Herbal Extract
Maitake Mushroom Extract (Grifola frondosa)
Also known as: Grifola frondosa, Hen of the Woods, Maitake, Maitake fruiting body
Maitake mushroom extract is a fungal polysaccharide supplement traditionally used in Asian medicine, with emerging evidence for immune support through beta-glucan content. Most clinical research is limited in scope and quality, with promising but not conclusive findings.
Primary uses
- Immune system support
- General wellness
- Complementary cancer adjunct (investigational)
How it works
- Beta-glucan polysaccharides may enhance natural killer cell and macrophage activity
- Potential modulation of complement and antibody-mediated immunity
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500–3000 mg daily (extract)
- Timing
- Can be taken any time of day
- With food
- No specific requirement; may take with or without food
- Duration
- Most studies used 4–12 weeks; optimal long-term duration unknown
- Special populations
- Pregnant/nursing women should consult healthcare provider; individuals with mushroom allergies should avoid
Forms
- Powder extract· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
- Tablet· 70/100
- Liquid extract· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Mild gastrointestinal upset
- Dry mouth
- Nosebleeds (rare, reported in case studies)
Contraindications
- Known mushroom allergy or sensitivity
- Uncontrolled bleeding disorders (theoretical concern)
- Autoimmune diseases (immunostimulation concern—consult provider)
Evidence notes
Limited number of human clinical trials with mixed quality. Most positive data from in vitro and animal studies. Few rigorous RCTs in human populations. Beta-glucan immune effects are plausible but not robustly established for maitake specifically.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
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