The see-what-you-get one
Fruiting-body extract listing beta-glucan content
Shows how much of the active compounds you're getting.
Good for: Immune support
What variations of maitake exist?
A frilly, edible mushroom rich in beta-glucans that stimulate the immune system. Early studies also look at blood sugar. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
Medical Disclaimer
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
Every form, in plain words
The see-what-you-get one
Fruiting-body extract listing beta-glucan content
Shows how much of the active compounds you're getting.
Good for: Immune support
The concentrated one
Standardized fractions (D-fraction, MD-fraction)
Strong extracts used in some studies. Usually cost more.
Good for: Immune support
Usually skip
- Mostly grain (Mycelium grown on grain)Often mostly grain starch, with fewer active compounds.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'Fruiting-body extract listing beta-glucan content' on the label (the see-what-you-get one)
Watch out for
- No beta-glucan (the main active compounds) percentage listed
- 'Myceliated grain' or 'mycelium biomass' as the main ingredient
Check with your provider first if…
- You have an autoimmune condition. Because it revs up the immune system, ask your provider first.
- You take medicines that calm the immune system
- You take diabetes medicine (your blood sugar could drop too low)
- You take warfarin or another blood thinner. Ask your provider first.
- You're having chemotherapy or other cancer treatment. Check with your oncologist first.
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding: not well studied
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.