Every Friday, I break down the latest scientific findings on mushrooms and fungi in our weekly newsletter. Here, I’ve compiled all of the latest research on shiitake (Lentinula edodes), starting with our most recent findings.
Epilepsy breakthrough 💜 A 10-year-old girl with severe, drug-resistant epilepsy experienced a 99% reduction in seizures after starting daily supplementation with Naturealm Sacred 7 Mushroom Extract Powder, containing chaga (Inonotus obliquus), cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris), lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus), maitake (Grifola frondosa), reishi (Ganoderma lingzhi), shiitake (Lentinula edodes), and turkey tail (Trametes versicolor). Once having up to 50 seizures a day, she now experiences a drastic reduction, no adverse effects, and remarkable cognitive progress. (Newsletter published: 1/31/25)
Insulin resistance 🍨 Reishi and shiitake (Lentinula edodes) offer polysaccharides and terpenoids that enhance insulin sensitivity, lowering blood sugar, improving metabolic health, and reducing insulin resistance markers by up to 30%. (Newsletter published: 1/24/25)
Probiotic pleasures 🥄 Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) and shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes) act as powerful prebiotics, helping beneficial gut bacteria thrive while suppressing harmful ones like Salmonella and E. coli. Their β-glucans and other fibers enhance digestion, immunity, and overall microbiome balance. (Newsletter published: 1/17/25)
Hybrids 🧬 Scientists created hybrids between oyster and shiitake mushrooms, combining rapid growth and resilience from oysters with diverse traits from shiitakes. Some hybrids achieved up to 97% biological efficiency, a promising solution for higher-yield, stress-resistant mushrooms in commercial farming. (Newsletter published: 1/17/25)
Prostate health 🧬 Shiitake mushroom extract (Lentinus edodes) helped reduce prostate swelling in a study on testosterone-induced enlargement in rats. Over 21 days, it cut harmful oxidative markers in half, boosted protective antioxidants by 70%, and eased inflammation by normalizing key enzymes. (Newsletter published: 12/20/24)
Loves your gut 👅 A new study on shiitake mushrooms revealed that their β-1,6-glucans improve immune function and increase beneficial gut bacteria. (Newsletter published: 12/20/24)
Brain boost 🧠 Ergothioneine-rich shiitake mushroom extract (Lentinula edodes) was found to restore mitochondrial function in aging brain cells, with treated cells showing 70.5% higher membrane potential and 136% more energy production compared to untreated cells. The extract protected neurons through multiple pathways, increasing protective antioxidant genes by 121% and reducing inflammation markers by over 50%. (Newsletter published: 12/13/24)
Sustainable silk dyeing 🌱 Researchers developed a natural dye from discarded shiitake mushroom pins to color silk fabric. The process produced vibrant yellow-red hues, improved fabric durability, and provided antimicrobial and odor-reducing benefits, with a 99.9% reduction in bacteria and 90% deodorization. (Newsletter published: 12/13/24)
Preserving shiitake mushrooms 🩻 X-rays can be used to extend the shelf life of shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes). A 0.5 kGy dose effectively maintained sensory qualities, including flavor and texture, for up to 35 days. The treatment reduced microbial growth, minimized nutrient loss, and preserved key compounds like soluble proteins and phenols. Higher doses (1.0–1.5 kGy) altered the mushrooms’ odor profile, but the 0.5 kGy dose proved ideal for retaining freshness and nutritional value. (Newsletter published: 12/6/24)
Shiitake extraction breakthrough 🪵 Vietnamese scientists found a better way to extract lentinan (the healthy compound) from shiitake mushrooms. While the new ultrasound method pulled out 63% more of the good stuff and cut extraction time from 3 hours to just 6 minutes, some hurdles remain. Temperature control is tricky – even though 65°C (150°F) worked best, researchers noted “heat really matters” and the equipment costs might make it tough for small-scale producers to adopt. (Newsletter published: 11/15/24)
Post-COVID recovery breakthrough 🌱 Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) is a proprietary mushroom extract derived from the mycelia of shiitake (Lentinula edodes). In a clinical study of 12 long COVID sufferers over 30 days, AHCC extract made a significant impact – reducing fatigue scores by 31% and improving cognitive function (brain fog) by 40%. The University of Kansas Medical Center research showed AHCC works at a cellular level, doubling mitochondrial energy production and normalizing immune cells without side effects and offers a natural, science-backed solution for post-COVID recovery. (Newsletter published: 11/8/24)
