Health Benefits:

Boost immune system

Maitake mushroom has an overall positive effect on the immune system as it is rich in vitamins and nutrients as well as containing polysaccharides which help to enhance the activity of certain immune system cells. Some studies show that maitake D-Fraction (a portion of the mushrooms complex sugars) could fight the growth and reproduction of cancerous cells, particularly in breast cancer. Other research has found it can suppress tumour growth in mice, whilst also increasing the number of cells fighting against the tumour. This could suggest that it would also be effective in managing cancer in humans.

Diabetes

Several studies have shown maitake to protect against diabetes. The mushroom is able to inhibit an enzyme that breaks down starch and simple sugars to glucose and slow the absorption of glucose in the body. These enzymes are called alpha-glucosidase, many conventional diabetic medications contain alpha-glucosidase inhibitors and therefore those who suffer from diabetes may look to maitake as a natural alternative.