Wow! It’s a great mushroom! Maitake mushrooms are a unique mushroom. They belong to the same family as the mushrooms that have been reclassified. It’s like a champion. Maitakes are packed with nutrients, as opposed to the standard button cap mushroom we all know. Miatakes provide a lot of nutrients, including B-Vitamins (including Vitamin C), Niacin, Potassium and Selenium. These mushrooms have an excellent flavor, with a meaty texture. Sauteed this mushroom to perfection as a delicious side dish to complement almost any menu. Visit soulcybin before reading this.
Maitake comes from Japan’s mountains. Their dark fronds, which are slightly crumbly on the edges and have a firm but supple foundation can be easily recognized. This dark foliage, which looks like the tail feathers from a chicken, is what gives the “dancing” butterfly or the “hen in the woods”. You can find Maitakes growing on deciduous woods in the temperate forests of northern US. Maitake mushrooms are being grown in strict conditions by many different companies. This is done to protect the inherent nutritional benefits of this cherished mushroom.
Natural medicinal properties are making maitake mushrooms famous. This species is reportedly used in many countries to inhibit tumors, treat high cholesterol, low blood sugar, or high blood pressure. It may also stimulate the immune system. Maitake contains medicinally active compounds in both the fruit and mycelium. A result of the use of Maitake mushrooms as a medicine in other countries in US laboratories, and by specialty producers who are specialized in producing active agents for nutraceuticals. Now, medicinal extracts are available in US health food stores and holistic healthcare offices.
It contains high amounts of a specialized molecule, Beta 1,3,1,6 Glucans. This complex, naturally occurring molecular compound is said to improve the function of the immune systems. Researchers have found that oral intake of Maitake compounds activates immune system cells including macrophages. T-cells. and interleukin-1. Recent research also suggests that natural maitake plant chemicals, which are independent from the Beta compound, could have similar tumor-fighting properties.
Despite the fact that research into this magical mushroom, known as Maitake, is only in its early stages of development there are already enough preliminary findings to indicate the need for further investigation regarding the inherent health benefits. Maitake mushroom interest and that of other members in the family of medicinal mushrooms as a group has risen. Over the past twenty years, interest in all medicinal mushrooms has increased in the US. Harriet Benfield, an author and acupuncturist says “The health food movement in the late 60’s was what started it all.” It is now health care.
The Maitake mushroom is relatively new to US diets, but it has proven to be an excellent addition. Naturally occurring extracts may serve as an important part of any supplement routine. Today, have you eaten your Maitake?