Botanical Overview
Grifola frondosa, commonly known as Maitake, Hen of the Woods, or Sheep’s Head, is a medicinal mushroom belonging to the family Meripilaceae. It is native to regions of North America, Asia, and Europe. The therapeutically used part is the fruiting body.
Energetics
This mushroom presents a neutral temperature with moistening moisture quality. Its taste profile includes bitter and umami flavors. The energetics align with a descending directionality and a tonifying effect primarily nourishing the qi.
Primary Actions
- Immunomodulator
- Antioxidant
- Antihypertensive
- Antidiabetic
- Antitumor
Indications
Western
- Fatigue
- High blood pressure
- High blood sugar
- Immune deficiency
- Mild inflammation
Syndromes
- Hypertension
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cancer adjunct therapy
- Immunodeficiency
TCM
- Spleen qi deficiency
- Lack of appetite
- Fatigue
Syndromes
- Spleen qi deficiency syndrome
- Dampness accumulation
Ayurveda
No traditional Ayurvedic uses recorded.
Unani
No traditional Unani uses recorded.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemical families include beta-glucans, polysaccharides, ergosterols, phenolic compounds, and vitamin D2. These contribute to its immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and metabolic regulatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Extracts standardized to beta-glucans 100-300 mg daily
- Powder 3-6 g daily in divided doses
- Tincture 1:5 40% 2-5 mL 1-2x daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally considered safe with mild digestive upset reported occasionally. Caution is advised in autoimmune disorders or if using immunosuppressants. Safety during pregnancy and lactation is not established; thus, use is not recommended.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers documented for Grifola frondosa.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and pharmacological studies of Grifola frondosa – Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2019)
- Medicinal properties of Maitake mushroom – Mushrooms: Cultivation, Nutritional Value, Medicinal Effect, and Environmental Impact (2004)
- Grifola frondosa – Plants For A Future Database
- Grifola frondosa in Traditional Chinese Medicine – Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica (2004)