Shiitake

Shiitake (Japanese name for Lentinula edodes, meaning "tree mushroom") is a prized delicacy, but it also has many qualities that make it one of the star products of natural medicine. The properties of shiitake include strengthening the immune system, reducing cholesterol levels and hypertension, and a prebiotic effect that protects the intestinal flora. In capsules, ampoules, or powder, taking shiitake can be a great health ally.

Shiitake properties

The shiitake mushroom has various medicinal benefits that derive from its composition. On the one hand, it contains lentinan, a beta-glucan similar to some cereals, which helps reduce cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. Furthermore, the benefits of shiitake include prebiotic effects, which stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the intestinal flora, improving digestion. Taking shiitake also contributes to strengthening the immune system and has powerful antibiotic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Finally, some studies on the properties of shiitake indicate that it could also be beneficial in preventing cancer and cardiovascular disorders. That is why in traditional Chinese medicine, this fungus is associated with a longer and healthier life.

How to take shiitake

Although fresh shiitake mushrooms can be found quite easily in natural food stores today to prepare different types of recipes, when used medicinally it is preferable to opt for nutritional supplements with shiitake.

The best natural food brands, such as Hifas da Terra, Holistica or Equisalud, offer preparations to take shiitake powder, capsules, tablets or ampoules of shiitake extract.

Being a natural product, the contraindications of shiitake are reduced, although taken in excessive amounts, in some cases this fungus can cause gastrointestinal problems and interact with anticoagulant or liver medications.