There are several mushrooms that are fairly well known. In particular, the Shiitake mushroom, listed in the Guinness Book of Records, because a huge number of articles and publications have been written about this mushroom about studies of its healing properties. The Japanese tree mushroom Maitake, of course, does not have such popularity and is somewhat more modest in terms of healing and therapeutic properties, but however, among other Japanese mushrooms, Maitake is equally popular.
Four amazing properties of Maitake (Meitake) for which the Japanese have valued it for centuries:
The first is the ability to reduce weight (which allowed it to be called the "Japanese geisha mushroom");
The second is the ability to reduce the discomfort and problems associated with menopause in women (Japanese doctor Kasuko Isuze claims that when taking the Maitake mushroom during menopause, it helps to relieve women of frequent hot flashes, sweating, excessive irritability and heart palpitations) it also removes cholesterol from the body ;
Third - the ability to gently eliminate the unpleasant sensations of premenstrual syndrome, such as irritability, pulling pains in the lower abdomen, weakness, fatigue and headaches;
Fourth - the ability to increase immunity (due to the group "B" polysaccharides present in the composition of the mushroom).
Maitake (Meitake) - King of mushrooms
Maitake (Meitake) properties application benefits
In the forests of Japan and in parts of northern China, the Maitake mushroom grows. Usually it is harvested in September, October. Most often, this mushroom grows near the roots of large trees. The fungus, penetrating into the structure of the tree, destroys lignins, which processes cellulose. And often the tree gets sick with a disease, it is also called "white rot". Maitake tastes very good and has an unusual aroma. This wonderful mushroom is one of the most valuable medicinal mushrooms in Japan. Its name in Latin - Grifola frondosa - comes from a mushroom that was found in Italy.
The Maitake (Meitake) mushroom in China is called "Zhu-ling" or "Keisho". It is used to calm the nerves, treat stomach ailments, and treat hemorrhoids.
Maitake has a healing effect on problems such as diabetes, obesity, chronic hepatitis, hypertension and chronic fatigue syndrome. It also helps the body to cope with stress.
Scientists have experimentally found that it is most effective when taken together with other mushrooms such as Shiitake. The efforts of scientists, pharmacologists and mycologists were not in vain. In addition to the pronounced antitumor effect, its other healing properties were also discovered. In particular, it is indispensable for diseases such as atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, hepatitis B and C, arterial hypertension.
And in 1992, the American National Cancer Institute confirmed the high antiviral activity of the Maitake mushroom. And due to the normalization of hormonal and metabolic processes, the mushroom helps to reduce weight, and therefore the drug from Maitake became part of the famous Japanese weight loss system "Yamakiro". And this system is used with great success by women of all ages.
The therapeutic effect of the Maitake mushroom (Meitake) is mainly due to the fact that it contains a large amount of valuable polysaccharides: beta-1,6-glycans. Experiments have established that thanks to these substances, cancer cells stop their growth, and there is no way to form new tumors. They also destroy the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by stimulating the activity of the body's defense cells such as T-lymphocytes and CD4 cells.
In addition, studies have shown that Maitake contains 2 of the most important polysaccharides:
- D-fraction, from Maitake mushrooms, consisting of B-1,3 glycans linked to B-1.6 glycosides or B-1,6-linked glycans with B-1.3 branches of glycosides and has a molecular weight of about -1 x 106 daltons. It is the D-fraction of the Maitake mushroom that has a pronounced antitumor effect. Due to this, the production of interleukin increases in the body, due to which the cytotoxic activity of macrophage cells increases. As a result of the research, it was found that the D-fraction has a mediocre effect on the tumor by activating immune defenders (macrophages, natural killer cells, CTLs and others), and they, in turn, will actively suppress various tumor cells by potentiating lymphokine cells.
- The X-fraction steadily normalizes blood sugar levels, balances the sensitivity of pancreatic cells to insulin production, which is very important in the treatment of diabetes.
After numerous studies and experiments in Maitake, scientists have identified 4 mechanisms that help the body resist cancer.
1. Comprehensive protection of healthy cells
2. Prevention of cancer metastasis
3. Slowing down or stopping the growth of tumors
4. Reduces side effects of chemotherapy and enhances its effect.
Maitake and the fight against oncology.
