Health Benefits of 12 Mushroom extracts used in Alive MegaNutritional

Mushroom Extracts

Cordyceps

Cordyceps is a genus of ascomycete fungi and some of its members including Cordyceps mycelium are commonly used in herbal medicine. The popular species in commercial products are Cordyceps sinensis, Cordyceps ophioglossoides, Cordyceps capita, and Cordyceps. militaris. Cordyceps militaris is a traditional herbal ingredient frequently used for tonic and medicinal purposes in eastern Asia, while, Cordyceps sinensis (dong chong xia cao; 冬蟲夏草) has been suggested to possess anti-tumor, immunostimulant and antioxidant activities.

The chemical constituents for most species include cordycepin (3′-de-oxyadenosine) and its derivatives, ergosterol, polysaccharides, a glycoprotein and peptides containing alpha-aminoisobutyric acid. Their benefits are suggested to include anti-tumour, anti-metastatic, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, insecticidal, antimicrobial, hypolipidaemic, hypoglycaemic, anti-ageing, neuroprotective and renoprotective effects. Polysaccharide accounts for the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumour, anti-metastatic, immunomodulatory, hypoglycaemic, steroidogenic and hypolipidaemic effects. Cordycepin contributes to the anti-tumour, insecticidal and antibacterial activity. Ergosterol exhibits anti-tumour and immunomodulatory activity.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CORDYCEPS

Cordyceps may promote liver health.

Researchers from Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine proposed the use of Cordyceps sinensis on liver fibrosis. In a study, they induced liver fibrosis in rats with dimethylnitrosamine and then they treated the rats with Cordyceps sinensis.

They found that the content of metalloproteinases-2 in Cordyceps sinensis-treated group was significantly higher than that in the untreated group. Thus, cordyceps sinensis promoted collagen degradation.

Cordyceps may have benefits in diabetes.

Researchers from University of Macau, China, isolated a polysaccharide of molecular weight approximately 210kDa was isolated from cultured Cordyceps mycelia. This isolated polysaccharides, CSP-1, has a strong antidant activity and a hypoglycemic effect on normal and alloxan-diabetic mice and streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats.

When administered at a dose of higher than 200mg/kg body wt. daily for 7 days, CSP-1 produced a significant drop in blood glucose level in both STZ-induced diabetic rats and alloxan-induced diabetic mice.

Researchers from China Agricultural University, Beijing, also noticed the blood glucose lowering effects of a polysaccharide extracted from the fruting bodies and mycelia of Cordyceps militaris in a study of rats. The hypoglycemic effect of this polysaccharide-enriched Cordyceps militaris extract was dose-dependent.

Cordyceps have antioxidant activities.

Researchers from Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Taiwan, demonstrated the protective effects of cultured Cordyceps militaris and natural Cordyceps sinensis against oxidative damage of biomolecules in a vitro study. They both have free radical scavenging abilities.

Cordyceps may have benefits in cancers.

The aqueous extract of Cordyceps sinensis (Cs), one of the traditional Chinese medicines, has been demonstrated to benefit a wide range of disorders in either animal or test-tube studies. Here are some most recent animal or in vitro studies suggesting its benefits in cancers.

Korean researchers reported cytotoxic effects of cultivated fruiting bodies of Cordyceps militaris extracts against the proliferation of the human premyelocytic leukemia cell HL-60 via the activation of caspase-3.

Researchers from Nanjing University shows that a polysaccharide extracted from a cultivated Cordyceps sinensis fungus significantly enhanced superoxide dismutase activity of liver, brain and serum as well as glutathione peroxidase activity of liver and brain in tumor-bearing mice. It also inhibited H22 tumor growth in the mice.

Cordyceps sinensis mycelium was found to induce MA-10 mouse Leydig tumor cell death. Researchers from Taiwan found that Cordyceps sinensis induced MA-10 cell apoptosis by activating caspase-8-dependent and caspase-9-independent pathways and downregulating NF-?B protein expression.

Hong Kong researchers demonstrated that an ethanol extract of cultivated mycelium of a Cordyceps sinensis fungal mycelium has strong anti-tumor activity on four cancer cell lines MCF-7 breast cancer, B16 mouse melanoma, HL-60 human premyelocytic leukemia and HepG2 human hepatocellular carcinoma. In an animal test, the EtOAc extract showed significant inhibiting effect on B16-induced melanoma in C57BL/6 mice, causing about 60% decrease of tumor size over 27 days. In contrast, this extract had much lower cytotoxicity against normal mouse bone marrow cells.  Researchers reported that it contained mainly carbohydrates, adenosine, ergosterol and trace amount of cordycepin.

Cordyceps may help body defense, against infections and inflammation. Cordyceps may modulate immunity.

