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Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

Immune · blood sugar

MODERATE EVIDENCEVEGANREAD THE RESEARCH
Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 5 Jun 2026
Last reviewed: May 30, 2026
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Maitake: Immune · blood sugar. A culinary-medicinal mushroom whose D-fraction beta-glucans support immune surveillance and healthy glucose metabolism. Standard dose 2,000 mg extract, taken in the morning, about $26/month. Evidence rating: moderate evidence.

Where to buy

REALMUSHROOMSMaitake Extract120 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.
RECOMMENDED
Real Mushrooms, Maitake
2,000 mg extract · Morning · ~$26/month

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REALMUSHROOMSMaitake Extract120 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.BESTSELLER
Maitake Extract
Real Mushrooms
120 capsules · $30 · ★ 4.7
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HOSTDEFENSEMaitake120 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.PREMIUM
Maitake
Host Defense
120 capsules · $40 · ★ 4.7
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NOWFOODSMaitake60 VEG CAPSDIETARY SUPP.BEST VALUE
Maitake
NOW Foods
60 veg caps · $18 · ★ 4.6
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NUTRICOSTMaitake Mushroom180 CAPSULESDIETARY SUPP.PREMIUM
Maitake Mushroom
Nutricost
180 capsules · $22 · ★ 4.6
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What is Maitake?

Maitake (Grifola frondosa), hen of the woods, is both a prized edible and a medicinal mushroom. Its signature compound, the beta-glucan D-fraction, has been studied for activating immune cells and for supporting healthy blood-sugar and lipid metabolism, with small human trials showing modest improvements in insulin sensitivity. As with other functional mushrooms, a hot-water or dual extract standardized to beta-glucans is far more potent than mycelium grown on grain. Typical intake is 1-3 g of extract daily. It is well tolerated and a reasonable choice for general immune and metabolic support.

WHY IT MATTERS

A culinary-medicinal mushroom whose D-fraction beta-glucans support immune surveillance and healthy glucose metabolism.

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Common questions

What is Maitake?
Maitake (Grifola frondosa), hen of the woods, is both a prized edible and a medicinal mushroom. Its signature compound, the beta-glucan D-fraction, has been studied for activating immune cells and for supporting healthy blood-sugar and lipid metabolism, with small human trials showing modest improvements in insulin sensitivity. As with other functional mushrooms, a hot-water or dual extract standardized to beta-glucans is far more potent than mycelium grown on grain. Typical intake is 1-3 g of extract daily. It is well tolerated and a reasonable choice for general immune and metabolic support.
What is Maitake used for?
Immune · blood sugar. A culinary-medicinal mushroom whose D-fraction beta-glucans support immune surveillance and healthy glucose metabolism.
What is the standard dose of Maitake?
2,000 mg extract, typically taken in the morning. Approximate cost is $26 per month.
How strong is the evidence for Maitake?
Moderate evidence for its primary uses. See the full study list on the research page.

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