Lentinula Edodes (Shiitake Mushroom): Benefits and Warnings

The world of fungi is vast and fascinating, but few mushrooms captivate both chefs and health enthusiasts like the shiitake mushroom, also known as Lentinula edodes. Renowned for its rich flavor and impressive health benefits, shiitake mushrooms have been utilized for centuries in traditional medicine and umami (savoy) flavor enhancer in daily Asian cooking. This post will explore the historical use, bioactive components, and health benefits of shiitake mushroom extract, along with warnings and potential side effects.

Historical Use

Shiitake mushrooms, or Lentinula edodes, have roots in ancient China and Japan, where they were prized culinary ingredients and revered for their health-enhancing properties. Traditional healers believed that shiitake mushrooms could enhance longevity, boost energy levels, and improve overall health. Today, modern science is beginning to validate many of these traditional uses.

In 2023, Dr. Hobbs at the Institute for Natural Products Research, at the University of Massachusetts reported that purified shiitake extracts, shiitake mycelium extract, and lentinan have been used as approved clinical usages in Japan and China since the late 1960s. Over 400 published journal articles are available and over 30 clinical studies[18].

It is very common to use dried shiitake mushroom slices or convenient savoy powder, sometimes blended with the umami extract of kelp and bonito in Japanese cooking recipes. Shiitake mushrooms contain high levels of glutamate, an amino acid responsible for the umami taste. For example, miso soup and hot noodle recipes use shiitake mushroom slices to enhance the savory flavor. Zesty shiitake mushroom pasta is a very easy recipe for anyone to make at home. Below are the ingredients and cooking instructions.

 Ingredients:

  • Fettuccine noodles
  • Fresh shiitake mushrooms
  • Garlic
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Lemon zest
  • Fresh basil
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Cook the fettuccine noodles as per the package instructions.
  2. Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add sliced shiitake mushrooms.
  3. Add lemon zest and fresh basil.
  4. Toss the cooked noodles with the mushroom mixture.
  5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving if you like

You could cook sliced fresh shiitake mushroom with olive oil, sliced garlic, and sea salt until browned. You can add them to salads as additional protein or serve them as a side dish.

Dried shiitake mushrooms are not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Below are the typical nutritional facts for a 3.6-gram serving of dried shiitake mushrooms[8]:

  • Calories: 11
  • Total Fat: 0g (0% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 0.5mg (0% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 2.7g (1% Daily Value)
    • Dietary Fiber: 0.4g (1% Daily Value)
    • Sugars: 0.1g
  • Protein: 0.3g (1% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin D: 0.1mcg (1% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 0.4mg (0% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 0.1mg (1% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 55mg (1% Daily Value)

Dried shiitake mushrooms are also a good source of several B vitamins, including riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), and pantothenic acid (B5), as well as minerals like copper and selenium[8].

How to Select Quality Shiitake Mushroom Extract

When shopping for shiitake mushroom extract, quality is paramount. Here are some tips to ensure you select the best product:

  • Look for Organic Certification: Choose organic shiitake mushroom extract to avoid pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
  • Check the Source: Opt for USA-grown shiitake mushrooms to ensure you’re getting a product from a reputable source.
  • Fruiting Body vs. Mycelium: Ensure the extract contains parts from both the mushroom's fruiting body and mycelium, as each has a unique bioactive compound beneficial for health.
  • Third-Party Testing: Verify that the product has been tested for purity and potency by independent laboratories.

Bioactive in Shiitake Mushroom Fruiting Body

The fruiting body of the shiitake mushroom contains a wealth of bioactive compounds, including[4][5][6][7]:

  • Polysaccharides and beta-Glucans (lentinan) for immune enhancing effects.
  • Glycoprotein for cellular health. Glycoproteins are proteins that have glycans covalently attached to amino acid side chains. Glycoproteins play vital roles in various immune responses.
  • Terpenoids and Eritadenine for healthy cholesterol levels.
  • Phenolic compounds for antioxidants and healthy inflammatory response
  • Nucleotides for healthy blood pressure levels

