Shiitake | Unpacking The Research
The Basics
Shiitake is a type of mushroom native to East Asia, historically used in traditional medicine. Modern research suggests potential benefits in boosting immunity, as it contains polysaccharides, terpenoids, and lentinan, which may stimulate the immune system. Additionally, Shiitake may aid cardiovascular health due to its eritadenine content, which could potentially lower cholesterol levels. Other potential benefits include anticancer properties and improved gut health. Despite these promising findings, research is ongoing and results have not yet been deemed conclusive by the EFSA, please form your own opinion of the scientific conclusions below.
Shiitake Research
Immunity
Study 1: Regular L. edodes consumption (5 or 10 grams of shiitake mushrooms daily for 4 weeks) resulted in improved immunity: it was found that consuming whole dried L. edodes mushrooms led to a boost in the growth and activation of certain immune cells, an increase in protective proteins in saliva, a reduction in inflammation markers in the blood, and a modulation in the production of various immune response proteins, enhancing the overall immune function in healthy young individuals.
Source: Consuming Lentinula edodes (Shiitake) Mushrooms Daily Improves Human Immunity (2015)
Study 2: “Polysaccharides derived from L. edodes (Shiitake mushrooms) have been confirmed to exhibit immunomodulatory properties by modulating both innate and adaptive immune responses”
Source: Immunomodulatory Properties of Polysaccharides from Lentinula edodes (2022)
Cardiovascular Health
Study 1: The dietary mushrooms decreased the blood pressure. The plasma free cholesterol level decreased in Shiitake-fed animals. Shiitake feeding resulted in a decrease in VLDL- and HDL-cholesterol whereas Maitake feeding caused a decrease in VLDL-cholesterol only. The results suggest that dietary mushrooms prevent blood pressure increase in hypertension.
Source: Effect of shiitake (Lentinus edodes) and maitake (Grifola frondosa) mushrooms on blood pressure and plasma lipids (1987)
Study 2: The extracts were found to have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and they were able to inhibit the oxidation of low density lipoprotein (LDL) and the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGR), a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. These findings suggest that shiitake mushrooms may be beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Source: Lentinula edodes (shiitake mushroom): An assessment of in vitro anti-atherosclerotic bio-functionality (2018)
What Makes Our Shiitake Superior?
Uncompromising Quality and Purity:
At Andïnn Organics, we believe in providing only the best for our customers, and our shiitake mushroom supplement is no exception. Unlike other products on the market, our shiitake is 100% pure, with no fillers or additives. We take pride in ensuring that what you get is nothing but the pure, organic goodness of shiitake mushrooms, straight from nature.
High Potency for Maximum Benefit:
Our shiitake mushrooms are not just organic, but they also boast a potent extract ratio. For every 1 gram of our extract, we use 12 grams of fresh mushrooms. This means that you get the maximum benefit from each serving, making our shiitake superior in terms of potency and effectiveness.
Rich in Polysaccharides:
Our shiitake supplement is high in polysaccharides - a type of carbohydrate that is known for its potential benefits. We ensure that our shiitake extract contains 40% polysaccharides, a concentration that is hard to find in other products. This high polysaccharide content further enhances the quality and potential benefits of our shiitake supplement.
Organic and Responsible Sourcing:
As the name suggests, Andïnn Organics is all about organic products. Our shiitake mushrooms are organically grown, ensuring that they are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. We believe in responsible sourcing and only work with growers who share our commitment to organic farming and sustainable practices.