Shiitake Mushroom - Standardized Extract (15% Lentinan)

Shiitake Mushroom is believed to build resistance against viruses and stimulate the production of interferon, a protein compound that slows the course of viral infection. Japanese physicians use lentinan when treating people with HIV/AIDS (by injection), and may be beneficial in cases of chronic fatigue syndrome, hepatitis and Lyme's disease. Interferon is also reputed to rein in the blood vessel overgrowth experienced in macular degeneration.

   In regard to immune system stimulation, the glucan polysaccaride, lentinan, in Shiitake Mushrom is said to heighten the production of interleukin, a hormone that stimulates the immune system to produce B-cells that create antibodies and helper T-cells that coordinate the immune response against infectious microbes and cells. It is also thought to build resistance by activating the immune system's lymphokine-activated killer cells (LAK) and natural killer cells (NK) to combat various types of infectious materials and invaders.

   Shiitake is the basis of several extracts including lentinan, and chemically, the sugars in lentinan form a helix that is structurally analogous to the helix of DNA, accounting for many of lentinan's healing properties.

   Japanese researchers have claimed that lentinan may prolong the survival rate or possibly lower the discomforts and/or damage associated with chemotherapy. In addition, it may improve the quality of life, providing substantial relief to patients who have undergone such therapy.

   People with bladder cancer should not use Shiitake (or eat) raw Shiitake Mushrooms. The mushrooms may cause allergic reaction (rare), and high doses may cause temporary diarrhea and abdominal bloating.

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