Shiitake mushrooms are an edible variety of mushroom native to China, particularly known for their healing properties. The mushrooms themselves are brown and fleshy with a curved cap that can grow anywhere between 5 to 25cm in diameter. The shiitake mushroom has been cultivated in Asia for well over 1000 years – there is record of its growth as early as 1000AD, and is now the third most widely produced mushroom in the world. The shiitake mushroom has been used as a symbol of longevity in Asian countries due to its health-promoting properties.

Polysaccharide is an effective active ingredient extracted from selection of Shiitake mushroom fruit body , its scent, nutrient-rich, efficacy significantly, can be used as all kinds of health care products, food and spices added ingredients.

Shiitake mushrooms contain fat, carbohydrate, protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. However, it’s key component is called Shiitake mushrooms polysaccharide. Shiitake mushrooms polysaccharide is extracted from the crushing mycelium of mushroom, which is rich in polysaccharides and lignin. It is used as an intravenous anticancer agent in some countries. Studies have demonstrated lentinan possesses antitumor properties, and human clinical studies have associated Shiitake mushrooms with a higher survival rate, higher quality of life, and lower recurrence of cancer. 

Products name: Shiitake Mushroom Extract

Synonyms: Lentinus edodes Extract; Chinese black mushroom Extract; oak mushroom Extract

Plant source: Fruit body of Glossogyne Tenuifolia Cass

Active Ingredient: Polysaccharides

Characteristics: Brown fine powder

Specifications

1> Polysaccharide 10-50%   UV

2> Extract Ratio 5:1 or customized

Functions and Benefits

1. Reduce blood cholesterol levels;

2. Possessed anti-bacterial properties;

3. Possessed anti-viral properties;

4. Anti-cancer, anti-tumor;

5. Prevent blood pressure increase;

6. Stimulate the immune system; 

7. Thrombosis Prevention.

Side effect

Most minor adverse effects are believed to be caused by lentinan, the polysaccharide derivative of shiitake. There has been one report each of depression, rigor, fever, chills, and abnormal blood cell counts; elevated liver enzymes were reported in one study following treatment with lentinan in cancer patients.

Shiitake can cause abdominal discomfort and abnormal blood cell counts when taken by mouth. Abdominal obstruction and death was reported due to the ingestion of a whole shiitake mushroom. Temporary diarrhea and abdominal bloating may occur after taking high amounts of shiitake. Mushroom workers exposed to shiitake spores by inhalation have experienced hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

Rapid IV infusion of lentinan, the polysaccharide derivative of shiitake, to advanced cancer patients was reported to cause anterior chest depression and dryness of the throat in one study; slow infusion relieved these symptoms. Back pain and leg pain has been reported following the administration of lentinan in cancer patients. Shiitake can cause "shiitake" dermatitis and possibly photosensitivity when taken by mouth. Allergic contact dermatitis has been induced by shiitake hyphae.

Applications:

1. It can be used as a nutritional supplement;

2. It can be used as a Functional food and food additive.