Overview
Immune support and adjunct oncology support (especially via lentinan in Japan); lipid/cholesterol support and general wellness/‘anti-aging’ framing are noted. Also described for antiviral and antimicrobial support via immunomodulation (as discussed).
Plant family
Polyporaceae
Parts used
Fruiting body
Actions
Adaptogen · Tonic · Antimicrobial · Anti-inflammatory
Affinities
Immune · Cardiovascular
Body systems
Immune · Cardiovascular
Taste profile
Delicate flavor
Tissue states
Traditional use
Food-medicine use with long-standing tonic reputation; traditional East Asian use for ‘strengthening’ and longevity-style applications is reflected in the monograph framing (as described).
Current use
Immune support and adjunct oncology support (especially via lentinan in Japan); lipid/cholesterol support and general wellness/‘anti-aging’ framing are noted. Also described for antiviral and antimicrobial support via immunomodulation (as discussed).
Preparation
Whole mushroom, decoction, powdered mycelium extract (LEME)
Dosage guidance
Whole dried mushroom: 6-16 g/day (eaten in soups or as decoction; boil 10-20 min, cool, strain, consume within 24 hours). Lentinan extract: 1-3 g, 2-3x/day. Note: Purified lentinan considered drug in Japan; not available as herbal supplement in North America. Usually administered parenterally; appears to have little antitumor activity when administered orally.
Cautions & contraindications
Contraindicated with mushroom/mushroom derivative hypersensitivity. May be contraindicated with eosinophilia (may exacerbate condition). Small study: Daily ingestion of 4 g shiitake powder for 10 weeks caused eosinophilia, increased eosinophil granule proteins, increased GI symptoms in half (5 of 10) individuals. AHPA: Class 1.
Evidence notes
Page notes lentinan is approved as a cancer drug in Japan and is typically administered parenterally; oral purified lentinan may have limited antitumor activity. Evidence includes clinical adjunct studies in gastric cancer and immune markers; adverse effects include dermatitis/eosinophilia in some cases.