Maitake is the Japanese name for Grifolia Frondosa, a large
mushroom that grows in the eastern U.S., Europe and Asia. In the Ozarks
it is found growing as a usually large mass of overlapping, scalloped
fruiting bodies around the base of old stumps. Sometimes one mushroom
can weigh 10 pounds or more; and is found freshest in the spring/early
summer and sometimes again later in the fall. Maitake is an edible
mushroom that in the Orient is cooked in soups, and in the West is
prepared in various ways.
Maitake is one of several mushrooms that have been valued in the
Orient for "building the body's defenses". In traditional Oriental
medicine the body's defensive immune system was recognized before it was
ever known to exist in Western medicine. Out of all the mushrooms that
have been studied for their effects on the immune system, the Maitake
seems to be one of the strongest; and while various extracts. such as
Fraction D, have been isolated from Maitake, it appears that its many
benefits can be obtained from oral doses of the whole mushroom.
In numerous studies, Maitake and its extracts have been shown to
significantly boost the immune system and build immune reserves. It also
contains a number of anti-tumor and tumor-inhibiting compounds. Other
tests point to potent liver-protectant properties; as well as lowering
blood pressure and lowering blood glucose levels.
Personal research has led me to collect anecdotal evidence on the use of
Maitake for auto-immune and allergic-type conditions that would suggest
it is of value in balancing the immune system.
To sum up, Maitake may be of benefit in cancer, as well as AIDS and
other conditions with low immune reserves. For those undergoing
chemotherapy where the immune system needs to be re-vitalized. For liver
disease and as a preventative in impaired liver due to toxic exposures.
For hypertension, and as an adjunct in diabetes. It may be of benefit
in auto-immune and over-reactive immune conditions as well.
Maitake can be found as a Teeter Creek single extract, and as a part
of our IMMUNAID and AL-R-G formulas. We absolutely do not claim cures
for cancer, but have seen some remarkable results with those that have
used the Immunaid in conjunction with the Sheep Sorrel Formula, Red
Clover extracts and other herbs added according to the site and the
personal health history; in a number of instances in conjunction with
chemo- and other standard therapies (consult with your physician).