Maitake (Meitake) mushroom treatment
Studies have shown the antimetastatic effect of the Maitake mushroom. After taking the drug based on the mushroom extract, it was found that the cancer cells were destroyed by the cells of the patient's immune system. The mechanism of action is aimed at inhibiting the development of primarily the circulatory system in the tumor, which in turn stops the supply of nutrition and oxygen to the cell, in addition, Maitake, like other medicinal mushrooms, secretes Tumor Necrosis Factor - alpha (TNF-a), and this leads to its drying out, regression.
Cancer cell apoptosis.
Apoptosis is programmed cell death. Substances contained in the Maitake mushroom change the genetic code of cancer cells, which leads to apoptosis with the subsequent destruction of cancer cells. And it is very important to note that neighboring healthy cells remain intact, in contrast to the use of chemotherapy.
100% water-soluble extract of the Maitake mushroom, together with the intake of vitamin C, is well absorbed and it significantly enhances the effect of the antitumor Beta-Glucan of the mushroom.
Benign tumors.
Polyps, papillomas, cysts, fibroids, adenomas and other benign tumors are also treated with Maitake mushroom extract, and the mechanism of action is exactly the same as in the treatment of malignant tumors.
Disorders of the endocrine system, functions of the thyroid gland and adrenal glands, severe menopause, mastopathy and ovarian dysfunction, in pathologies, the extract has a regulating and normalizing effect and saturates the body with positive energy.
Diabetes and Maitake.
The main substances that are capable of restoring the insulin receptors of cells in the Maitake mushroom are phospholipids, which control blood sugar levels and protect blood vessels from "bad cholesterol". Sugar levels in the blood and urine are reduced to normal. Maitake helps ensure the processing of carbohydrates and balance the insulin sensitivity of cells in the body. These studies were confirmed back in 1994.
Maitake and Hypertension.
B-1,6-1,3-D glucan was found in the Maitake mushroom (Meitake), which affects the reduction of blood plasma cholesterol levels. In addition, it is able to bind low-density lipoproteins, which contain a large amount of cholesterol, It is cholesterol that penetrates into the vessel wall is oxidized and has a damaging effect on the vessel with its inflammation and further sclerosis, as a result of which atherosclerotic plaques are formed.
As a result of clinical studies and experiments, it was clearly established that Maitake extract reduces high blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
Maitake and the fight against Hepatitis.
The antiviral effect of the Maitake mushroom extract is widely used in the treatment of hepatitis B and C and protects the liver from a large number of viruses, many of which simply die. The extract allows you to normalize the production of enzymes by the liver and eliminates inflammation of the liver tissue. And the normalization of elevated levels of transaminase, bilirubin and bile acid synthesis occurs due to Glucans. Maitake joins the fight against cirrhosis. It is also effectively used in the complex therapy of viral hepatitis.
Maitake and Infectious Diseases.
Maitake is used for viral and infectious diseases:
- hepatitis, smallpox, chickenpox, influenza, respiratory infections, poliomyelitis, shingles, herpes, ebola haemorrhagic fever and HIV;
- bacterial diseases such as listeriosis, coccal flora, tuberculosis, mycoplasmosis, escherichiosis and others;
- fungal infections (candidiasis, etc.);
- diseases caused by protozoa are malaria, protozoal infections, etc.
Maitake Research
Maitake (Meitake) properties application benefits
It has been proven that the Maitake mushroom protects healthy cells from malignancy, that is, the transformation of normal cells into cancerous ones. The experiment with mice showed amazing results. Twenty mice were injected with the potent carcinogen 3-MCA (methylcholanthrene). After administration of Maitake with D-fraction to one group of 10 mice, the following results appeared. Thirty days later, only 30.7% of those who took Maitake had cancer, and 93.2% of those who did not take Maitake. The first group continued to take Maitake, after which there was a complete stop of tumor growth and subsequent death of the cancer cell. In another experiment, after treating them with a carcinogen, the mice were first diagnosed with bladder cancer, after which they were given drugs from Shiitake and Maitake. As a result, the number of tumors decreased in the following proportion: Maitake showed 46.7%, and Shiitake - 52.9% regressing tumors.
Maitake (Meitake) properties application benefits
Maitake (Grifola frondosa)
Maitake is popularly known as the "dancing" mushroom or curly griffin. It is a large mushroom, reaching 50 cm in diameter at the base, and its clusters can weigh about 4 kg. Maitake looks like morels or tree growths.
