


Metabolic Balance
Known for its rich, earthy flavor and powerful health properties, Maitake has been a staple of Japanese and Chinese herbal medicine—valued for its ability to balance blood sugar, support immunity, and promote metabolic health.


Adaptive Metabolism
And today, modern research validates those traditional uses: Maitake’s bioactive β-glucans have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation, help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and boost immune function at the cellular level by activating macrophages and natural killer cells.
May support DNA protection and reduce oxidative stress.
In C. elegans, Maitake extract significantly decreased oxidative stress markers and lipofuscin accumulation, indicating enhanced cellular protection and repair mechanisms.
May protect liver function and aid detoxification.
In hyperlipidemic rats, Maitake supplementation inhibited hepatic fat deposition and lowered serum cholesterol, phospholipids, and triglycerides while maintaining healthy HDL cholesterol levels.
May improve lipid profiles and support weight management.
In C. elegans, Maitake extract reduced fat accumulation, lowered reactive oxygen species, and extended lifespan by activating the DAF-16/FOXO and SKN-1/NRF2 pathways, suggesting benefits for energy metabolism and healthy aging.
May support the body’s natural defenses against cancer.
In tumor-bearing mice, oral administration of soluble β-glucans from Maitake activated dendritic cells via dectin-1, boosted tumor-specific T-cell infiltration, reduced immunosuppressive cell populations, and inhibited tumor growth.
May support heart health by lowering LDL and triglycerides.
Dietary Maitake fiber increased fecal cholesterol excretion in rats, leading to significant reductions in total cholesterol and VLDL + IDL + LDL levels compared to controls.
May stimulate immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells.
In cancer patients, oral Maitake D-Fraction was shown to boost natural killer (NK) cell activity and suppress tumour marker expression, indicating enhanced immune surveillance.
May help regulate blood glucose and improve insulin sensitivity.
In a streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rat model, the Maitake SX fraction significantly lowered circulating glucose and enhanced insulin sensitivity compared to controls.
May help the body manage physical and emotional stress.
A review of Maitake’s bioactive polysaccharide complexes reports modulation of key stress-response and homeostatic pathways, potentially helping to balance cortisol and other stress hormones.
Don’t just take our word for it—our Maitake benefits are backed by extensive white paper research and real clinical data.