Cordyceps sinensis is believed to be an immunomodulator. Hong Kong researchers demonstrated that a cultivated strain of Cordyceps sinensis induced the production of interleukin(IL)-1beta, IL-6, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor alphaalpha from PBMC, augmented surface expression of CD25 on lymphocytes in a vitro study. While, researchers from Zhejiang University, China, desmonstrated increased ovalbumin- specific IgG, IgG1 and IgG2b serum levels after treating the mice with edible mycelia of Cordyceps sinensis.

A rat study has shown that a Cordyceps sinensis mycelium extract protected mice from group A streptococcal infection. It increased IL-12 and IFN-gamma expression and macrophage phagocytic activities.

Cordyceps show benefit in diabetes in a study of animals.

Korean researchers showed a water-extract of Cordyceps militaris ameliorated insulin resistance by enhancing glucose utilization in skeletal muscles of rats.

Cordyceps show benefit in memory deficits in a test-tube study.

The extract of Cordyceps ophioglossoides protected the Abeta-induced neuronal cell death and memory loss through free radical scavenging activity.

Cordyceps alter testosterone levels in mice.

Researchers from Taiwan noticed the stimulating effects of Cordyceps sinensis extracts on the secretion of testosterone in mice; this effect is in dose- and time- dependent relationships. They are hoping this effect may offer benefits to those with reproductive problems.

Cordyceps show cholesterol-lowering effects in animal studies.

In a study, researchers fed mice with cholesterol-enriched diet. They found that the serum total cholesterol (TC) of all mice groups administered Cordyceps sinensis extracts with the cholesterol-enriched diet decreased more than in the control group.

Cordyceps show liver protection in animal studies.

Cordyceps sinensis may be able to adjust the T lymphocyte subsets level and to treat hepatic fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis. In the study, the researchers supplied cordyceps sinensis to 25 patients suffered from chronic hepatitis for three months. They found CD4 and CD4/CD8 ratio increased significantly(P < 0.05), while HA and PC III decreased significantly(P < 0.05) compared with the control.

In another study of rats, researchers from Korea demonstrated four weeks of administration of extracellular biopolymers from mycelial liquid culture of Cordyceps militaris has a beneficial effect in rats with liver fibrosis.

Cordyceps show cardiobascular protection in animal studies.

Extracts of the fruiting bodies of cultured Cordyceps sinensis has been shown to exert beneficial effects on the formation of the atherosclerotic lesion induced by oxidative stress with few side effects in a study of mice. In the study, researchers fed mice with an atherogenic diet and treated with the extracts for 12 weeks. Mice fed the atherogenic diet showed marked increases in serum lipid and lipid peroxide levels and also aortic cholesterol levels, particularly cholesteryl ester level, a major lipid constituent in atherosclerotic lesions. According to the authors, the extracts significantly suppressed the increased serum lipid peroxide level but not other lipid levels in a dose-dependent manner.  WECS also suppressed the increased aortic cholesteryl ester level in a dose-dependent manner.

Researchers isolated a macromolecule from Cordyceps sinensis and they found this molecule has blood pressure lowering and vaso-relaxing effects. The researchers explained that the vasorelaxation was mediated by the endothelium possibly by stimulating the release of the nitric oxide and endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor.

SIDE EFFECTS OF CORDYCEPS

The side effects of Cordyceps sinensis are limited for recommended dosages.

Reishi

Reishi is a unique health food with a wide range of medicinal properties which collectively strengthens the immune system and gives the user longevity:

* It has the rare and valuable properties of an Adaptogen, which means that it is non-toxic, non-specific, and has a normalizing effect on the body.

* It is classified as Top of the Superior Quality of all herbs by the pharmacopoeia used by Chinese doctors for thousands of years. Emperors have considered Reishi an herb for the immortals. Its stature is higher than Ginseng.

* It has a long history of safe use (5,000 years). NO toxicity or side-effect has been reported.

* There are 30 years of ample modern scientific evidences in the laboratory and in the clinic for its effectiveness.

* It has extremely wide applications, bringing benefits to the entire body, preventing almost all the common diseases.

* Its potency as a medicine even exceeds many modern drugs. For example, it is more effective than Melatonin and certainly much safer and free from side-effects.

* It is effective even for “terminal” illnesses such as cancer, AIDS, and coronary heart disease.

* It is effective for both PREVENTION and CURE, suitable for daily use as a health supplement.

* It is very easy to gain acceptance by new users because of Reishi’s stature, publicity, and complete safety.

The Most Common Uses of Reishi

Reishi is commonly used for:

* Longevity and prevention of diseases

* Insomnia

* Stress

* Influenza and common cold

* Asthma

* Allergies

* Cancer

* Hypertension

* Heart Disease

* High Cholesterol (LDL)

* Diabetes

* Headache

* Stomach ache

* Arthritis

* Back pain

* Skin Care

* Hair loss

* Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

* Hepatitis

What is Reishi?

