Maitake Mushroom
Overview
Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa), also known as "hen of the woods," is a medicinal mushroom valued for its immune-supporting properties. It is particularly rich in beta-glucans, with the D-fraction being a well-studied extract that has shown immune-modulating effects in research. Maitake contains polysaccharides that may support immune cell function and help modulate inflammatory responses. The mushroom is also valued for its culinary properties, with a rich, earthy flavor and meaty texture. Maitake may support blood sugar regulation and metabolic health through its bioactive compounds.
Food Context
Sourcing
- Store fresh mushrooms in the refrigerator
Preparation
- Can be consumed fresh or dried; fresh maitake has a superior texture and flavor
- Cooking enhances flavor and may improve bioavailability of some compounds
- Can be sautéed, roasted, or added to soups and stews
- Extracts may provide more concentrated beta-glucans, particularly the D-fraction
Recipes
Nutrient Tables (per 100 g)
Core nutrients
| Nutrient | Amount per 100 g | % RDA per 100 g |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 31 kcal | — |
| Protein | 2.2 g | — |
| Total fat | 0.3 g | — |
| Carbohydrates | 6.6 g | — |
| Fibre | 3.1 g | — |
Key micronutrients
| Nutrient | Amount per 100 g | % RDA per 100 g |
|---|---|---|
| Iron | 0.2 mg | 1.2% |
| Zinc | 0.8 mg | 6.9% |
| Magnesium | 11 mg | 2.6% |
| Selenium | 3.3 µg | 5.9% |
| Calcium | 0 mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 260 mg | 7.6% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg | 4.2% |
Bioactive compounds
Values below are often from specialist compositional databases or literature, not the standard USDA panel. Asterisks (*) refer to source notes at the bottom of this section.
| Compound / class | Amount per 100 g | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ALA | 1616 mg | — |
Note: Bioactive-compound values vary substantially by cultivar, species, cocoa or oil percentage, processing, and brand formulation. Show quantitative values only where a defensible source exists; otherwise prefer qualitative presence statements or ranges in source notes.
Substances
Substances in this food: editorial (Overview / literature) plus analytical (nutrition table).
9 substances in this food
Beta-Glucans
Polysaccharides with immune-modulating properties found in mushrooms and other foods
Vitamin B3 (Niacin; Niacinamide)
NAD+ precursor; supports mitochondrial biogenesis and ATP production
Iron
Oxygen transport; dopamine synthesis (tyrosine hydroxylase cofactor)
Zinc
Cofactor in neurotransmission and antioxidant enzymes; dopamine modulation
Magnesium
Enzymatic cofactor (>300 reactions); neurotransmitters; mitochondria; redox balance
Selenium
Antioxidant enzyme cofactor (GPx); supports redox balance
Potassium
Electrolyte for nerve transmission, muscle function, and blood pressure regulation
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine → PLP)
PLP cofactor for neurotransmitter synthesis; relies on brain PDXK activation
ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid)
Essential omega-3 precursor; limited conversion to DHA/EPA
References
- Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) is rich in beta-glucans, particularly the D-fraction extract
- Research suggests immune-modulating properties through polysaccharide content
- May support blood sugar regulation and metabolic health
- Valued for both culinary and medicinal properties