Anti-HIV activity - elevates the natural healing ability of the
body, allows the body to establish a strong immune system; has a
cytopathic effect, inhibits HIV-1 PR enzyme;
Liver protection - lowers the GOT and GPT levels, improves the
function of the liver at chronic hepatitis;
Thromboses prevention - inhibits platelet aggregation due to
the natural anticoagulant properties.
Shiitake (Lentinus edodes) represents a symbol of longevity in Asia and is
glorified as food and medicine for centuries.
Wild Shiitake exists since prehistoric times and it is native to Japan, China
and other Asian countries.
In the wild Shiitake grows on the trunks, stumps or fallen various hardwoods
-oak, chestnut, beech or the shii tree, from where this mushroom derives its
name ("take" means mushroom).
Shiitake have a distinctive look - light brown with amber effect and slight
trumpet-shaped caps that range in diameter from about two to four inches
and rest on tender white stems.
Shiitake is also known by the names Oak Mushroom, Oriental Black Mushroom
and Glossagyne.
This mysterious and unique in many aspects mushroom has been a gourmet
product for centuries. It has a delicious taste, exotic flavour and meaty
texture making it a fabulous addition to almost any dish.
Besides its taste, Shiitake is highly nutritious. It is regarded as one of the most
popular sources of protein in Japan and a major staple in China and the rest
of Asia. As a food source, Shiitake has the combined attributes of being
appetizing, nourishing, dietetic and healthful. It has adequate nutritional
benefits to serve as a main dish and it complements well the various recipes
as meat substitute.
Shiitake contains all eight essential amino acids in better proportions than the
ones found in soy beans, meat, milk, or eggs as well as a good blend of vitamins
and minerals including vitamins A, B, B12, C, D and Niacin, elevating it to the
pedestal of functional food. Shiitake produces a fat-absorbing compound that
assists in weight loss. It has become the second popular mushrooms in the world.
Shiitake is the most widely cultivated and one of the most thoroughly
researched and documented medicinal mushrooms.
The famous physician from the Chinese Ming Dynasty (A.D. 1368-1644), Wu Ri,
wrote extensively about this mushroom, noting its ability to increase energy,
cure colds, and eliminate worms. It is regarded as medicinal mushroom
possessing powers of boosting "QI" within the body's blood circulation. The
vast research of Shiitake's medicinal properties has been completed and it
shows its ability to fight tumour, viral infections and enhance the immune
system. Its beneficial effects have been reported in the Cochran's review of
medicinal mushrooms, "Medical Effects" (Biology and Cultivation of Edible
Mushrooms, Academic Press, 1978).
In the late 1960's a Japanese researcher by the name of T. Ikekawa together
with his colleague after an intense study produced evidence related to a
component of the Shiitake that demonstrated a 94.8% rate of tumour
inhibition at a 200 day dose. Interestingly, the alkaline-eluted
component gave only a 62.5% tumour inhibition rate at the same dosage.
Primary chemical constituents of Shiitake include Polysaccharide (lentinan),
eritadenin, proteins, largely unsaturated fatty acids, minerals and vitamins D,
B-2, B-12.
Lentinan, the highly purified polysaccharide fraction extracted from Shiitake,
is an approved drug in Japan and has been used as an agent to prolong
survival of patients in conventional cancer therapy as well as in AIDS research.
Lentinan is commercially available for clinical use. In Japan mushroom extracts
have become the leading prescription treatment for cancer.
Lentinan is not only effective for cancer treatment, but may also prevent the
increase of chromosomal damage induced by anti-cancer drugs with no known
side effects. In the scientific articles Chihara stipulates: "The leading principles of
the function of lentinan resides in the fact that it can cure patients by restoring
their homeostasis and through enhancement of their intrinsic resistance against
diseases."
There are also documented cases of greatly reduced side effects from radiation
and chemotherapy in patients who took medicinal mushrooms at the same time.
In the clinical cases when lentinan was given as part of treatment to patients
with gastric cancer, reticular fibres developed in tumour sites. Reticular cells,
which are spread throughout the body in various tissues, are immune cells that
have the ability to ingest (phagocytes) bacteria. When lentinan was
administered, not only was there a proliferation of reticular cells in gastric
tumour sites, but also many T- lymphocytes (another type of immune defender)
were drawn to these cancer sites with the result that the cancer cell nests were
fragmented and destroyed.
This highly prized mushroom is recommended for any disease involving depressed
immune function such as cancer, AIDS, environmental allergies, yeast infections,
frequent flu and colds.
The antiviral effects demonstrated by Shiitake are caused by its ability to
stimulate the production of interferon.
Researchers have reported that consumption of Shiitake mushrooms lowers
blood cholesterol levels by as much as 45 percent. The most dramatic results
occurred when high-cholesterol foods were eaten simultaneously with Shiitake.
The ability of Shiitake to accelerate the metabolism and excretion of cholesterol
was first reported in 1966 by Kaneda and Tokuda. The active principle is an
amino acid named eritadenine that lowers all lipid components of serum
lipoproteins. It exhibits very low toxicity and is effective when administered
orally. One hundred twenty-four derivatives of eritadenine have been
synthesized and tested; numerous patents have been issued for consumable
products capitalizing on shiitake's ability to reduce the cholesterol level.
Lowering plasma lipids by a method as simple as consuming a natural product
is very appealing to any health conscious person.
Shiitake proves to be a truly heart smart food for the future.
Nutritional Components:
Amino acids (Arginine, Leucine, Lysine, Phenylalanine, Valine)
Minerals (Fe, Zn, Mn, K, P, N etc)
Protein
Fibres
Vitamin B, B12, D
Beta-glucan
Heteroglucan
Polyacelylene
Guanosine 5' -monophosphate
Adenine derivative
Bioactive Properties and Health Benefits:
Anti-tumour properties - stimulates the function of immune
depressed system; prevents the increase of chromosomal damage
induced by anti-cancer drugs; reduced side effects from radiation
and chemotherapy;
Anti-HIV properties - stimulates the production of interferon;
provides synergistic (combined and improved) effect with
azidothymidine (AZT);
High cholesterol - accelerates the metabolism and the
excretion of eaten cholesterol;
Liver protection - strengthens the function of the liver;
provides the detoxification of the liver;
Weight loss effect - produces a fat-absorbing compound
that assists in weight control.
Energy booster – increases the number of red blood cells 
Alzheimer's disease and various other neurological conditions 
Anti-tumour effect - strengthens the immune system in fighting 
Anti-tumour effect - boosts immune system, promotes interferon 
Anti-tumour properties - stimulates the function of immune