Reishi is the Japanese name for Ganoderma Lucidum. The Chinese call it Lingzhi.

Ganoderma Lucidum is a mushroom, a higher order organism of the world of fungus. It belongs to the Polypore group.

“Polypores, commonly known as bracket or shelf fungi, are conspicuous mushrooms that grow off the sides of trees. On a walk through the forest one can commonly see many such bracket mushrooms.”

“What is not readily visible to us however is the actual mushroom organism, or mycelium. Just as an apple is the fruit of an apple tree, so too is a mushroom the fruit body of a mycelial “tree”. Mycelium is a network of the threadlike filaments that originates from spores. The mycelium spreads throughout the nutrient base or substrate, amassing nutrients as it grows. As long as environmental conditions are right, the mycelium will continue to grow and propagate until it exhausts the available nutrients.”

“As long as nutrients are available, the mycelium can be considered perennial and will live for many years. At least once a year, mushrooms emerge from the mycelial network. As the reproductive organ of the fungus, mushrooms are the means by which spores are created and spread.”

— from Reishi Mushroom: Herb of Spiritual Potency and Medical Wonder, Terry Willard, Sylvan Press, 1991

In Jan. 1992 an excellent article about Reishi appeared in Health Foods Business: “Rei-Shi: Ancient Medicine is Modern Hope.” By Linda McGlasson, Assistant Editor.

Why is Reishi so special?

The status of Reishi in the health food industry is unparalleled. It is the culmination of the knowledge and wisdom of the East and West for 5,000 years. Its effectiveness as a health food and as a highly potent medicine have been demonstrated by over 30 years of modern scientific research in Japan, Taiwan, China, U.S.A., Canada, and Poland. Backed by 5,000 years of accumulated experience, Reishi can safely claim to be totally free from side-effects. The wide range of health benefits we can receive from Reishi is also unmatched. As it was so rare, Reishi was available only to emperors in ancient times. The first emperor of China, Shih Huang Ti, sent a fleet with 250 yourng men and 250 young ladies to Japan in search of the herb of longevity, which is Reishi.

Reishi is the king of adaptogens. It is superior to Ginseng. Adaptogens share three important properties:

1. Non-toxic and free from side-effects.

2. Non-specific, acting on the entire body.

3. Normalizes physiological functions.

Reishi contains 800-2,000 ppm of organic germanium, which is 4-5 times more than Ginseng. Germanium is a trace element with adaptogenic functions.

Active Ingredients

Modern medical research in the East and West have identified some of the physiological actions of Reishi. Chemical analysis has revealed that Reishi contains:

* High Molecular Weight Polysaccharides

* Triterpenes

* Organic Germanium

* Adenosine

* Amino Acids

* Vitamins

In addition to all of the ingredients in the fruit body, Reishi mycelium contains:

* Higher level of the RNA which disrupts viral diseases by inducing interferon production.

* Oleic Acid, an inhibitor of histamine release

* Cyclooctasulfur, a strong inhibitor of histamine release

* LZ-8, an immunomodulating protein which significantly reduces but doesn’t entirely shut down antibody production.

The Benefits of Reishi

The scientific data accumulated over the past 30 years help explain why Reishi is effective in all parts of our body:

* Immune System

o Cancer: Reishi is an effective anti-tumor medicine

o Common Cold

o Influenza

o Cough

o Inflammation

o Rheumatoid Arthritis

o Allergies

o Lupus

o Stomatitis (canker sores)

o Reishi acts as an antioxidant against free radicals

o Reishi protects against the effects of radiation

o Reishi has anti-inflammatory effects

* Respiratory System

o Asthma

o Chronic Bronchitis

* Endocrine System

o Problems associated with Menopause

o Irregular mentruation

* Nervous System

o Insomnia

o Neurasthenia

o Stress-induced tension

o Over-sleep

o Headache

o Toothache

o Cataracts

o Muscular Dystrophy

o Myasthenia Gravis

* Circulatory System

o Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

o Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)

o Coronary Heart Disease

o Arteriosclerosis

o Arrhythmia

o Stroke

o Reduction of Cholesterol (LDL)

o Anemia

o Cold Extremities

o Hemorrhoid

o Elevation sickness

* Digestive System

o Gastroenteritis

o Ulcer

o Hepatitis

o Liver Necrosis

o Reishi regenerates the liver

o Obesity — Reishi removes fat in the blood

o Underweight — Reishi improves appetite

o Diabetes

o Constipation

o Diarrhea

o Gallstones

* Skin

o Aging of the skin

o Ugly spots on the skin

o Acne

o Hair loss

o Dermatitis

* Excretory System

o Nephritis

* Reproductive System

o Erectile Dysfunction

o Lack of sexual desire

o Dysmenorrhea (Mentrual cramps)

The different types of Reishi

In ancient times, only wild Reishi was available. Reishi was classified by color into 6 types: Red, Green, White, Black, Yellow, Purple.

