grifola frondosa

Grifola frondosa is an edible medicinal mushroom native to East Asia, commonly known as maitake or hen-of-the-woods. It is used both as a food and a dietary supplement. Grifola frondosa contains a variety of bioactive compounds, primarily polysaccharides such as beta-glucans, glycoproteins, proteins, sterols, and phenolic compounds, which have demonstrated significant pharmacological potential. Mechanistically, its polysaccharide fractions are believed to exert effects by modulating the immune system, enhancing cellular responses through macrophage, NK cell, and T cell activation, and influencing cytokine production. Preclinical and limited clinical studies suggest it may have antitumor, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and lipid-lowering effects. The mushroom and its extracts are marketed mainly as dietary supplements to support immune function and metabolic health, with ongoing research into roles in cancer adjunctive therapy, viral infection support, diabetes, hypertension, and PCOS. It is not a pharmaceutical drug and is not approved by regulatory agencies for treatment of any disease[1][2][3][5][6][7].

Other names

maitakehen-of-the-woodshui-shu-hua