History and application
The history of the use of maitake mushrooms dates back to the 4th-5th centuries AD. In Japan and China, they were used as a remedy for weakened immune systems. They grow wild in the forests of Japan and parts of China.
According to legend, the mushroom was called "dancing", because before picking it, it was necessary to perform a ritual dance, otherwise it would lose its healing properties. According to other sources, in the era of feudalism, when poor people managed to find this mushroom, they danced with joy. In Japan, maitake was called the "geisha mushroom" or "slimness mushroom" because they helped women maintain a slim figure.
In many countries, this mushroom gained popularity as a medicinal one, but thanks to its original taste, it began to be used in cooking. Maitake is now common in the northeastern part of Japan, and they are also grown in China on special fruit tree plantations. Maitake is considered one of the most valuable and expensive mushrooms in the world. (On the territory of Russia, curly griffin is on the verge of extinction and is listed in the Red Book of Russia.)
Interesting Facts
Scientists have found that maitake mushrooms destroy the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Application
Basically, maitake is included in the diet of people suffering from cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and obesity. It is also used as a preventive measure to strengthen the immune system.
Maitake has a distinct aroma and is very tasty. It is traditionally consumed with other oriental mushrooms. Maitake is used to prepare soups, sauces, spices, fresh salads, drinks, extracts. In Japanese cuisine, maitake is an essential ingredient in miso soup. This soup is cooked for no more than 20 minutes. It is important to add mushrooms at the very end of cooking so that they do not boil over; keeping them on fire for more than 5-8 minutes is not recommended. If the maitake is dried, then it is easy to restore them in water over low heat. The water in which the maitake was reconstituted can be used for soups, sauces, broths.
In Korea, maitake is steamed or simply fried. These mushrooms are fried for no more than 20 minutes, all the ingredients are added immediately and simmered under the lid, after which fresh herbs are added. Boiled mushrooms are added to.
Maitake can be both a main dish and a side dish for fried or stewed potatoes, hodgepodge.
Composition and properties
Maitake mushrooms reduce the incidence of infectious diseases, prevent cardiovascular diseases, and reduce the effects of chemotherapy (hair loss, pain and nausea).
Maitake extract regulates blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels, blocks tumors, protects against hepatitis. Maitake mushrooms are recommended for cancer, thyroid and adrenal dysfunction.
Calorie content of maitake
Calorie content of maitake - 34 kcal.
MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS MAITAKE
Maitake - "rising star" of mycology, a mushroom, the medicinal properties of which have been actively studied relatively recently - only thirty years!
The Latin name for maitake is "Grifola frondosa" (Curly griffin)comes from the name of a mushroom found in Italy. This name refers to the mythical animal griffin - which is half lion and half eagle.
The Japanese name "maitake" is associated with its shape, which resembles a dancing butterfly. The origin of the name maitake is "dancing mushroom" (may-dance, take - mushroom) still causes debate, but according to one of the versions, people who were lucky enough to find this mushroom danced with joy, since in the feudal era this mushroom was given its weight in silver, and according to another - before plucking this mushroom, it was necessary to perform a certain ritual dance, otherwise the mushroom would lose its properties. Sometimes the mushroom is called more mundane - "chicken tail", for a certain similarity. Maitake sometimes reaches gigantic sizes - over 50 cm in diameter and up to 4 kg in weight. Therefore, it is not surprising that maitake is one of the most valuable and expensive mushrooms in Asia.
Maitake is common in the northeastern regions of Japan and China. For hundreds of years, this rare and delicious mushroom has been prized in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. The author of books on medicinal mushrooms Kenneth Jones writes that "Maitake hunters jealously guarded their gathering areas. These collectors walked one by one and hid their findings. The mushroom store, with more than 10 kilograms of mushroom, was considered a true" treasure island "and its location was even hidden. from the family. The Maitake hunter could take his location secret to his grave or whisper to his son before dying. " Indeed, Maitake was harvested exclusively in the wild until the mid-1980s.
Professor Takashi Misano, one of Japan's leading experts on medicinal mushrooms, notes that some of the earliest references to Maitaka as a Chinese medicinal substance are found in the archives of the Han Dynasty (206 BC). In a 1995 article, Professor Misano said that Maitake was used to "improve spleen function, relieve abdominal pain, treat hemorrhoids, and provide a sense of calm."
