Maitake Mushroom Fruit Extract
Also known as: Maitake, Sheep’s head, Ram's head, Hen of the woods, Signorina, Grifola frondosa
Overview
Maitake mushroom, scientifically known as *Grifola frondosa*, is a medicinal fungus found primarily in Japan, China, and North America. Valued for its culinary and health-promoting properties, this mushroom possesses potential immunomodulatory and anti-tumor effects, predominantly attributed to its bioactive component, D-fraction, a proteoglucan complex. While traditional use spans centuries, scientific investigations are mostly limited to preclinical and small-scale clinical trials, yielding low-quality evidence. Thus, while maitake has garnered attention for its proposed health benefits, further rigorous and large-scale studies are required to substantiate these claims.
Benefits
The primary benefit attributed to maitake is its ability to enhance immune function, particularly through increased activity of T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, which may help inhibit cancer progression. Some studies suggest it can alleviate chemotherapy side effects and enhance quality of life for cancer patients. Special populations, like postmenopausal women with a history of breast cancer, might see immune modulation effects, although the clinical significance remains ambiguous. Effect sizes have been described as generally small and inconsistently significant, with variability in outcomes across studies complicating the understanding of the time course for potential benefits.
How it works
Maitake's D-fraction is known to modulate the immune system by amplifying T cell activation and cytokine production, particularly interleukins such as IL-2 and IL-12. This action influences various immune pathways, potentially promoting apoptosis and autophagy in cancer cells. While specific data on absorption and bioavailability are limited, its effectiveness through the modulation of immune response underscores its significance in complementary health approaches.
Side effects
Generally considered safe, maitake may still present some adverse effects, particularly nausea and joint pain at lower doses and allergic reactions at higher doses. Documented side effects are uncommon and rarely severe. Caution is warranted for individuals on immunosuppressive treatments due to possible interaction. Contraindications include patients with cancer or compromised immune systems, alongside pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, who should seek medical guidance due to insufficient safety data. Regular monitoring for side effects is advised, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Dosage
The optimal dosage for maitake mushroom extracts is not firmly established, but intermediate doses between 5 to 7 mg/kg per day are commonly suggested based on limited evidence, with maximum doses potentially reaching 10 mg/kg per day, beyond which adverse effects may increase. There are currently no recommendations regarding specific timing for intake or dosage adjustments for variations in absorption, and the effective dose may depend on the formulation used, such as the D-fraction.
FAQs
Is maitake safe to use for cancer patients?
While generally safe, individuals with cancer should use maitake under medical supervision to monitor for potential interactions and side effects.
Can I take maitake with other medications?
Caution is recommended as maitake may interact with immunosuppressive drugs; consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.
What results can I expect from using maitake?
Expected benefits vary widely, as clinical evidence is inconsistent; maitake is not a proven cure for cancer.
How should maitake be administered?
There are no specific timing recommendations; it is suggested that usage aligns with medical advice for best outcomes.
Is there a risk of side effects?
Possible side effects include nausea and joint pain at lower doses, with allergic reactions at higher doses; monitoring is essential.
Research Sources
- https://examine.com/supplements/maitake/ – This source provides an overview of the effects and purported benefits of Maitake mushroom, highlighting available evidence and dosage considerations. It outlines the mechanisms of action and indicates the need for further research.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19476741/ – The study focuses on the impact of Maitake mushroom on immune response, reporting increased cytokine production in postmenopausal breast cancer survivors, albeit with limitations such as small sample size.
- https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/mycomedicinals-mushrooms-for-cancer.asp – This article discusses various medicinal mushrooms, including maitake, and their proposed benefits for cancer therapies, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance when integrating them into treatment regimens.
- https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/maitake-mushroom – Healthline's article covers the nutritional aspects, health benefits, and potential drawbacks of maitake mushrooms, providing a balanced view on their usage and safety.
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/26248013_Maitake_mushroom_Grifola_frondosa_Systematic_review_by_the_natural_standard_research_collaboration – This systematic review discusses the efficacy and safety of Maitake mushroom, highlighting gaps in high-quality research and calling for more comprehensive clinical studies to establish clearer conclusions.
Supplements Containing Maitake Mushroom Fruit Extract

Mushroom Complex
Purely Optimal

Mushroom 10x
We Like Vitamins

SHROOM
Primal Pharm

Mushroom Max
InfoWars M.D

Happy Brain Mushroom Complex
hellohealth

10 Shrooms
Oweli

Shroom
High Level

Mushroom Complex
Natural Cell Supplements

20 Veggies & Mushrooms
PureMax Labs YummyVite

Mushroom 10X Complex
Aceworkz

Elite 10 Mushroom Blend
SMNutrition

Mega Mushroom
Procera
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