In 1972, researchers at Kyoto University in Japan successfully cultivated Reishi in the laboratory. From a single species, Ganoderma Lucidum (Red Reishi), all six colors could be grown by varying the temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide content, and the available nutrients. The six types of Reishi are thus shown to be one species.

Wild Reishi is extremely rare. Only one or two mushrooms can be found on a hill. Due to damage by insects and weather, the quality of wild Reishi is unpredictable. Only the fruit body can be harvested, when the active ingredients have already decreased. The dried mushrooms may not have the potency of the fresh mushroom. When buying wild Reishi, expertise is required in order not to confuse Reishi with the hundreds of other mushrooms (some of which are poisonous). After it matures, the fruit body is hardened by fibers which makes it more difficult to extract and digest the active ingredients. The spores are of microscopic dimensions, similar to the size of bacteria. They are protected by two layers of hardened cell walls. These cell walls trap the active ingredients inside and are indigestible.

Although wild Reishi fruit body and the spores are all effective products, our ancestors had to use a large quantity of Reishi to get a little benefit. As it was impossible to cultivate, this rare mushroom was available only to emperors.

Modern bio-engineering technology has made Reishi available to the general public in large quantities. The quality can be carefully controlled by providing the best conditions and sufficient nutrients. Further investigations have discovered that the largest amount of active ingredients exist in the mycelium, and that the mycelium is more digestible. The extraction process can be timed at the precise stage when the mycelium contains the largest amount of active ingredients. Fresh mycelium is available, and there is no chance for mistaken identity. Without the obstacles of the fibers, the extraction is more complete and the extract is more digestible. Therefore, the latest research on the medicinal properties of Reishi are done on the mycelial extracts.

Reishi is now available in capsule or tablet form, which makes it possible to avoid the bitter taste and standardize the dosage. However, not all Reishi capsules are the same. Some capsules are made from the fruit body, which contain a large quantity of dietary fibers. Some capsules contain other herbs, which may lead to side-effects. Some capsules made from the mycelium contain also the grain from which the mycelium is grown (so only a small fraction of the capsule is actually Reishi mycelium). The differences can be readily identified by tasting the powder. Pure Reishi has an intense, pure bitter taste. The best Reishi capsule is the extract of pure Reishi mycelium without the grain.

Several manufacturers have printed misleading brochures to promote the use of their own products. Such conflicting information can be confusing. The intelligent consumer will be careful in checking the source of information. Third-party documentation, especially those written by scientists, are the only reliable source.

An excellent definitive work on Reishi is “Reishi Mushroom, herb of spiritual potency and medical wonder”, written by Dr. Terry Willard, Ph.D., member of the Canadian Government’s Expert Advisory Committee on Herbs and Botanical Preparations. Also very informative is the Chinese books “Lingzhi and Health Vol. I-III” edited by Dr. Shiuh-Sheng Lee, Professor of Biochemistry at National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.

Shitake

Long a symbol of longevity in Asia because of their health-promoting properties, shiitake mushrooms have been used medicinally by the Chinese for more than 6,000 years. More recently, their rich, smoky flavor has endeared them to American taste buds and these exotic hearty mushrooms can now be found in supermarket shelves across the U.S. throughout the year.

Like other mushrooms, these specialty mushrooms are as mysteriously unique as they are delicious. While often thought of as a vegetable and prepared like one, mushrooms are actually a fungus, a special type of living organism that has no roots, leaves, flowers or seeds.

Health Benefits

A symbol of longevity in Asia because of their health-promoting properties, Shiitake mushrooms have been used medicinally by the Chinese for more than 6,000 years. Now that their rich, smoky flavor has endeared them to American tastebuds, these exotic hearty mushrooms can be found in supermarket shelves across the U.S.

Invigorate Your Immune System

Recent studies have traced shiitakes’ legendary benefits to an active compound contained in these mushrooms called lentinan. Among lentinan’s healing benefits is its ability to power up the immune system, strengthening its ability to fight infection and disease. Against influenza and other viruses, lentinan has been shown to be even more effective than prescription drugs; it even improves the immune status of individuals infected with HIV, the virus that can cause AIDS.