In recent years, Maitake has become the most widely researched of all medicinal mushrooms, judging by many publications of research published by scientists and doctors at various institutes and universities, including Georgetown University Medical School (where the research is conducted by Dr.Preuss) and New York College of Medicine ( where is the doctor Konno, author of a book about Maitake, conducts his research). Further laboratory and extensive clinical research is under way in collaboration with research institutes in the United States, Canada, China, and Japan.
Raw materials
The mushroom is grown in China on special plantations in special climatic conditions. The collected mushrooms are used to obtain a purified extract according to the 10: 1 standard, where 1 kg of extract is obtained from 10 kg of dry mushrooms. The mushroom is extracted under the conditions of pharmaceutical production according to the international GMP standard.
What diseases can Maitake be used for?
1.Oncology (treatment of malignant tumors)
It is known that the daily use of Maitake extract by healthy people strengthens their immune system and significantly reduces the risk of cancer due to its defense mechanisms that help reduce the effect of carcinogens and the threat of tumor formation, but often the fungus is the only salvation when all other remedies are ineffective.
The complex of active substances contained in the Maitake extract allows you to use various mechanisms of action on malignant tumors: activation of antitumor immune function, inhibition of angiogenesis (vascular development) of a tumor and apoptosis (destruction) of cancer cells.
The mechanism of action see below
2 benign tumors
Maitake extract shows serious activity in the treatment of benign neoplasms: polyps, adenomas, fibroadenomas, papillomas, fibroids, etc. In this case, the mechanism of action is similar to that in the treatment of malignant tumors.
3. Correction of the hormonal background of the body
Maitake extract is widely used for various endocrine disorders in the body - for pathologies of the endocrine glands (hypo- and hyperfunctions). At the same time, it has a regulating and normalizing effect, which determines its purpose in these diseases.
Diabetes mellitus, dysfunction of the thyroid and adrenal glands, pituitary dysfunction, severe menopause and ovarian dysfunction - this is an incomplete list of diseases in which maitake is highly active.
4. Hypertension and high cholesterol.
Researchers studying the effects of Maitake on increasing blood pressure and blood plasma cholesterol levels have found that these serious processes are affected by-1.6-1.3-D glucan.
Glucan is able to bind low-density lipoproteins (containing a large amount of cholesterol), which, when they penetrate the vessel wall, are oxidized and have a damaging effect with inflammation and subsequent hardening of the vessel and the formation of atherosclerotic plaque.
Glucan-bound cholesterol is excreted from the body, which leads to a decrease in its level. As a result, lipid metabolism changes, the accumulation of fats in the liver and tissues stops, and their amount in the blood plasma decreases.
As a result of experiments, and then clinical studies, it was reliably established that Maitake extract reduces high blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
5. Correction of disorders of carbohydrate metabolism
Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus or type II diabetes mellitus is associated with a decrease in the sensitivity of specific tissue receptors to insulin or a decrease in the sensitivity of pancreatic islet cells to a glucose stimulus.
Insulin that does not bind to a cellular receptor in the liver and muscles does not "open the door" to the cell for glucose, as a result of which it is not absorbed by the cell and remains in the blood. However, insulin-forming cells and the tissue of the islets of the pancreas itself are not changed in type II diabetes mellitus, insulin secretion in response to a glucose stimulus, although often slow, does not change in total, and the hormone content in the blood usually corresponds to the upper limit of the norm (sometimes it is slightly lower or above normal).
In this type of diabetes, patients compensate for the course of the disease with a strict diet and drugs that improve the absorption of glucose by tissues. But many drugs have serious side effects - impaired renal function, cardiogenic or septic shock, and even liver failure. Are there any alternative methods to help overcome tissue insulin resistance safely.
Evidence that Maitake improves the body's insulin / glucose sensitivity dates back to 1994. Then, substances with antidiabetic activity were found in the fruit body of Maitake. When one gram of Maitake fruiting body powder was given daily to diabetic mice, there was a decrease in blood glucose levels in contrast to the control group.
It was later found that phospholipids and other fractions of the Maitake fruiting body are capable of restoring the insulin receptors of cells in a safe form.
