COMMON NAME : Shiitake Mycelia extract, lentinus edodes mycelia extract
ACTIVE SUBSTANCESa new peptidomannan, KS-2 a water solubilized lignin derivative,
EPS-3
DESCRIPTION : The Shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes) grows on the trunks or
stumps of trees. The extract of shiitake is a fine tan powder.
BIOCHEMISTRYThe proteins contain all of the essential amino acids, and most
commonly occurring non-essential amino acids and amides. The fatty
acids are largely unsaturated, and shiitake are rich in vitamins
and minerals. Key therapeutic substances are glucans, a major
constituent of the cell walls. Shiitake yields Lentinan, a
beta-1,3-linked glucan polysaccharide with a molecular weight of 1
million.
PHYSIOLOGYThe b-1,3-glucan Lentinan reversed tumor growth when injected in
mice. It acts by stimulating the immune system, rather than by
direct action on the tumor. Because of its large molecular size,
Lentinan is not absorbed efficiently when taken orally, but some is
absorbed. Lentinan activates the alternative complement pathway,
stimulating the macrophages, thus inhibiting tumor growth. It also
may activate interleukin-1 secretion, which helps trigger T
lymphocytes. Shiitake is believed to stimulate interferon
production. Shiitake significantly inhibited the toxic
immunosuppressive effects of cancer drugs such as cyclocy-tidine,
when taken with them. Lentinan restores impaired enzyme activity of
X-proline-dipeptidyl-aminopeptidase in the serum of mice with
tumors. Eritadenine, a purine alkaloid from shiitake, is similar to
nucleotides in structure, and
lowers cholesterol in animal studies.
PROCESSING : The high KS-2 extract is produced by liquid culture fermentation
of Lentinus edodes mycelia, separation of the mycelia by
centrifuge, hot water extraction at 90C., alcohol precipitation of
the water extract, centrifuge separation of the alcohol
precipitate, and evaporation under vacuum. The high KS-2 extract is
a 28:1 concentration; one gram of extract is equivalent to 28 grams
of dried shiitake mycelia.
HISTORICAL USES :
high cholesterol
diseases of the liver such as hepatitis-B and cirrhosis
general immune response support
diabetes (for high cholesterol)
INDICATIONSCancer, high cholesterol, diseases of the liver, such as hepatitis
and cirrhosis, and general immune response support.
DIRECTIONS FOR USEFor general tonification and protection, 875 mg
of a 4:1 extract daily, between meals. Estimate for therapeutic
use: 5 to 15 grams 4:1 extract daily for several months, then taper
back to 1/4 to 1/2 that amount daily, or as recommended by a health
care practitioner. Adjust proportionally for stronger extracts. The
extract is a 4:1 concentration; one gram of extract is equivalent
to 4 grams of dried shiitake.
TOXICITY, CAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONSNone. Shiitake is highly
edible and delicious
