Shiitake - Japanese Wood-Ear Mushroom

DIGESTION & PROTECTION

Double extraction | Full spectrum of active compounds | Organic cultivation

Shiitake is one of the most valued mushrooms in Far Eastern tradition. It supports the immune system, helps regulate cholesterol levels and blood pressure, and may serve as supportive aid in prevention and in counteracting certain conditions. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Shiitake has a neutral nature and beneficially influences the function of the spleen, stomach, and lungs.

INGREDIENTS

• Concentration: 15,000 mg in 30 ml
  
• Ingredients: Double water-alcohol extract 25%, organic Shiitake spores (Lentinula edodes), macerate

PRACTICAL USES

• Lowering “bad” cholesterol and improving the lipid profile

  • In several randomized studies involving adults with elevated cholesterol, taking 10 g of powdered fruiting bodies daily for 4–6 weeks reduced LDL-C and total cholesterol by 5–10%.

  • Key compounds: eritadenine and β-glucans that help regulate fat metabolism.

• Supporting the immune system

  • The polysaccharide lentinan increases the activity of NK cells and macrophages (confirmed in in vitro and animal studies).

  • In healthy volunteers, a daily portion of 5–10 g of dried mushroom for 4 weeks increased salivary immunoglobulin A and reduced inflammatory markers (pilot clinical study, n ≈ 50).

• Mild liver protection and antioxidant activity

  • Animal models of liver injury induced by alcohol or chemicals showed reduced transaminase activity after supplementation with Shiitake extract.

  • This effect is associated with increased glutathione and SOD levels.

• Supporting the gut microbiota

  • In mouse studies, dietary Shiitake increased beneficial Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus populations and improved gut barrier integrity; clinical human data are still limited.

OTHER APPLICATION THEMES

• Candidiasis, cold prevention, fatigue.
• Significant antiviral activity (especially when paired with Coriolus).
• Stimulates gut flora development, supports the digestive system and the liver.
• Supports efforts against joint diseases (inflammation, degeneration) and helps reduce cholesterol levels.
• Hepatoprotective activity, caries prevention, support during HIV therapy.
• Supports efforts against allergies and has a strengthening effect on the body.

TCM CHARACTERISTICS

• Temperature: neutral
• Taste: sweet
• Tropism: spleen, stomach, lungs

ACTIONS ACCORDING TO TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

• Tonifies Qi and nourishes the blood (Bu Qi, Yang Xue) – supports vitality, helps regain strength faster after illness, and eases chronic fatigue.
• Strengthens the spleen (Jian Pi) and harmonizes the stomach (He Wei) – supports digestion and reduces fullness, bloating, and indigestion.
• Transforms dampness and phlegm (Hua Tan, Qu Shi) – helpful with excess mucus in the respiratory tract, feelings of heaviness, and elevated cholesterol.
• Strengthens Wei Qi and consolidates the exterior (Gu Biao) – supports natural resistance to external factors; traditionally used during infection and cold season.
• Detoxifies and clears toxins (Jie Du) – traditionally used in mild food-related poisonings and in formulas that support liver protection against toxins.
• Calms the Shen spirit – reduces irritability, supports winding down before sleep, and helps maintain emotional balance during stress.
• Invigorates blood circulation (Huo Xue) and unblocks meridians – sometimes included in formulas supporting relief of rheumatic pain and improving nourishment of bones and joints.

DOSAGE

20 drops daily

• Before use, consultation with a doctor or a TCM therapist is recommended.
• Start with a smaller amount (e.g., 5–10 drops) and gradually increase to the full dose over one week.
• After the first week of use, take a weekend break (Saturday–Sunday).
• After one month of regular use, take a one-week break.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• This product is not intended for children under 3 years of age, pregnant women, or breastfeeding women.
• It should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet.
• Store at room temperature, out of reach of small children.

Synergy of adaptogenic mushrooms – key duos and their health benefits

Chaga + Cordyceps (natural energy and physical performance)

Maximum training performance: Cordyceps supports ATP synthesis, improves oxygen transport, and supports circulation, which directly contributes to better athletic performance. Chaga helps neutralize free radicals, reduces fatigue, and supports faster muscle recovery.

Together, Chaga + Cordyceps work like a bioactive “power pack” – supporting the immune system and providing long-lasting, caffeine-free vitality.

Chaga + Lion’s Mane (mental sharpness and stable energy)

Mind at full speed: Hericium (Lion’s Mane) supports NGF and BDNF production, supporting neuroregeneration, focus, and memory. Chaga complements the set with clean, steady energy and strong antioxidant support.

An ideal base for mushroom coffee – motivation, clear thinking, and none of the “nervous kick” associated with caffeine.