The use of Maitake extract not only improves the metabolism of insulin and glucose, but also reduces the risk of developing rather formidable vascular complications - atherosclerosis, high blood cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.
6. Infectious diseases
Viral diseases (hepatitis, smallpox, respiratory infections, chickenpox, influenza, shingles, herpes, polio, rabies, ebola haemorrhagic fever and HIV).
Bacterial diseases (coccal flora, tuberculosis, listeriosis, klebsiella, mycoplasmosis, isherichiosis and others)
Fungal lesions (candidiasis, etc.)
Diseases caused by protozoa - protozoal infections (leishmaniasis, malaria and others)
7. Diffuse liver disease
Due to its antiviral properties, Maitake extract is widely used in the treatment of viral hepatitis B and C. As a result of the activation of antiviral immunity, the bulk of the viruses die. In the future, work is underway to normalize the production of enzymes by the liver and eliminate inflammation of the liver tissue. Maitake glucans restore elevated levels of transaminases, bilirubin and normalize the synthesis of bile acids. When working with Maitake, the emphasis is also on preventing liver hardening and stopping cirrhosis.
Having in its arsenal a large number of active active substances, Maitake is used in the complex therapy of such formidable viral hepatitis.
8. Weight control
In the course of large-scale studies of the effects of Maitake extract on the human body, an interesting pattern was revealed: in people with excess weight, a gradual weight loss was observed, but in patients with normal or reduced weight, such a decrease was not observed.
The mechanisms of this action are as follows: since Maitake substances have a regulatory effect on the level of hormones in the body, the subsequent normalization of the endocrine system leads to weight loss. In addition, it is believed that Maitake glucans can destroy the so-called. "Adipocytes" - fat cells, if their number is greater than normal.
As a result of such discoveries, Maitake is included in various systems to reduce excess weight.
What is the mechanism of action of Maitake extract?
Introduction:
Cellular immunity
Reticuloendothelial system is a physiological defense system of cells that have the ability to absorb and digest foreign material.
Macrophages are the cells of this system, they are found virtually everywhere in the body, including the brain, lungs, lymphatic system, liver (where they are called Kupffer's cells) and skin (where they are known as Langerhars cells). They serve many important functions for host tissues.
Macrophages ingest foreign cells, particles and pathogenic bacteria, release intracellular hormones called cytokines that aid the interaction of B and T lymphocytes, and they transport a wide range of pathogens, after neutralizing them, to the lymphatic system for removal to help cleanse tissues.
As guardians of the disease, macrophages supply processed foreign antigen proteins to T-lymphocytes, allowing the immune response to increase.
The powerful macrophage is your body's first line of defense against disease. Macrophages are part of our immunity. This means that they are effective against many different types of health threats, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even malignant cells.
A macrophage is known to contain approximately 100 different substances:
Cytokines are substances that organize the immune response;
A wide range of inflammatory mediators that play a central role in acute and chronic inflammation;
Growth factors to stimulate tissue repair after injury.
A polysaccharide was found in Maitaka --glucan... It is a long molecule with a high molecular weight, which has its own unique spatial structure - -l, 3 / l, 6-D-glucan. For its uniqueness, this -glucan got its own name -Grifolan.
In tests carried out at leading institutions around the world, scientists have figured out the mechanism of interaction between Grifolan and Macrophages.
Macrophages have two types of protein-based receptors on their surface - the complement receptor complex and the dectin-1 receptor. Molecule -l, 3 / l, 6-D-glucan(Grifolana) binds to these receptors and fixes on them, after which the macrophage activity is activated: the production of cytokines is launched, which help in our fight against infection and cancer, and the macrophage's ability to recognize foreign agents that threaten health increases.
Specific mechanism of action for tumors.
1.Activation of antitumor immunity.
Maitake contains a large number of unique -1,6-1,3-D glucans, which have the ability to activate the body's anti-tumor defense:
Increased maturation rate of Macrophages, NK cells, and Cytotoxic T lymphocytes;
Increasing the lifespan of these cells;
Activation and enhancement of their antitumor activity (lytic activity of natural killer and CTL macrophages). This means that -1,6-1,3-D glucans activate leukocytes so that they can more skillfully destroy swollen cells;
Stimulates the release by these cells of substances that inhibit tumor growth (cytokines - the production of Tumor Necrosis Factor - alpha or TNF-α; interleukin-1);
2. Maitake suppresses the effects of carcinogenic chemicals, which we receive with food, air and water, at home and at work, which can lead to the formation of malignant tumors.