Promote Optimal Health

Lentinan, which is technically classified as a polysaccharide and referred to as a branched beta-glucan, has also been shown to have anti-cancer activity. When lentinan was given for human gastric cancer, reticular fibers developed in tumor sites. Reticular cells, which are spread throughout the body in various tissues, are immune cells that have the ability to ingest (phagocytose) bacteria, particulate matter, and worn out or cancerous cells. When lentinan was administered, not only was there a proliferation of reticular cells in gastric tumor sites, but many T lymphocytes (another type of immune defender) were drawn to these cancer sites with the result that the cancer cell nests were fragmented and destroyed.

A Hearty Mushroom That’s Good for Your Heart

A large number of animal studies conducted over the last ten years have shown that another active component in shiitake mushrooms called eritadenine lowers cholesterol levels-and this amazing compound lowers cholesterol no matter what types of dietary fats the lab animals are given. Even when lab animals are given dietary protein rich in methionine (an amino acid researchers have found causes an increase in cholesterol formation), eritadenine still lowers plasma cholesterol levels in a dose-dependent manner. In other words, the more eritadenine given, the more cholesterol levels drop.

Shiitake Mushrooms Found to be Top Food Source of Potent Antioxidant

L-ergothioneine, a powerful antioxidant, has been discovered in mushrooms, thanks to a new analytical method capable of identifying this antioxidant in plant material. In research presented at the 2005 American Chemical Society meeting in Washington, D.C., an American research team revealed that mushrooms contain higher concentrations L-ergothioneine than either of the two dietary sources previously believed to contain the most: chicken liver and wheat germ.

Testing mushrooms consumed in the U.S., the team found that shiitake, oyster, king oyster and maitake mushrooms contain the highest amounts of ergothioneine, with up to 13 mg in a 3-ounce serving. This equals forty times as much as is found in wheat germ.

Of the most commonly consumed mushrooms, portabellas and criminis have the most L-ergothioneine, followed by white buttons. White buttons, the most popular of all mushrooms consumed in the U.S., contain up to 5 mg per three ounce serving-12 times as much as wheat germ and 4 times more than chicken liver. And more good news, L-ergothioneine is not destroyed when mushrooms are cooked.

Safety

Shiitake Mushrooms and Purines

Shiitake mushrooms contain naturally-occurring substances called purines. Purines are commonly found in plants, animals, and humans. In some individuals who are susceptible to purine-related problems, excessive intake of these substances can cause health problems. Since purines can be broken down to form uric acid, excess accumulation of purines in the body can lead to excess accumulation of uric acid. The health condition called “gout” and the formation of kidney stones from uric acid are two examples of uric acid-related problems that can be related to excessive intake of purine-containing foods. For this reason, individuals with kidney problems or gout may want to limit or avoid intake of purine-containing foods such as shiitake mushrooms. For more on this subject, please see “What are purines and in which foods are they found?”

Nutritional Profile

Shiitake mushrooms are an excellent source of selenium and a very good source of iron. They are also a good source of protein, dietary fiber and vitamin C.

Hiratake

Hiratke or Oyster mushrooms do not taste like oysters but rather get their name from their resemblance to the shellfish. Oyster mushrooms are among the most abundant of wild mushrooms. They can be found throughout the year, most often on the trunks of dead trees.

Oyster mushrooms are the third largest cultivated mushroom. China, the world leader in Oyster production, contributes nearly 85% of the total world production of about a million tonnes.

Oyster mushrooms are grown in bags of composted sawdust. The bags are sterilized, then inoculated with mushroom spawn (seed) placed inside the bag.

A characteristic of oyster mushrooms is that they have an eccentric (off-centre) stem or sometimes even no stem at all. Oyster mushrooms are very likely the most perishable of mushrooms. They must be kept between 1 and 4 degrees C.

Their colour can vary slightly depending on variety, from pale gray, to light beige, and sometimes pink or yellow. Oyster Mushrooms are similar to the Chanterelle with a more delicate flavor and coloring.

Oyster mushrooms have a subtle flavour and while very popular in Asian dishes can be used in just about any dish that calls for mushrooms. Mature oyster mushrooms are considerably larger and will be chewier but tend to be sweeter and have more flavor.

Oyster mushrooms have been revered for thousands of years as both a food and a medicine in both Eastern and mid-European cultures. Oyster mushrooms are rich in protein, vitamin C, niacin, folic acid and potassium. The protein content varies between 1.6 to 2.5 percent.

Oyster mushrooms contain most of the mineral salts required by the human body. Their niacin content is about ten times higher than any other vegetables and the folic acid in oyster mushrooms helps to cure anemia.

Oyster mushrooms are suitable for people with high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes due to their low sodium/potassium ratio, starch, fat and calorific value.

Oyster mushrooms are a natural source of statin (cholesterol lowering) drugs. Studies have shown that they typically contain 0.4% to 2.7% statins.

