Maitake (Hen of the Woods)

IMMUNITY AND METABOLISM

Dual extraction | Full spectrum of active compounds | Organic cultivation

Maitake (Grifola frondosa), commonly known as “hen of the woods” and in Japan as the “dancing mushroom”, is a highly regarded functional mushroom. It stands out for its high content of polysaccharides (including β-glucans) and fractions studied for immune support and metabolic balance (including D-fraction and fractions discussed in the context of insulin resistance). It is most often associated with immunomodulation, support for digestive function, and processes related to glucose and lipid metabolism.

INGREDIENTS

• Concentration: 15,000 mg in 30 ml
• Ingredients: Dual hydro-alcoholic extract 25%, organic Maitake fruiting bodies, macerate

PRACTICAL USE

• Immune support (immunomodulation) - β-glucan polysaccharides may support the body’s natural defense mechanisms and help maintain a balanced immune response.
• Glucose metabolism and insulin resistance - Maitake is often chosen when working on stable energy and glycemic balance; in clinical studies, Maitake fractions have been evaluated, among others, in people with insulin-resistance-related disturbances.
• Lipid profile and cardiovascular support - Maitake’s bioactive compounds (polysaccharides, sterols) are discussed in the literature in relation to lipid metabolism support and overall metabolic health.
• Recovery and quality of life during periods of weakness - in clinical research, Maitake D-fraction has been evaluated as support during intensive treatment periods (including quality-of-life outcomes).
• Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity - the complex profile of active compounds may support cellular protection against oxidative stress and the inflammation that can accompany it.

Other potential benefits

• May support maintaining a healthy body weight as part of a metabolism-focused lifestyle.
• Sometimes used as a supportive element during periods of lowered immunity and seasonal infections.
• May support the microbiome and gut function, indirectly influencing immunity and metabolic balance.
• Discussed in the literature in the context of supporting liver function and detoxification processes.
• May support vitality and reduce “metabolic fatigue” resulting from dietary strain and stress.
• In Asian traditions, associated with longevity and “nourishing the center” (digestion/metabolism).
• May be chosen as part of “metabolic” prevention (lifestyle, diet, activity, sleep).
• In preclinical research, discussed in the context of blood pressure and vascular support.
• May support exercise-related immunity (post-workout recovery, immune balance).
• May support well-being during daytime energy fluctuations (metabolism and nervous system interplay).

Characteristics according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

• Temperature: neutral
• Taste: sweet (mild)
• Meridian affiliation: spleen and stomach (“the center”); in some approaches also lungs, kidneys and/or large intestine

Expanded actions in TCM

1. Strengthens the “center” (Pi/Wei)
   • Supports digestion and the production of Qi energy, translating into better “metabolic capacity”.
2. Dries dampness and supports fluid metabolism
   • Traditionally linked to reducing “accumulated dampness”, which is sometimes associated with a feeling of heaviness and sluggishness.
3. Supports immunity (Wei Qi)
   • From an energetic perspective, it may strengthen the body’s protective barrier.
4. Tonifies the kidneys and supports vitality
   • Traditionally chosen by people during periods of weakness and reduced energy.
5. Calms the spirit (Shen)
   • Supports emotional balance during stress, which often “disrupts” metabolism and digestion.

DOSAGE

20 drops daily

• Consult a doctor or a TCM practitioner before use.
• Start with 5-10 drops, gradually increasing the dose during the first week.
• After one week of use, take a weekend break (Saturday-Sunday).
• After one month of continuous use, introduce a one-week break, then repeat the cycle.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Do not use in children under 3 years of age, pregnant women, or breastfeeding women.
• Store at room temperature, out of reach of small children.

Synergy of adaptogenic mushrooms - the most important duos and their effects

Chaga + Cordyceps (energy and physical endurance)

Synergy for power and performance: Pairing Chaga with Cordyceps is an ideal option for active people. Cordyceps supports energy production in mitochondria, improves oxygen utilization and circulation, which translates into better conditioning and training results. Chaga, in turn, helps reduce the feeling of fatigue, provides strong antioxidant support, and promotes faster tissue recovery.

Importantly, this duo also supports immunity - it provides a natural, caffeine-free boost of vitality while simultaneously supporting the immune system. In other words, Chaga + Cordyceps offers clean energy and a solid protective barrier.