3. Antimetastatic action.
Studies have shown that after taking Maitake extract, cancer cells found in the blood and / or lymph were destroyed by the activated immune cells. In addition, the substances produced after taking Maitake cause a sharp inhibition of tumor angiogenesis.
Tumor angiogenesis is the rapid formation of a circulatory system in a tumor, through which food and oxygen are supplied to the tumor and decay products are removed. As a result of the action of Maitake extract, macrophages release Tumor Necrosis Factor - alpha (TNF-α), which blocks the process of tumor angiogenesis, which leads to a gradual cessation of tumor nutrition and its regression.
4. Stimulation of cancer cell apoptosis.
Cell death occurs for two different reasons: passive necrosis or active apoptosis.
Apoptosis is a programmed cell death, a highly organized biochemical process. After fulfilling its function, a mechanism is triggered in the old cell, as a result of which the cell dies without damaging neighboring cells and without causing inflammation in the surrounding tissues.
Passive necrosis caused by chemotherapy is a disorganized, chaotic process of cell death, which, as a result of their death, release enzymes that are dangerous for neighboring cells, causing inflammation of healthy adjacent and distant tissues.
Maitake's biochemical agents alter the genetic code of cancer cells, including those genes that trigger apoptosis with the subsequent destruction of tumor cells.
five . Interesting butwith high general antitumor activity, which Maitake extract shows for tumors of the lungs, brain, liver, pancreas, stomach, rectum, melanoma and leukemia, it has the so-called. organ specificity, which is manifested in the treatment of cancer of the breast, uterus, ovaries, prostate and bladder. According to the latest data, the effectiveness of Maitake extract at these localizations is 20 - 28 times stronger than extracts from other medicinal mushrooms.
6. In addition, active substances Maitake block the enzymeglyoxalase-1,which is secreted by the tumor to protect against the body's immune forces.
7... With additional intake of Maitake extract during radiation and chemotherapyside effects are reduced: decreased appetite, vomiting, nausea, hair loss, pain, and decreased white blood cells in 90% of patients. In other words, Maitake extract improves quality of life with standard anti-cancer therapy.
In addition, the combined use of chemotherapy drugs and Maitake extract leads to more pronounced results than when using one chemistry.
Specific mechanism of action in infectious diseases
How Maitake can help treat infectious diseases.
Most often, the infectious process occurs against the background of reduced immunity. This means that the functions of the same macrophages, natural killer cells and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes are in an inactive or depressed state. In this case, exposure to these cells by Maitake-glucan leads to the activation of their functions - absorptive, cytolytic (destroying infectious agents) and regulatory (powerful release of substances - interleukins 1,2 and 3, which are responsible for the activation of other immune cells), which means the beginning of an effective fight infection. Further work of Maitake-glucans activates the system of humoral immunity - rapid synthesis of B-lymphocytes, enhanced synthesis of antibodies and -interferon, which are responsible for the direct destruction of invading bacteria or viruses.
The maintenance of the liver during the period of illness is of no small importance. at this moment, there is often a massive release of toxins that can damage the liver tissue. The active substances of Maitake eliminate damage to liver cells and restore its functions.
An important point in the use of Maitake extract is that the fungus is able to enhance the effect of antibiotics, while even forms of bacteria or fungi that were previously resistant to therapy can be destroyed.
Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is a member of the Meripilaceae family. Its also "dancing mushroom" literally translated from Japanese. This name comes from antiquity, because the people who found it danced with joy. It is believed that even during the days of feudal Japan, Mitake was extremely valuable for its medicinal properties. The Emperors paid for this type of mushroom in silver equal to its weight.
Device
A wild mushroom develops at the roots or decaying hardwood logs with hardwoods - oak, beech, Japanese oak and others. Maitake begins to grow from a tuberous structure the size of a potato. Its body is about 60 centimeters in size and consists of many grayish-brown caps, strongly folded or wavy. The fan-shaped fruiting bodies of the maitake overlap to form a large structure. Sometimes the mushroom can reach enormous sizes - more than 50 centimeters in diameter.
