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)
Products containing Maitake Mushroom Extract (Grifola frondosa)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Maitake Mushroom Extract (Grifola frondosa) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
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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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