Chaga + Lion’s Mane (energy and mental clarity)

Synergy for vitality and focus: Combining Hericium (Lion’s Mane) with Chaga connects cognitive support with stable energy. Hericium is known for supporting memory, focus, and mood, while Chaga provides steady, “clean” energy and helps protect cells from oxidative stress.

The result is motivation and clarity without the nervousness typical of caffeine. This duo is often used in “mushroom coffee” to support both body and mind in a balanced way.

Chaga + Reishi (vitality and stress reduction)

Synergy for immunity and balance: Chaga - a “king” of antioxidants - supports energy and immunity, while Reishi - a valued “queen” of adaptogens - soothes the nervous system, supports stress resilience, and promotes healthy sleep.

Together, they provide an energy lift without a later "crash" and help ease tension. The blend delivers antioxidants and polysaccharides, supporting cellular protection and immune balance at the same time.

Chaga + Shiitake (immune synergy)

Synergy for immunity: Chaga, rich in betulinic derivatives, and Shiitake, rich in lentinan, can complement each other by supporting white blood cell activity, strengthening the body’s natural protective barrier and helping reduce recurrent infections.

This duo provides a mix of beta-glucans and antioxidants, creating a true “immune shield” that helps protect cells from oxidative stress and pathogens.

Chaga + Coriolus (digestive health and immunity)

Synergy for the gut and immunity: Coriolus provides PSP/PSK polysaccharides with prebiotic effects, while Chaga supports mucosal comfort and helps soothe inflammation. Together they support the microbiome and strengthen immunity following the principle “healthy gut - strong body”.

Chaga + Coriolus is a versatile combination - it supports the digestive tract, helps calm inflammation, and strengthens immunity thanks to a high content of antioxidants and beta-glucans.

Cordyceps + Lion’s Mane (physical and mental energy)

Synergy for body and mind performance: Cordyceps supports ATP levels, endurance, and reduced fatigue, while Hericium supports NGF pathways, benefiting memory and concentration.

Cordyceps + Hericium provides long-lasting energy during exertion and sharper thinking - a great match for intense physical and intellectual work.

Cordyceps + Reishi (energy and stress-fatigue reduction)

Synergy for vitality and calm: Cordyceps supports vitality and energy, while Reishi helps maintain nervous system balance, supports tension reduction, and strengthens immune resilience.

This pairing helps you feel energized without feeling depleted - Cordyceps adds drive, and Reishi stabilizes the stress response, supporting long-term recovery and immune protection.

Cordyceps + Shiitake (endurance and recovery)

Synergy for endurance and renewal: Cordyceps supports oxygen utilization and muscle recovery, while Shiitake provides beta-glucans that support exercise-related immunity and valuable amino acids needed for tissue rebuilding.

As a result, Cordyceps + Shiitake provides a natural energy lift before training and faster recovery after exercise - without synthetic stimulants.

Cordyceps + Coriolus (vitality and immunity)

Synergy for protection and energy: Cordyceps supports immune response and energy levels, while Coriolus - thanks to PSP/PSK - strongly supports immune modulation. Together they help protect against infections and support regeneration.

Cordyceps + Coriolus is a duo that supports both vitality and the body’s defense line, helping you bounce back faster after illness or intense exertion.

Lion’s Mane + Reishi (nervous system, mood, and sleep)

Nootropic + anti-stress synergy: Hericium supports neurogenesis and mental performance, while Reishi supports stress balance, relaxation, and deeper sleep.

This combination supports mental clarity together with calm - ideal during periods of intense intellectual work or prolonged stress.

Lion’s Mane + Shiitake (brain and immunity)

Synergy for cognition and a protective barrier: Hericium provides erinacines and hericenones that support neurons, while Shiitake provides lentinan that supports immune activity. The result is combined support for brain function and the immune system.

Hericium + Shiitake is therefore a comprehensive blend for better memory, focus, and stronger immunity.

Lion’s Mane + Coriolus (brain, immunity, and gut)

Synergy for the gut-brain axis: Hericium supports the digestive mucosa and nerve growth, while Coriolus supports the microbiome and helps reduce inflammation. Together they support cognition, immunity, and gut health.

Hericium + Coriolus is a dynamic duo supporting focus, mood, and digestive health, which translates into better well-being and immunity.

Reishi + Shiitake (immune support and overall health)

Immunomodulating and wellness synergy: Reishi supports overall balance and calm, while Shiitake, rich in B vitamins and amino acids, supports the liver and the cardiovascular system.

This duo supports immunity, protects against oxidative stress, and promotes healthy sleep - Reishi + Shiitake is a natural formula for homeostasis and longevity.