Spread
The mushroom is wild in parts of Japan, China and North America. It is rarely cultivated because strictly specific cultivation conditions are needed. Typically, this type of mushroom ripens during the fall months. Although maitake has been traditional in Japan and China for millennia, its natural habitats have increased significantly in the United States today.
Useful part
All parts are used.
Chemical composition
The chemical composition is rich in minerals - potassium, calcium and magnesium, vitamins - B2, D2 and niacin (vitamin PP). The main active ingredient in fungi is beta-D-glucan, which is a glucose polymer - protein-linked beta-D-glucose. The content of amino acids - glutamine, alanine and lysine in the bodies of young mushrooms is quite rich.
Medicinal properties and application
With its distinctive flavor, crunchy texture and pleasant aroma, maitake is considered a delightful delicacy in the culinary industry. In addition to its taste, the mushroom also has medicinal properties due to its varied chemical composition. It has a beneficial effect on the digestive system - improves liver function, regulates the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Maitake is widely used in traditional oriental medicine, which applies it to diabetes, stomach diseases, hypertension, chronic fatigue, chronic hepatitis and nervous tension. Laboratory tests have shown that the jelly extract is particularly effective against leukemia and stomach and bone cancers. Maitake extracts have a much stronger anti-tumor effect than other mushrooms. In 1992. The United States National Cancer Institute believes that maitake also has strong anti-HIV activity because beta-glucan stimulates the production of white blood cells in the bone marrow.
Mechanism of action
Various experiments have been carried out over the decades to reveal the mechanism of action of the maitake. Thanks to them, he is now known. The target cells that are affected by the active ingredients of the fungus are dendritic cells. These are the most numerous cells located just below the outer surfaces of the body - skin and mucous membranes. In the skin, they are described as Langerhans cells. Their function is related to the recognition of exogenous or endogenous invaders and the mobilization of an appropriate immune response. Given their widespread localization in tissues, dendritic cells are the first line of immune defense. These are the first cells to come in contact with glucan when using the fungus.
Initially, polysaccharides enter the oral cavity, where there are Langerhans cells of the oral mucosa, later they are recognized by dendritic cells in the stomach and intestines. Once glucagon is absorbed, it circulates in the liver, where Kupffer cells (dendritic cells) are targeted. Glucans that reach the lymphatic ganglia are phagocytosed by the dendritic cells of these ganglia. Glucans and proteoglycans activate dendritic cells because they act as antigenic stimuli. The close chemical structure of these substances in relation to the membrane of lymphocytes leads to activation and an increase in their effect, which reach the lymphatic ganglia, are phagocytized by the dendritic cells of these ganglia.
Extract
In the late eighties, Professor Dr. Hiroaki Nanba created an extract from a mushroom. It contains a particularly active polysaccharide, beta-glucan, which stimulates the immune system and activates certain cells and proteins (macrophages, T cells, interleukin-1 and -2, etc.),
Properties
- immunostimulating - 1,6 beta-glucan is recognized as one of the most effective means for stimulating the cellular immune response. This compound, which activates the body's immune defenses, stimulates the production of macrophages, T cells and lymphocytes. Maitake improves the immunological efficiency of these cells by increasing the production of cytotoxic agents by macrophages - interleukin-1 (IL1), interleukin-2 (IL2) and lymphokines, which activate lymphocytes and superoxide anions. It eliminates invaders in the body and prevents infectious diseases;
- the antitumor beta-glucan in this type of fungus activates the production of macrophages. In the body, they swallow and destroy tumor cells. Studies have shown that taking maitake during chemotherapy significantly increases its effectiveness while reducing side effects such as nausea, vomiting and hair loss;
- weight control - eating mushrooms helps lower blood pressure and lower blood cholesterol levels. This type of mushroom has been found to be low in calories but high in fiber, which makes you feel full. Yokota's study of 30 overweight people who had to consume maitake every day without changing other aspects of their diet showed that they lost up to 13 kg at the end of the two-month study;
- regulates blood sugar levels - A study by Japanese physician Nanba, who studies the composition and effects of maitake, suggests they are effective for high blood glucose levels. He experiments with laboratory rats to demonstrate that insulin resistance significantly affects insulin resistance by increasing the sensitivity of cells to insulin. The decrease in blood sugar is due to the fact that the mushroom contains natural inhibitors of alpha-glucosidase;
- improves female fertility - Research has shown that maitake can improve ovulation in women with menstrual irregularities caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The action of the fungus is more effectively compared to that of clomiphene (a synthetic drug used to stimulate ovulation);
- antioxidant;
- antibacterial;
- antiviral.