Maitake

Maitake is the Japanese name for the edible fungus Grifola frondosa , which is characterized by a large fruiting body and overlapping caps. Maitake has been used traditionally both as a food and for medicinal purposes. Polysaccharide constituents of maitake have been associated in animal studies with multiple bioactive properties. Extracts of maitake mushroom, and particularly the beta-glucan polysaccharide constituent, have been associated with immune modulation in pre-clinical studies, and are hypothesized to exert anti-tumor effects as a result of these immune properties. Human data are limited, and at this time there is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against the use of oral maitake for any indication.

Synonyms

Beta-glucan, cloud mushroom, dancing mushroom, grifolan, Grifon Pro Maitake D Fraction Extract®, king of mushroom, Maitake Gold 404®, MD-fraction, MDF, My-take.

Evidence

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Uses based on scientific evidence

Cancer

Maitake is the Japanese name for the edible fungus Grifola frondosa , which is notable for its large fruiting body and overlapping caps. Maitake has been used traditionally both as a food and for medicinal purposes. Early studies in the laboratory as well as in humans suggest that beta-glucan extracts from maitake may increase the body’s ability to fight cancer. However, these studies have not been well designed, and better research is needed before the use of maitake for cancer can be recommended.

Diabetes

In animal studies, maitake extracts are reported to lower blood sugar levels. However, little is known about the effect of maitake on blood sugar in humans. Immune enhancement

Animal and laboratory studies suggest that beta-glucan extracts from maitake may alter the immune system. However, no reliable studies in humans are available.

Uses based on tradition or theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Antifungal, anti-infective, antitumorigenic, antiviral, arthritis, bacterial infection, diagnostic agent, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, HIV, liver inflammation (hepatitis), weight loss.

Yamabushitake

This is an edible mushroom occurring widely in Japan and China, growing on standing and decayed broadleaf trees such as oak, walnut and beech. It can also cause heart rot in standing trees. Originally collected from the wild, it is now extensively grown artificially on logs and sawdust mixtures making this mushroom available all the year round. It is known in the West as the hedgehog or monkey head fungus and in China as Shishigashida because the fruiting body looks like the head of a lion. When air dried and extracted with hot water it is used extensively in traditional Chinese medicine (Houtou), to promote digestion and general vigour, strength and general nutrition. The polysaccharide from this mushroom have cyto-static effects on gastric, oesophageal, hepatic and skin cancers (Mizuno, 1999;.42 Mizuno et al., 1992). Mycelium produced from several Hericium spp. and then extracted with hot water formed the basis of a sports drink named Houtou that was used in the 11 th Asia Sports Festival (1990) and is believed to have contributed to the remarkable activities of Chinese players!!

It is anticipated that this mushroom will become an important component in future health foods.

Key active constituents

Beta-D-glucans (antitumour)

Himematsutake

Originating from the mountain region of Piedade, Brazil, Royal Agaricus Mushroom (Agaricus blazei Murill) has become quite popular there and in Asia as a medicinal mushroom and also for its use in cancer. Interest was peaked when a much lower occurrence of adult diseases was found in this region. Research done in Japan in 1980′s and 1990′s appears to support these benefits. Studies demonstrate agaricus mushroom’s possible use in recovery from cancer as well as in prevention of the imbalance, while also showing promise for agaricus mushroom’s ability to lower blood glucose, lower serum cholesterol, and lower blood pressure, as well as that of strong immune enhancement. In Brazil, agaricus mushroom is called “Cogmelo de Deus,” mushroom of God.

Bioactivities of royal agaricus medicinal mushrooms.

1.) Agaricus mushroom anti-tumor effects:

immune enhancement, activating macrophage, T-cell and NK-cell, Increasing TNF-a production, inducing cancer cell apoptosis and cytotoxicity.

2.) Agaricus mushroom anti-hyperlipidemia effects:

lowering total cholesterol, increasing HDL-cholesterol and lowering LDL-cholesterol, preventing arteriosclerosis

3.) Agaricus mushroom anti-hepatitis effects:

lowering GOT, GPT, and g-GTP, supporting liver functions.

4.) Agaricus mushroom anti-allergy effects:

immunoregulating effect

5.) Agaricus mushroom anti-aging effects:

eliminating free radicals, preventing the formation of peroxide lipids, improves age-related disorders

Kawaratake

PSK, a high molecular polysaccharide was first isolated from had Coriolus versicolor mushroom in the early 1970′s. The main component of the carbohydrate moiety is aglucose with galactose, mannose, xylose and fucose as minor components. The protein moiety is rich in acidic amino acids and neutral amino acids with basic amino acids n small amounts. The main component unit of the polysaccharide moiety is a beta-glucan with the main chain consisting of β-(1 to 4) glucose polymer branched a positions 3 and 6 of the glucose5.