Bioactive in Shiitake Mushroom Mycelium

The mycelium, the root-like structure of the mushroom, also houses important bioactive[1]{2}[3][4][7][10][11][12]:

  • Active Hexose Correlated Compound: It is rich in alpha-glucan and derived from mycelium, Polysaccharides in active hexose correlated compound is researched for immune health. There are human clinical studies to evaluate the quality of life for patients dealing with serious pancreas and breast health issues.
  • Oligosaccharides for prebiotics. It feeds beneficial bacteria for a healthy gut microbiome. Oligosaccharides in Shiitake also enhance mineral absorption.
  • Enzymes and antioxidants: Contribute to cellular health and repair.

Lentinula Edodes Benefits

What is shiitake mushroom good for? Below are three primary health benefits of Shiitake mushroom:

Immune Support

One of the most celebrated benefits of shiitake mushroom extract is its ability to bolster the immune system. Studies suggest that compounds like lentinan, beta-glucans, and active hexose correlated compound may enhance the activity of immune cells, providing robust defense mechanisms against pathogens and unhealthy cells[1][2][3][6][7][9][10][12][13][14][17].

Digestive Health

Another exciting area of research is the prebiotic activity of shiitake mushroom. Prebiotics fibers, polysaccharides like beta-glucans, and oligosaccharides in shiitake mushrooms may help improve gut health. [4][6][7][17]

Cardiovascular Health

Shiitake mushrooms are also associated with improved cardiovascular health. Compounds like terpenoids and eritadenine can help support healthy cholesterol levels, thus supporting heart health. Regular consumption of organic shiitake mushroom extract may significantly benefit those with high cholesterol or other heart-related issues.[7][15][17]

Shiitake Mushroom Extract Side Effects

While shiitake mushroom extract offers numerous benefits, it is essential to be aware of potential side effects and warnings[17]:

  • Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or respiratory issues.
  • Digestive Issues: Overconsumption can lead to stomach upset, bloating, or diarrhea.
  • Medication Interactions: If you are on blood thinners or immune-suppressing drugs, consult with a healthcare provider before adding shiitake mushroom extract to your routine.

Specific to shiitake mushroom dosage, it’s crucial to follow recommended guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

How Much Shiitake Mushroom Extract Per Day

It ranges from 1 to 3 grams per day.

3 to 6 grams per day may be used for specific health conditions.

We recommend you consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new shiitake mushroom extract supplement to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs.[17]

Conclusion

Incorporating shiitake mushroom extract into your wellness routine can offer a host of health benefits, from boosting your immune system to enhancing digestive health. However, selecting high-quality, USA-grown organic shiitake mushroom extract products that include both the fruiting body and mycelium for maximum efficacy is crucial. Please check out Mushroom Ekismate, which contains extracts of both organic shiitake mushroom fruiting body and mycelium, along with extracts of six more functional mushroom species.