Promising colon cancer results 🐁 A mixture of shiitake, reishi, maitake, turkey tail, brazilian, giant polypore, oyster, tinder, meshima, and matsutake mushrooms, known as Agarikon Plus, offers new hope for colorectcal cancer patients when combined with conventional chemotherapy. This 10-mushroom extract was combined with the chemotherapy drug 5-fluoroauracil and achieved a remarkable 87.5% survival rate in lab mice, particularly promising given that untreated control groups had a 0% survival rate. Source note: Two of the study authors work for Myko San. (Newsletter published: 11/8/24)
Salty and shiitake in your kitchen 🧂 Shiitake mushrooms produce an enzyme that gets supercharged by salt, creating more savory umami flavor. The enzyme glutaminase becomes up to 32 times more active when salt is present, converting an amino acid called glutamine into the molecule responsible for umami taste at normal cooking salt levels (1-2%). The stem of the mushroom showed even higher activity than the cap and when researchers combined shiitake with garlic (which is rich in glutamine), it produced 18 times more glutamic acid than shiitake alone. This natural method could help reduce the need for artificial flavor additives. (Newsletter published: 11/8/24)
Medicinal Mushroom 101: AHCC vs. Shiitake
AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound) and shiitake mushroom extract powder are related but different. AHCC is a concentrated supplement designed for targeted immune support, while shiitake extract is a general health supplement and food ingredient. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| AHCC | Shiitake | |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Derived specifically from the mycelia (root-like structures) of shiitake mushrooms. | Typically made from the fruiting body, which is the part commonly consumed as food. |
| Production | Undergoes a specialized cultivation and extraction process, including liquid media growth and a proprietary fermentation process. | Obtained through simpler methods such as drying, pulverizing, and extracting with hot water or alcohol. |
| Composition | Contains a unique blend of polysaccharides, particularly alpha-1,4-glucans, not commonly found in regular mushrooms or extracts. | Composed of a wider range of bioactive compounds, including beta-glucans, antioxidants, and sterols. |
| Potency | A standardized product manufactured under strict quality control in Japan. | Composition and potency can vary based on the manufacturer and extraction method. |
| Research Focus | Extensively studied for immune support and cancer-related defense, as well as infection resistance. | Research spans a broader range of benefits, including cardiovascular health and antioxidant properties. |
(Newsletter published: 11/8/24)
Omicron defense 🦠 Scientists screening 15 vegetable and mushroom extracts discovered a powerful new antiviral protein (Shictin) in shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) vesicles that strongly blocks COVID-19 Omicron variant infection with 87 nM potency. The research, using both lab-grown cells and virus samples, found this mushroom lectin binds to viral surface sugars with increasing effectiveness against newer variants – from weak activity against the original strain to strong blocking of Omicron, suggesting mushroom-derived compounds could provide a natural source of antivirals against emerging variants. (Newsletter published: 11/1/24)
Shiitake noods 🍜 Adding 4% shiitake mushroom powder (Lentinus edodes) to noodles created significant health benefits in a new study. The mushroom noodles showed 40.36% reduction in glucose release compared to 62.58% in regular noodles, suggesting better blood sugar control. The fortified noodles had dramatically higher mineral bioavailability – iron (59.22%), zinc (53.29%), and calcium (57.16%). They also demonstrated potent antioxidant activity (82.54% DPPH inhibition) and higher phenolic (59.64 mg/g) and flavonoid (12.56 mg/g) content compared to regular noodles, making them a promising functional food for managing diabetes and nutritional deficiencies. (Newsletter published: 11/1/24)
