Shiitake
Lentinula edodes
Shiitake contains lentinan, a beta-glucan approved as a pharmaceutical anti-cancer drug in Japan since 1985. Lentinan enhances T-cell and NK cell activity and shows clinical benefit in gastric and colorectal cancer when combined with chemotherapy. AHCC (derived partly from shiitake) is widely used for cancer immune support.
Medicinal Properties
Cancer Types Studied
Recommended Dosage
5–10 g dried mushroom daily in food, or 3 g AHCC extract daily.
Preparations
Cooked Shiitake in Meals
5–10 g dried or fresh shiitake in soups, stir-fries, or broths daily. Cooking required to break chitin walls.
AHCC Supplement
3 g AHCC daily on empty stomach. Most clinically studied form for cancer immune support.
NIH / PubMed Research
Links open on PubMed (National Library of Medicine). Research is ongoing — results may not reflect clinical use.
Cautions & Interactions
- Raw shiitake can cause 'shiitake dermatitis' — always cook thoroughly
- May thin blood — caution with anticoagulants
- Digestive upset possible in high amounts
- Avoid if allergic to mushrooms
Related Herbs
Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before use.