The benefits of Shiitake are derived from polysaccharide lentinan, which seems to boost the body’s immune response, increasing immunity, longevity, blood circulation, and liver health. Multiple studies have identified lentinan as an effective treatment of cancer and, as such, has been used in conventional oncology therapies. These studies observed Lentinan having significant effects on the reduction of cancerous tumours, elimination of cancer cells, and the restoration of chromosomes damaged by cancer cells. In Asia, the results of various clinical trials showed significant increases in the life expectancy of patients when chemotherapy was used in conjunction with lentinan. This indicates that lentinan potentially relieves the negative side-effects of chemotherapy; improving not only patient longevity, but also quality of life.
Likewise, the other major healing compounds residing in the Lentinula Edodes Mycelium (LEM), including lentin, lanthionine, and lentinosin, protect against cell damage and boost the production of white blood cells, working as an antibiotic. All major healing compounds found in the LEM increase bone marrow cell formation; these cells are the building blocks of the body’s immune system. Shiitake also naturally contains large quantities of copper, which helps in the creation of red blood cells, supporting healthy blood vessels and bones. As Shiitake aids bone health, it can relieve osteopenia and osteoporosis-like symptoms due to its ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight. In addition to bone related conditions, Shiitake can relieve the effects of viral infections, such as HIV, by preventing cell damage and the proliferation of viral cells.
Shiitake’s immune boosting qualities are not only due to its polysaccharides but also to its large quantities of vital nutrients. Containing vitamin B2, B6 and B12 Shiitake is a good substitute for animal protein, making it an excellent superfood for vegans and vegetarians. Shiitake also contains a lot of potassium, which balances the cardiovascular system by releasing sodium from the kidneys, maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, 33% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B5 is contained within 4 dried Shiitake mushrooms. Vitamin B5 helps lower cholesterol and the body’s ability to produce energy from fats. These vital nutrients are but a fraction of what is contained within the Shiitake mushroom, as also it contains high quantities of Phosphorus, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Riboflavin, and Selenium, to name a few.