IBD relief 😌 Mushroom beta-glucans (β-glucans) show potential in treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by modulating immune responses and reducing inflammation. A new study reports up to 50% decrease in intestinal inflammation from lion’s mane and shiitake (Lentinus edodes) β-glucans. These β-glucans stimulate immune cells to better fight off threats, while also blocking pathways that cause excessive inflammation in the body. This dual action helps reduce inflammatory substances that worsen IBD symptoms. (Newsletter published: 10/18/24)
Shiitake growth secrets 🪵 A recent study found that shiitake mycelium grows best at a slightly acidic pH of 5.5 and a warm temperature of 82°F (28°C). These conditions resulted in the fastest mycelial growth and the highest dry matter weight, making them ideal for cultivating shiitake mushrooms. (Newsletter published: 10/18/24)
Shiitake vs. cervical cancer ♀️ A substance from shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) killed up to 57% of cervical cancer cells in lab tests and shrank tumors in mice by 60%, working as well as chemotherapy but without harsh side effects. Combining the mushroom compound with drugs that block cancer cells’ self-protection boosted its effectiveness even further, shrinking tumors by up to 69% in mice. (Newsletter published: 10/11/24)
Shiitake yield boost 🍄 A study found applying liquid calcium between shiitake mushroom flushes increases yields significantly. A 40 ml dose of calcite before the second flush was most effective. This calcium supplementation technique proves viable and efficient for commercial shiitake growers, offering a simple method to enhance productivity. (Newsletter published: 10/11/24)
Kids & inflammation 🧒 A new study dropped a bombshell: chronic low-grade inflammation in children doesn’t just affect physical health, it makes them more likely to face serious mental health challenges like depression and psychosis in early adulthood. But here’s some fungal hope: mushrooms like lion’s mane and shiitake are packed with anti-inflammatory compounds that could help combat this risk, boosting both body and brain health as kids grow up. (Newsletter published: 10/4/24)
Good for your gut 💓 A recent study showed how shiitake (Lentinus edodes), button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus), and lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) are unique in their ability to produce different short-chain fatty acids—acetate, propionate, and butyrate—that support digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote beneficial gut bacteria. (Newsletter published: 9/20/24)
A prebiotic powerhouse 🥣 Using natural solvents and probiotic fermentation, researchers extracted a chitin-glucan complex (CGC) from shiitake mushrooms. The study highlighted CGC’s ability to support gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria, showing a prebiotic score of 118-134% and releasing short-chain fatty acids (up to 9.99 mM). The CGC also demonstrated strong antioxidant properties and structural resilience, making it suitable for nutraceutical-enriched foods. (Newsletter published: 7/12/24)
The therapeutic potential 🌟A study from the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine in Romania and the University of Glasgow found that mushrooms like shiitake and reishi improve gut health. The mushroom compounds boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, which has direct effects on managing diabetes, brain disorders, and cancer. (Newsletter published: 7/28/24)
Myco meat madness 🍜Four new pulled shiitake dishes are coming to Wagamama locations across the U.S. and UK, thanks to a partnership with Australian mushroom-meat makers Fable Food Company. Pulled Shiitake Crispy Otsumami and Edamame, Truffle, and Pulled Shiitake Gyoza? Don’t mind if I do… (Newsletter published: 5/30/24)
Cholesterol, meet your mushroom match
Probiotics vs. prebiotics🩺 Both are necessary for good gut health, but we rarely talk the difference. Probiotics are foods that contain live bacteria, like yogurt. Prebiotics are bacteria that act as food for probiotics. Mushrooms are a known prebiotic with a good track record of keeping cholesterol levels low in quite a few studies.
- Regulators: Low-density lipoprotein (“bad” cholesterol) leads to fatty acid buildup in the arteries, while high-density lipoprotein (“good cholesterol) helps remove bad cholesterol from the bloodstream. Our gut bacteria works to break down cholesterol, influence its creation, and convert that cholesterol into a less absorbable form.
- Mushroom magic: Medicinal mushrooms like reishi, maitake, lion’s mane, and shiitake contain unique compounds that act as prebiotics. Eating mushrooms regularly can help prevent dysbiosis — an imbalance in the gut microbiota linked to high cholesterol.
