What exactly is the maitake mushroom?
In Japanese, "maitake" means "dancing mushroom." Because of its incredible healing properties, the mushroom is said to have gotten its name after people danced with joy after discovering it in the wild.
This mushroom is an adaptogen. Adaptogens help the body fight any type of mental or physical challenge. They also work to restore balance to the body's systems that have become out of balance. While this mushroom can be used in recipes for flavour alone, it is also a medicinal mushroom.
In parts of Japan, China, and North America, the mushroom grows wild. It can be found at the base of Oak, Elm, and Maple trees. It can be cultivated and even grown at home, though not as well as it does in the wild. The mushroom is usually found in the autumn months.
Although the maitake mushroom has been used for thousands of years in Japan and China, it has only recently gained popularity in the United States. People are praising this mushroom for its health, vitality, and longevity benefits.
What are the health benefits of maitake mushrooms?
In comparison to other mushrooms, maitake has demonstrated superior results in the prevention and treatment of cancer and other health conditions. Maitake is also beneficial to overall immunity.
Maitake mushrooms are high in:
- antioxidants
- beta-glucans
- B and C vitamins
- copper
- potassium
- fibre
- minerals
- amino acids
The mushrooms are also fat-free, low-sodium, low-calorie, and cholesterol-free.
Scientists are currently researching the mushroom's unique ability to promote overall health and fight illness.
Treating Disease
According to the research Maitake may be effective in treating certain illnesses, according to laboratory research. More research is needed to confirm its effect on humans, but the preliminary findings are encouraging.
Cancer
According to a 2013 study, maitake D-Fraction may be useful in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. According to researchers, this mushroom can inhibit the growth and reproduction of cancerous cells.
The maitake mushroom has been shown to inhibit tumour growth in mice. It can also boost the number of cells fighting the tumour. This suggests that when taken orally, it may also be effective in the treatment of cancer in humans.
An earlier study discovered that maitake D-Fraction, an extract, was effective in killing human cancer cells. It was taken in conjunction with another protein that fights cancer and was successful in increasing the protein's effectiveness.
More information: The heart hubby fibre, beta glucan
Cholesterol
In a 2013 study, researchers discovered that maitake powdered extract reduced cholesterol levels in mice. It has also been shown to increase the amounts of fatty acids that provide energy. As a result, researchers hypothesised that eating maitake mushrooms could help keep arteries healthy.
Diabetes Type 2
According to the findings of a 2015 study, maitake mushroom can help rats with type 2 diabetes. Maitake mushroom consumption had a positive effect on rats' glucose levels during the study. This suggests that the mushroom could be used to treat type 2 diabetes in humans.
Maitake mushroom may also be beneficial in the treatment of:
- cold and flu viruses
- high or low blood pressure
- immune function
- chemotherapy side effects.
How to Include Maitake Mushroom in Your Diet
If you're using maitake to improve your health, you can add it to any food that normally contains mushrooms. It goes well with stir-fry, salad, pasta, pizza, omelettes, and soup. You can also grill or fry the mushrooms in butter. Maitake has a strong, earthy flavour, so make sure you enjoy it before using it in large quantities.
If you buy fresh maitake, buy it whole to extend its shelf life. Keep it in the refrigerator in a paper bag. You might be able to find it dried in some supermarkets. If you can find it fresh, it freezes well and can be kept on hand. It can also be frozen raw.
Maitake can also be taken as a liquid concentrate or in capsule form. If you want to take it as a supplement, look for maitake D-Fraction, which is a mushroom extract.
The appropriate dosage is determined by your age, weight, and overall health. It is also dependent on the actual strength of the supplement. Before using, carefully read the instructions.
Always consult your doctor before taking a high dose, and carefully monitor your reactions. If you notice any unusual symptoms or discomfort, stop using the product and consult your doctor.
It may take several weeks or months for you to notice a difference. It is said to be more beneficial when combined with vitamin C.
Consider the following risk factors:
As long as the mushroom is not too old, maitake is digestible. The toughness of the mushroom can make it difficult to digest as it ages. Cooking the mushroom can help it digest better.
Although allergic reactions and stomach upset are uncommon, they are possible. Maitake mushroom is generally well tolerated.
If you have diabetes, consult your doctor before consuming. Maitake may affect your blood sugar levels. It may also lower your blood pressure, so talk to your doctor about your options if you have hypotension.
If you are about to have surgery or have a bleeding disorder, you should avoid eating maitake mushrooms for two weeks.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have an autoimmune disease, consult your doctor before using this product.
In conclusion
Maitake has tremendous healing potential. There are no guarantees, but the prospects look promising. If you want to add this to your diet or take it as a supplement, consult your doctor first. They can go over the potential risks and benefits with you and help you decide which option is best for you.
In general, look for 100 percent extract with no fillers. It's critical to understand exactly what you're getting; do your homework and only buy from a company that provides you with adequate product information; use it with caution if you have diabetes or high blood pressure; check in with your doctor for approval or direction.
Finally, keep in mind that maitake can affect people in a variety of ways.