Chaga + Reishi (vitality, calm, and longevity)

Holistic support for the body: Chaga supports metabolic processes and immune resilience, while Reishi helps calm the nervous system, supports blood pressure balance, and promotes deep sleep.

This duo provides energy without a later drop in form and supports oxidative stress reduction – a recipe for healthy, active longevity.

Chaga + Shiitake (natural immunity booster)

Immune shield ON: Betulin derivatives (Chaga) and lentinan (Shiitake) support macrophages and NK cells, strengthening the body’s ability to respond to pathogens.

Synergistic beta-glucans and antioxidants support cellular protection against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Chaga + Coriolus (microbiome, digestion, and immunity)

Healthy gut = strong body: PSP/PSK from Coriolus support beneficial gut flora, while Chaga helps soothe digestive inflammation and supports epithelial recovery.

Chaga + Coriolus combine prebiotic polysaccharides with antioxidant protection, strengthening the body’s natural immune barrier.

Cordyceps + Lion’s Mane (muscle strength and a clear mind)

Two levels of energy: Cordyceps supports physical endurance by promoting ATP production, while Hericium supports cognition and memory by supporting NGF synthesis.

This combination is often chosen by athletes and creative professionals – physical and mental performance in one.

Cordyceps + Reishi (adaptogenic energy and stress support)

Energy in balance: Cordyceps supports natural “fuel,” while Reishi helps calm the nervous system, reduce tension, and support immunity.

This duo supports vitality without overheating the system – ideal during prolonged stress.

Cordyceps + Shiitake (performance, recovery, and immunity)

Turbo recovery: Cordyceps supports oxygenation of muscles, while Shiitake provides beta-glucans and amino acids needed for tissue rebuilding and exercise-related immune support.

A natural lift before training and faster recovery afterward — without synthetic stimulants.

Adaptogenic mushroom schedule according to the TCM organ clock

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
Hours 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)
Hours 9:00–11:00 – spleen–pancreas, time to build Qi energy and immunity.
Best as a “morning tea.”
Once daily, in the morning.

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

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Hours 21:00–23:00 – triple burner, preparation for sleep.
Ideal time for calming and regeneration.
Once daily, in the evening.

Amanita muscaria (fly agaric, microdosing)
Hours 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 guidelines
Keep at least 1–2 hours between different mushrooms.
Cordyceps and Chaga can be combined in the morning or early afternoon.
Reishi always in the evening, preferably solo.
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 SHIITAKE

• Yu S., Wu X., Ferguson M. et al. “Diets Containing Shiitake Mushroom Reduce Serum Lipids and Serum Lipophilic Antioxidant Capacity in Rats”. The Journal of Nutrition (2016)
  Aim: To evaluate the effects of 5% and 10% dried Shiitake in rat diets for 8 weeks on lipid profiles and fat oxidation.
  Findings: Shiitake reduced total cholesterol, VLDL + LDL fractions and triglycerides, increased HDL, and decreased liver fat accumulation. This confirms hypolipidemic effects linked to eritadenine and β-glucans.
• Spim S.R.V., Pistila A.M.H., Pickler T.B. et al. “Effects of Shiitake Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Lentinus edodes, Bars on Lipid and Antioxidant Profiles in Individuals with Borderline High Cholesterol: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial”. Int. J. Med. Mushrooms (2021)
  Aim: A 4-week double-blind clinical trial using bars containing 10 g Shiitake daily in individuals with borderline hypercholesterolemia.
  Findings: Statistically significant reductions in LDL-C and total cholesterol, increased antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, GPx), and no adverse effects. This indicates Shiitake’s potential in cardiovascular prevention.
• Roszczyk A., Turło J., Zagożdżon R., Kaleta B. “Immunomodulatory Properties of Polysaccharides from Lentinula edodes”. Int. J. Mol. Sci. (2022)
  Aim: A review of in vitro and in vivo studies on Shiitake polysaccharides (including lentinan) and their effects on immune response.
  Findings: Polysaccharides activate macrophages, NK cells, and T lymphocytes, increase cytokine production (IL-2, IFN-γ), and inhibit tumor proliferation in animal models. This highlights Shiitake’s role as a natural immunomodulator supporting anti-cancer and anti-infective approaches.

Shiitake supports the immune system and may help regulate cholesterol levels. In TCM terms, it has a neutral nature and supports the spleen and stomach, while also contributing to healthy energy (Qi) levels and digestive support.

This natural product is offered for its historical and ethnographic value and is supplied without any express or implied fitness for a particular purpose. It is simply a raw botanical specimen or a scientific sample. The information provided is intended exclusively 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 are at the customer’s own decision, responsibility, and risk.
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