Anti Cancer Effects of Maitake Mushroom

From my colleague Marty Eisen, LAc:

Research by Hiroaki Nanba, Ph.D., a professor of microbial chemistry at Kobe Pharmaceutical University in Japan, shows that one powerful mushroom can be used to treat cancer. Dr. Nanba administered Maitake mushroom to cancer patients. The patients took no anticancer drugs. Yet the mushroom helped to halt the cancer’s progression. Memorial Sloan-Kettering is one of the world’s premier cancer centers. Their experts are also recognizing the anticancer effects of this mushroom. They’ve completed trials that show it helps breast cancer patients.
 
Researchers found that this mushroom had anti-tumor effects also enhances immune function. Maitake also contains a highly-concentrated cancer-fighting compound known as D-Fraction. According to a 2009 study published the Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology, Maitake D-Fraction activates cells that help fight cancer and other health dangers. This includes T-helper cells, which direct your immune system to focus exactly where it’s needed most, macrophages, which engulf and consume cellular debris while keeping cells healthy, and natural killer (NK) cells that target tumor cells and destroy them.

Among the cancer patients Dr. Nanba treated, 86.4 percent saw an increase in NK cells. Maitake D-Fraction also suppresses production of other immune cells and so brings your immune system into perfect balance. Dr. Nanba says this potent substance is most effective against breast, liver and lung cancer.

Maitake can be found in health food stores. Look for formulas that combine Maitake powder and D-fraction.  Maitake D-fraction is available in both liquid and tablet form. A recommended formula yields at least 15 mg of D-fraction and 500 mg of Maitake powder.  You can also try the dried mushroom itself. Experts suggest a daily dose of 3-7 grams.



Photo: frakenstoen, Flickr Creative Commons 2.0