References

  1. Yanagimoto H, Hirooka S, Yamamoto T, Yamaki S, Sekimoto M. Efficacy of Lentinula edodes Mycelia Extract on Chemotherapy-Related Tasted Disorders in Pancreatic Cancer Patients. Nutr Cancer. 2023;75(1):236-246. doi: 10.1080/01635581.2022.2107226. Epub 2022 Aug 11. PMID: 35950537.
  2. Nagashima Y, Yoshino S, Yamamoto S, Maeda N, Azumi T, Komoike Y, Okuno K, Iwasa T, Tsurutani J, Nakagawa K, Masaaki O, Hiroaki N. Lentinula edodes mycelia extract plus adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer patients: Results of a randomized study on host quality of life and immune function improvement. Mol Clin Oncol. 2017 Sep;7(3):359-366. doi: 10.3892/mco.2017.1346. Epub 2017 Jul 25. PMID: 28811898; PMCID: PMC5547768.
  3. Tanigawa K, Ito Y, Sakai M, Kobayashi Y. [Evaluation of quality of life and immune function in cancer patients receiving combined immunotherapy and oral administration of lentinula edodes mycelia extract]. Gan To Kagaku Ryoho. 2012 Nov;39(12):1779-81. Japanese. PMID: 23267884.
  4. Fernandes A, Nair A, Kulkarni N, Todewale N, Jobby R. Exploring Mushroom Polysaccharides for the Development of Novel Prebiotics: A Review. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2023;25(2):1-10. doi: 10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2022046837. PMID: 36749052.
  5. Majumdar S, Negi PS. Extraction of chitin-glucan complex from shiitake (Lentinula edodes) fruiting bodies using natural deep eutectic solvents and its prebiotic potential. Int J Biol Macromol. 2024 Jul;273(Pt 1):133046. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133046. Epub 2024 Jun 8. PMID: 38857726.
  6. Xu X, Yang J, Ning Z, Zhang X. Lentinula edodes-derived polysaccharide rejuvenates mice in terms of immune responses and gut microbiota. Food Funct. 2015 Aug;6(8):2653-63. doi: 10.1039/c5fo00689a. Epub 2015 Jul 2. PMID: 26135107.
  7. Łysakowska P, Sobota A, Wirkijowska A. Medicinal Mushrooms: Their Bioactive Components, Nutritional Value and Application in Functional Food Production-A Review. Molecules. 2023 Jul 14;28(14):5393. doi: 10.3390/molecules28145393. PMID: 37513265; PMCID: PMC10384337.
  8. Nutritionvalue.org - Shiitake Mushroom 
  9. Zhang M, Zhang Y, Zhang L, Tian Q (2019) Mushroom polysaccharide lentinan for treating different types of cancers: a review of 12 years clinical studies in China. Prog Mol Biol Transl Sci 163:297–328
  10. Gaullier JM, Sleboda J, Øfjord ES, Ulvestad E, Nurminiemi M, Moe C, Tor A, Gudmundsen O (2011) Supplementation with a soluble β-glucan exported from Shiitake medicinal mushroom, Lentinus edodes (Berk.) singer mycelium: a crossover, placebo-controlled study in healthy elderly. Int J Med Mushrooms 13:319–326
  11. Yamaguchi Y, Miyahara E, Hihara J (2011) Efficacy and safety of orally administered Lentinula edodes mycelia extract for patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy: a pilot study. Am J Chin Med 39:451–459
  12. Kamiyama T, Orimo T, Wakayama K, Kakisaka T, Shimada S, Nagatsu A, Asahi Y, Aiyama T, Kamachi H, Taketomi A (2022) Preventing recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after curative hepatectomy with active hexose-correlated compound derived from Lentinula edodes mycelia. Integr Cancer Ther 21:15347354211073066
  13. Kosaka A, Wani T, Hattori Y, Yamashita A. [Effect of lentinan administration of adrenalectomized rats and patients with breast cancer]. Gan To Kagaku Ryoho. 1982 Aug;9(8):1474-81. Japanese. PMID: 6764117.
  14. Dai X, Stanilka JM, Rowe CA, Esteves EA, Nieves C Jr, Spaiser SJ, Christman MC, Langkamp-Henken B, Percival SS. Consuming Lentinula edodes (Shiitake) Mushrooms Daily Improves Human Immunity: A Randomized Dietary Intervention in Healthy Young Adults. J Am Coll Nutr. 2015;34(6):478-87. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2014.950391. Epub 2015 Apr 11. PMID: 25866155.
  15. Spim SRV, Pistila AMH, Pickler TB, Silva MT, Grotto D. Effects of Shiitake Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Lentinus edodes (Agaricomycetes), Bars on Lipid and Antioxidant Profiles in Individuals with Borderline High Cholesterol: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2021;23(7):1-12. doi: 10.1615/IntJMedMushrooms.2021038773. PMID: 34375514.
  16. Venturella G, Ferraro V, Cirlincione F, Gargano ML. Medicinal Mushrooms: Bioactive Compounds, Use, and Clinical Trials. Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Jan 10;22(2):634. doi: 10.3390/ijms22020634. PMID: 33435246; PMCID: PMC7826851.
  17. Christpher H., The Health and Clinical Benefits of Medicinal Fungi, Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol (2023) 184: 285–356, https://doi.org/10.1007/10_2023_230
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