Studies and safety evaluations in Japan on PSK had demonstrated benefit through a variety of immune actions in human, animal and in vitro research. They had shown PSK activating macrophage and T-killer-cell activity, stimulating lymphocyte counts and balancing helper/suppresor ratios. PSK was found to be useful as a maintenance therapy for patients after their curative surgical operations for colorectal cancer.

Chaga

Chaga, (Inonotus obliquus), also known as cinder conk, is a fungus in Hymenochaetaceae family. It is a parasitic fungus on Birch and other trees. The sterile conk is irregularly formed and has the appearance of burnt charcoal. The fertile fruitbody can be found very rarely as a resupinate (crustose) fungus on or near the clinker, usually appearing after the host tree is completely dead. I. obliquus grows in birch forests of Russia, Korea, Eastern Europe, Northern areas of the United States and in the North Carolina mountains.

Medicinal use

Since the 16th century, there are records of chaga mushroom being used in folk medicine and the botanical medicine of the Eastern European countries as a remedy for cancer, gastritis,ulcers, and tuberculosis of the bones.[citation needed] In 1958, scientific studies in Finland and Russia found Chaga provided an epochal effect in breast cancer, liver cancer,uterine cancer, and gastric cancer, as well as in hypertension and diabetes.[citation needed] Herbalist David Winston maintains that it is the strongest anti-cancer medicinal mushroom.[1] The antimutagenic action of the molecules found in the white part of birch bark where chaga feeds inhibits free-radical oxidation and also induces the production of interferons, which helps induce DNA repair.[citation needed] The substances, contained in white part of birch bark contribute to the decrease of hypoxia and to increase of the stability of organism to the oxygen deficiency, being antihypoxant correcting the metabolism of cells.[citation needed] The anti-cancer properties of betulin or betulinic acid, a chemical isolated from birch trees, is now being studied for use as a chemotherapeutic agent. Chaga contains large amounts of betulinic acid in a form that can be ingested orally, and it also contains the full spectrum of immune-stimulating phytochemicals found in other medicinal mushrooms such as maitake mushroom and shiitake mushroom.[citation needed]

[edit] Research

In 1998 there was a study in Poland that demonstrated Chaga’s inhibiting effects on tumor growth.[2] Noda and colleagues found that betulin seems to work highly selectively on tumor cells because the interior pH of tumor tissues is generally lower than that of normal tissues, and betulinic acid is only active at those lower levels. Fulda et al. found in 1997 that once inside the cells, betulinic acid induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in the tumors.[citation needed] In 2005, I. obliquus was evaluated for its potential for protecting against oxidative damage to DNA in human lymphocytes. The study found that the polyphenolic extract protected these cells against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress.[3] Another study that year found the endo-polysaccharide of Chaga produced indirect anti-cancer effects via immuno-stimulation. The mycelial endo-polysaccharide of I. obliquus was identified as a candidate for use as an immune response modifier and indicate that the anti-cancer effect of endo-polysaccharide is not directly tumorcidal but rather is immuno-stimulating.[4][5] It has also have anti-inflammatory properties.[6] Saitoh Akiko published on the antimutagenic effects of Chaga in 1996, and Mizuno et al. published on the anti tumor and hypoglycemic activities of the polysaccharides from the sclerotia and mycelia of Chaga

Zhu Ling

Zhu Ling can reduce the occurrence rate of B-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl) nitrosamine (BBN)-induced bladder tumors in rats, the number of tumors per rat, the tumor diameter, and the tumor malignity.

Toxicity

Carnogenic test: negative (PPS extract/mice/hypodermic or intraperitoneal injection, 0.5, 50mg/kg daily for 6 consecutive months).

Teratogenic test: negative (PPS/mice/200mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection).(1)

Chemical Composition

Polyporusdextran I; Polyporusteron A, B, C, D, E, F, G; Ergosta-4, 6, 8(14), 22-tetraen-3-one; 25-deoxymakisterone A; 25-deoxy-24(28)-dehydromakisterone A; Ergosta-7, 22-dien-3-one; Ergosta-7, 22-dien-3-ol; Ergosta-5, 7, 22-trien-3-ol; 5a, 8a-epidioxyergosta-6, 22-dien-3-ol; a-hydroxytetracosanoic acid; 3, 4-dihydroxy benzaldehyde; Axungia; Isoleucine; Leucine; Aspartic acid; D-mannose; D-galactose; D-glucose.(2),(3),(4),(5) (6),(7)

Inorganic Chemicals

It contains trace elements, including calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), copper (Cu), sodium (Na), potassium (K), and sulfur (S).