Diseases and conditions
- cancerous conditions;
- flu conditions;
- cardiac ischemia;
- obesity;
- diabetes;
- polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS);
- high cholesterol;
- rheumatoid arthritis;
- hepatitis;
- acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Forms of use
- extract;
- pills;
- capsules;
- powder
Interaction
The fungus has the ability to naturally lower blood sugar levels. Its consumption in any form, together with drugs prescribed for the treatment of diabetes, is contraindicated. Shared consumption can cause a hypoglycemic crisis.
There are many different foods that are designed to improve human health, and one of them is a mushroom called maitake (Grifola frondosa). These medicinal mushrooms are an integral part of traditional Japanese medicine and have been used for centuries to treat various diseases. In Japanese treatises, the mushroom is referred to as the "king of mushrooms" because of its large size and immense health benefits. Maitake has many medicinal properties and has high medicinal properties.
Maitake mushrooms are sold as supplements, capsules and tablets. The extract extracted from the mushroom is called the maitake-D fraction, which is commonly used by humans to restore health. Before you start taking these supplements, you need to consult with your doctor to prescribe the exact dosage that will only benefit, not harm your health.
Maitake contains substances that are highly effective to ward off various infections and viruses. Consuming these mushrooms can have a positive effect on the heart and immune system. The following are the most common medicinal properties of maitake.
Prevents cardiovascular diseases
This is the most important benefit of the mushroom, which will keep your heart in good shape. People who eat diets high in maitake are less likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease. Consuming these mushrooms daily can significantly reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease. For those looking for a path to a healthy heart, including this type of mushroom in their diet would be the best option.
Strengthens the immune system
To strengthen your immune system, you need maitake in your diet. Maitake improves overall health, as a weak immune system certainly cannot fight infection. These mushrooms are natural stimulants of the immune system, ready for any viral attack.
Prevents gastrointestinal problems
: Heartburn often causes pain in our stomach. This mushroom will help eliminate stomach ailments. This is because maitake aids digestion, thus preventing indigestion.
Decrease in blood pressure
Research shows that maitake extracts and supplements can work wonders in reducing high blood pressure. It is very important! After all, high blood pressure is the main cause of most cardiovascular diseases.
Eliminates side effects and complications after a grueling course of chemotherapy
It is well known that chemotherapy used to treat cancer has many unpleasant side effects such as hair loss, vomiting and nausea. Taking Maitake extract solves this problem too!
Manages diabetes
Scientific research shows that maitake (Grifola frondosa) may help regulate blood glucose levels, thereby helping to reduce the symptoms of diabetes.
Lowers High Cholesterol
People with high cholesterol are prone to heart attacks. Research shows that these mushrooms can help people suffering from high blood cholesterol.
In addition, several other benefits are attributed to maitake, the most striking of which is its ability to fight cancer. They are also widely used in weight loss programs as a food supplement.
In the fight against cancer
One of the main reasons why it is worth consuming these mushrooms on a daily basis lies in their anti-cancer properties. Recent studies have shown that maitake taken in any form (raw, boiled, or as a supplement) not only strengthens the immune system, but also stimulates the production of cancer cells. In other words, the consumption of maitake in some cases can prevent the development of cancer. Current research also shows that compounds in fungi can inhibit the development of cancer cells.
Slimming use
According to numerous studies, these mushrooms have been found to be very effective for weight loss. Many people eat them to get rid of obesity problems. Light exercise, supplemented by proper nutrition with the inclusion of maitake (Grifola frondosa, Griffola curly) in the diet can make a significant contribution to the fight against excess weight loss.
Cooking use
Processed maitake can be added to a variety of dishes such as salads, sauces, pizza, and simply to enhance the flavor of different dishes. It can be used as a flavor enhancer in almost every dish. To keep you safe, doctors recommend using only organically grown mushrooms.
When it comes to staying healthy, using maitake in your diet is the right choice! But in order to reap the benefits of health, you need to take them daily. The health benefits become apparent only after 2 weeks. So let's include these mushrooms in your diet, after all, health is our main wealth!