Reishi + Coriolus (immunity and anti-inflammatory effect)

Synergy for the immune system: Reishi supports immune activity and stress adaptation, while Coriolus - thanks to its polysaccharides - offers prebiotic and anti-inflammatory support. Together they can support a faster return to balance.

Shiitake + Coriolus (double immune “boost”)

Synergy for immunity and recovery: Lentinan from Shiitake and PSK/PSP from Coriolus support immune cell activity, offering a double layer of support against viruses and bacteria.

Shiitake + Coriolus is a natural “turbo” for immunity - supporting recovery, vitality, and healthy aging thanks to antioxidant richness.

Maitake + Shiitake (immunity and metabolism)

Metabolic-immune synergy: Maitake is especially valued in the context of metabolic balance (energy, glucose regulation, and the “center” in TCM terms), while Shiitake is known for powerful polysaccharides that support immunity and overall protection.

Together, they form a duo for people who want to strengthen the immune barrier while supporting metabolism - especially during periods of stress load, dietary strain, and energy dips. Maitake + Shiitake is an “intelligent shield” for immunity and stable vitality.

Adaptogenic mushroom intake schedule according to the TCM body clock

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
7:00-9:00 - Stomach, the best time to support digestion and the nervous system.
On an empty stomach or right after a light breakfast.
1-2 doses daily, at least 6 hours apart.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
9:00-11:00 - Spleen-Pancreas, the time of building Qi energy and immunity.
Best as a “morning tea”.
Once daily, in the morning.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis / militaris)
15:00-17:00 - Urinary Bladder, Yang energy is still high.
Supports performance, energy, and kidneys.
1-2 times daily (morning and afternoon), not too late in the evening.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
21:00-23:00 - Triple Burner, preparation for sleep.
An ideal moment for calming and recovery.
Once daily, in the evening.

Amanita muscaria (fly agaric, microdosing)
5:00-7:00 - Large Intestine, cleansing and nervous system regulation.
In small morning doses as a nervous-system reset.
Daily or every 2-3 days, depending on sensitivity.

General rules
Keep at least a 1-2 hour gap between different mushrooms.
Cordyceps and chaga can be combined in the morning or early afternoon.
Reishi always in the evening, preferably on its own.
Amanita only in the morning, never at night.
Most mushrooms can be taken daily; Amanita is better used in cycles every few days.

In-depth articles about individual Adaptogenic Mushrooms

Chaga

Reishi

Coriolus

Shiitake

Lion’s Mane

Cordyceps

SCIENTIFIC STUDIES ON MAITAKE

• Deng G., Lin H., Seidman A. et al. “A phase I/II trial of a polysaccharide extract from Grifola frondosa (Maitake mushroom) in breast cancer patients: immunological effects”. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol (2009)
  Aim: To evaluate the safety and immunological effects of an oral Maitake polysaccharide extract in 34 breast cancer patients after treatment.
  Findings: No dose-limiting toxicity was observed; measurable changes in immune parameters were reported (complex, dose-dependent activity).
• Chen J.T., Kuei C.H. et al. “Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) extract induces ovulation in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome…”. J Altern Complement Med (2010)
  Aim: To evaluate a Maitake fraction (MSX/SX-fraction) for ovulation induction in patients with PCOS (insulin-resistance context), compared to and/or combined with clomiphene.
  Findings: MSX showed activity toward ovulation induction (alone and as supportive therapy), suggesting potential applications of Maitake in metabolic-hormonal balance.
• Hu Q., Xie B. “Effect of Maitake D-fraction in advanced laryngeal and pharyngeal cancers during concurrent chemoradiotherapy: A randomized clinical trial”. Acta Biochimica Polonica (2022)
  Aim: To assess the effect of Maitake D-fraction on the frequency of severe adverse events and quality of life during CCRT.
  Findings: The intervention group reported a lower frequency of severe adverse events and improved quality-of-life outcomes compared with placebo.

Maitake supports immunity and metabolic balance - it works in multiple directions, combining immunomodulatory potential with a traditional focus on the “center” (digestion/metabolism).

This natural product is offered for its historical and ethnographic value and is supplied without any expressed or implied suitability for a particular purpose. It is simply a raw botanical specimen or a scientific sample. The information provided is intended solely for historical, scientific, and educational purposes and should not be interpreted as a recommendation for any specific use. The use and application of our product is at the customer’s own decision, responsibility, and risk.
Terms and Conditions