Maitake Mushroom: Nutrition, Health Benefits, Side Effects and Recipe

1. Strengthens immunity

Consuming maitake mushroom can help in boosting your immunity by fighting off foreign invaders and protecting your body against infections. Maitake mushrooms contain beta-glucan, a type of polysaccharide, a long molecule of carbohydrates that has a positive effect on the immune system. An in vitro study published in the Annals of Translational Medicine found that maitake mushroom extract, when combined with shiitake mushroom extract, were effective in stimulating an immune response. Though the study looks promising, further research is needed in humans [3].

2. Reduces cholesterol levels

Noted studies have suggested that maitake mushroom could help in lowering cholesterol levels naturally. An animal study published in the Journal of Oleo Science found that maitake mushroom extract was effective in decreasing cholesterol levels in mice. However, further research studies are needed in humans [4].

3. Lowers diabetes risk

Some animal studies suggest that maitake mushroom may lower blood glucose levels. A 2015 study published in the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms found that maitake mushrooms reduced blood glucose levels in rats with type 2 diabetes [5]. Another study showed similar results that maitake mushrooms possess powerful anti-diabetic properties that lowered blood glucose levels in diabetic mice [6].

4. Controls blood pressure

Consuming maitake mushroom daily can help stabilise blood pressure levels. As per a study published in the International Journal of Medical Sciences, rats that were given maitake mushroom extract could help lessen age-related hypertension [7]. Another study showed that feeding rats maitake mushroom for eight weeks reduced blood pressure [8]

5. May treat PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that causes the ovaries to become enlarged where small cysts start forming on the outer edges of the ovaries. PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility.

Some research studies suggest that maitake mushrooms may work against PCOS and can help combat infertility. A 2010 study found that maitake mushroom extract was able to induce ovulation in PCOS patients and was nearly as effective as traditional medicines used for the treatment of PCOS [9].

6. May manage cancer

Research studies have shown that maitake mushroom may contain cancer-fighting properties that may help in preventing and treating cancer. Maitake extract can slow down the growth of breast cancer cells, thanks to the presence of beta-glucan known as D-fraction in the mushroom that has been found to have anti-tumour activity [10] [11] [12].

Another study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that maitake mushroom may suppress the growth of tumour in mice [13].

Side Effects Of Maitake Mushroom

Consumption of maitake mushroom is considered safe. However, some people may have an allergic reaction to the mushroom. Some studies have reported that maitake mushroom supplements may interact with certain medicines like blood sugar lowering medications and blood-thinning medications [14] [15].

Additionally, you shouldn't consume maitake mushroom within two weeks of scheduled surgery.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before consuming maitake mushrooms.

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How To Use Maitake Mushroom

Choose whole fresh, young and firm mushrooms and wash them properly before consuming. Store the mushrooms in a paper bag in the refrigerator. You can add them to soups, stir-fries, salad, pasta, pizza, omelette and other dishes.

If you are considering taking maitake mushroom supplements, consult with your doctor before ingesting it.

Maitake Mushroom Recipe

Grilled Thai Marinated Maitake Mushrooms [16]

Ingredients:

• 900 g maitake mushroom
• ¾ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup tamari
• 6 leeks cut into small pieces
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 3 tbsp white wine
• ¼ tsp sea salt
• 1/8 tsp ground black pepper

Method:

• Wash the mushrooms properly and slice them up. Then lay them out in a casserole dish for marinating.
• Add all the marinade ingredients in a blender and blend it well. Pour it over the mushrooms.
• Cover the casserole with a plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for four hours.
• Then take it out and grill over medium high heat on each side for 3 to 5 minutes and serve.

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