Precautions

Zhu Ling is contraindicated for interior dryness (lest causing injury to yin-fluids). Reported adverse effects of Zhu Ling include skin rashes, dermatitis, transient tinnitus, colporrhagia, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), arthritis, and arthralgia. (8),(9),(10),(11),(12),(13),(14),(15)

Pharmacology

Inhibitory effect on tumors

Zhu Ling can reduce the occurrence rate of B-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl) nitrosamine (BBN)-induced bladder tumors in rats, the number of tumors per rat, the tumor diameter, and the tumor malignity.(16) Experiments show that toxin-L extracted from the ascitic fluid of patients with primary hepatoma can cause notable fat hydrolysis in vitro, inhibit the ingestion functions of rats, decrease the serum zinc levels, and increase the serum copper levels. It has been established that toxin-L can produce neoplastic cachexia, and that polyporus polysaccharides can inhibit toxin-L’s neoplastic cachexia-promoting activities.(17)

Enhancing immunity

Experiments on mice have shown that polyporus polysaccharides can enhance Concanavalin A and bacterial lipopolysaccharide-induced proliferation reactions of splenocytes, increase the number of specific antibody-secreting cells, enhance heterotypic splenocyte-induced hypersensitivity reactions, and enhance the killing capacity of splenotoxic T lymphocytes.(18) Experiments also have shown that polyporus polysaccharides can enhance the phagocytic and bactericidal functions of the human neutrophilic granulocytes,(19) and that it has a dose-dependent and interferon-g (TFN-g)-synergistic effects that promote the production of nitric oxide by the mice’s macrophage.(20)

Anti-mutagenic and antidotal effects

When administered to mice by intraperitoneal injection at 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, and 4.0mg/kg, polyporus polysaccharides have inhibited cyclophosphamide-induced micronucleus formation with inhibition rates of 17.34%, 25.22%, 37.03%, 42.51%, and 55.12%, respectively.(21) Polyporus polysaccharides can also inhibit a cyclophosphamide-induced increase in the MNR of bone marrow PCE (perchloroethylene), and inhibit cyclophosphamide-induced decreases in white and red blood cell counts and hemalbumin (Hb).(22) When used in combination with cisplatin, polyporus polysaccharides can enhance the latter’s inhibitory effect on transplanted S180, Lewis, and H22 tumors in mice, as well as reducing cisplatin’s side effects (e.g., causing a drop in white blood count, atrophy of immune organs, and a reduction in the macrophage’s phagocytic function).(23)

Liver-protecting effect

Experiments have shown that polyporus polysaccharides can lessen carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)- and D-aminogalactose-induced damage to liver tissues, and promote recovery from these damages. It has also promoted the generation of the hepatitis B surface antibody (HbsAb) in guinea pigs and Assamese macaques, and enhanced of the ability of celiac macrophage in normal and injured mice livers to release H2O2.(24),(25) When administered to mice by intraperitoneal injection at 0.25mg per mouse, polyporus polysaccharides have shown to have a moderate inhibitory effect on the expression of hepatitis B surface antigen (HbsAg) in the serum of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-transgenic mice.(26)

Agarikon

Historical records indicate that Agarikon may have been the most important medicinal mushroom of ancient Europe. The earliest preserved record dates to 65 B.C., when it was listed by Greek physician Dioscorides in Materia Medica as a remedy for tuberculosis.

It may be a species of a bygone era.  Agarikon is practically extinct in Europe. Most remaining Agarikon mushrooms are now found in the moist old growth rain forests of western North America.   Fortunately, it can be cultivated, so there is no immediate risk of loosing the genetic material.

There is little modern research on the medicinal use of Agarikon extract but traditional use of this medicinal mushroom included tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) and pneumonia (Bacillus pneumoniae and others).  It’s also been used topically as a poultice to relieve muscle and skeletal pain.

Congruent with this is a report from Poland, listing the historical uses of Agarikon extract to have included lung conditions (coughing, asthma) and rheumatoid arthritis, but also infected wounds and open bleeding.  It is said to have been considered an elixir for long life.

In North America, it is believed that Agarikon extract was used by Native Americans as protection from smallpox and other diseases brought over by the Europeans.  But there is no definite written record of this information.  The Haida Native American mythological tradition also retains a connection between Agarikon and the female creator spirit Raven, and with female sexuality.

Two mentions in modern scientific literature include Agarikon extract with other mushrooms that elicit a strong immune enhancing effect in subjects.

Finally, it should be noted that in spite of its common name synonyms “Quinine Fungus” or “Quinine Conk,” Agarikon does not contain the compound quinine and is not effective in the use against malaria.

Mesima

Phellinus linteus, also known as Sang-Hwang, Mesima or Meshimakobu has long been used in traditional medicine. Mesima is especially rich in beta 1-3 glucans and has been shown to cause increased production of T cells and B cells. Along with increasing white blood cell counts, mesima has also demonstrated an ability to increase the activity of macrophages and natural killer cells.