- All that and then some: Mushrooms are also rich in antioxidants, triglycerides, phenolics, and anti-inflammatory agents, which lower cholesterol levels and help prevent heart disease. These compounds stop the intestine from absorbing as much cholesterol, which is then excreted. 👉️ Read more here. (Newsletter published: 5/28/24)
Do try this at home 🍳Canadian shroomers will soon be able to buy Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, and Oyster mushroom grow kits in Costco stores. (Newsletter published: 5/10/24)
A new toxin found in shiitake shows promise for targeted cancer therapy
New toxin discovered 🔬 Shiitake mushrooms are already world-famous for being tasty and nutritious, but their functional properties are still deeply shrouded in mystery. Researchers were exploring the components of shiitake mushrooms when they discovered a new toxin: edodin.
- Ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) ❗ Edodin is part of a class of compounds that can stop cells from making proteins, leading to cell death. They disable a cell’s ribosomes, which are responsible for creating proteins. Without protein production, the cell dies.
- Um, shouldn’t we be worried? 😲RIPs like edodin are a natural defense mechanism for plants, fungi, and bacteria. These compounds sound concerning but actually might be beneficial.
- Sharpshooters 🧬 RIPs kill cells very selectively. This makes them a potential targeted cancer therapy, where only specific cells are eradicated and healthy cells are spared.
- Super picky 👨🔬Edodin is especially unique in that it only affects the ribosomes of mammals. This level of selectivity is rare in chemotherapy drugs, which often affect both cancerous and healthy tissues alike and lead to numerous side effects.
👉️ Read more about shiitake mushrooms here. (Newsletter published: 5/8/24)
So long, sawdust 🌱New research found that wheat straw (supplemented with 20% wheat bran by weight) is the most effective substrate for shiitake mushrooms. (Newsletter published: 4/26/24)
Got shiitake? Let’s cook! 🍽 Homegrown shrooms or not, check out this raw vegan pho recipe that uses shiitake instead of meat. Prep work is super simple on this one! (Newsletter published: 4/26/24)
No shiitake? Shiitake mushrooms can alter the flavor of Huangjiu, a Chinese rice wine, by providing nutrition for helpful bacteria and boosting fermentation. (Newsletter published: 3/29/24)
Aging well with the help of shiitake
Recent research published by a group of scientists at Universiti Malaya in Malaysia is a huge leap forward in understanding how oxidative stress affects aging and how powerful natural antioxidants are, especially those found in shiitake mushrooms.
🧠 The study’s methodology
- Researchers analyzed 14 different mushroom types to measure their ergothioneine levels using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Ergothioneine is a potent antioxidant that combats oxidative stress, a major contributor to aging.
- After identifying mushrooms with high ergothioneine, extracts were prepared and applied to neuronal brain cells in a lab setting to simulate aging.
- The brain cells underwent tests to assess cell viability, observe changes linked to aging, and check for oxidative stress.
💡 The results
- Shiitake mushrooms had the highest ergothioneine concentrations.
- Shiitake extract improved brain cell viability, reduced oxidative stress, and showed decreased signs of aging.
- The findings suggest protective benefits of shiitake mushrooms against brain aging.
Anti-aging research is topic that grows more important with each generation. We’re living longer as “evidenced by the life expectancy from 66.8 years in the year 2000 to 73.4 years in 2019,” per the study. With an aging population comes age-related diseases, especially neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Read more about the study. (Newsletter published: 12/6/23)
What are shiitake mushrooms?
Shiitake mushrooms, scientifically known as Lentinula edodes, are a popular edible mushroom native to East Asia. Renowned for their rich, savory taste and meaty texture, shiitake are a staple in various Asian cuisines, from Japanese to Chinese dishes.
Shiitake are not just prized for their flavor but also for their health benefits. They have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to support immune health, boost longevity, and improve circulation. Modern research supports these traditional uses, indicating that shiitake mushrooms can help enhance the immune system, reduce cholesterol levels, and may even have anti-cancer properties.
Cultivated on hardwood logs or sawdust, shiitake mushrooms are also commercially grown worldwide, making them widely available for culinary and medicinal purposes. Whether fresh or dried, shiitake mushrooms offer a versatile ingredient for a range of dishes, enhancing flavor while providing substantial health benefits.
Read more about shiitake mushrooms’ culinary uses, health benefits, and cultivation techniques.
