Scientific name:Lentinus edodes
Constituents:
- Myco-Polysaccharides (beta glucans: lentinan (β-1,3-glucan) & eritadenine)
- Protein, Lipids & Fiber
- Lectins
Medicinal actions:
- Adaptogen
- Anti-cancer
- Antimicrobial
- Hypocholesterolemic
- Immune stimulant
- Immunomodulator
Mechanism of Action & Pharmacology:
- Polysaccharides (β-glucans) are well studied and appear to be primarily responsible for immune modulatory effects on both innate and adaptive immunity. May induce interferon production (thus disrupting viral replication & inhibiting bacterial infection), and upregulate the activity of macrophages, neutrophils, monocytes, natural killer, and dendritic cells. Also act as antigens playing a role in the first step of activation signaling pathways to antigen presenting cells.
- Lentinan has immunomodulatory and anti-tumor effects, and appears to prolong the survival of cancer patients. Researchers working with terminal pancreatic cancer patients who responded positively noted an increase in killer T-lymphocytes and a decrease in levels of interleukin-6, granulocyte colony stimulating factor, and prostaglandin E2.
- Eritadenine is an inhibitor of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase (SAHH) and has demonstrated hypocholesterolemic activity.
Pharmacy:
- As food in soups, stews, broths and stir-frys
- Powdered
Safety & Toxicity Concerns:
- May experience mild diarrhea and digestive disturbance.
Interactions:
- May decrease effectiveness of immunosuppressants.
