- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- Asia, Europe, North America
- Other names
- Eikhaas
Asia · Mushroom · № 589
Grifola frondosa
Mushroom · Asia
Maitake
Grifola frondosa
Traditionally attributed effects: adaptogen; activates immune cells against cancer (macrophages, NK cells, T cells), reduces stress and strengthens resistance to colds and flu.
Safety notes
Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Western herbalism: Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.
Preparation
Decoction: 1 tsp powder per cup, 5 min covered, 1–3 cups a day; tincture 1 dropperful 1–3 times a day.
Use in traditions
Described in Western herbal medicine. Maitake, 'dancing mushroom', was so valuable in Japan that according to tradition finders danced for joy. It is eaten and sold as a supplement; its beta-glucans have been studied for the immune system, without convincing clinical evidence.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
Adaptogen; activates immune cells against cancer (macrophages, NK cells, T cells), reduces stress and strengthens resistance to colds and flu.
Preparation and amount
Decoction: 1 tsp powder per cup, 5 min covered, 1–3 cups a day; tincture 1 dropperful 1–3 times a day.
Caution: Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- DecoctionTincturePowder and kitchen