Organic Shiitake mycelia
Also known as: Shiitake mycelia, Shiitake mushroom mycelia, AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound), Shiitake extract, Lentinula edodes mycelia
Overview
Shiitake mycelia are the vegetative part of the Shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes), cultivated for their bioactive compounds. These mycelia are rich in beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and can be a source of vitamin D2 when exposed to UV-B irradiation. Supplementation is primarily explored for immune modulation, antiviral effects (particularly against HPV), and vitamin D enhancement. Research includes randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, focusing on immune effects and vitamin D bioavailability. While evidence for antiviral effects is emerging, it remains limited. Shiitake mycelia extracts, such as AHCC, are also used for their potential immune-enhancing properties. The quality of evidence varies, with some studies being preliminary or having small cohorts, necessitating further large-scale research.
Benefits
Shiitake mycelia offer several potential health benefits. UV-B irradiated Shiitake mycelia significantly improve serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels in vitamin D-deficient adults, comparable to commercial vitamin D2 supplements. Extracts like AHCC may reduce HPV viral load and promote clearance of HPV infections, suggesting immune-enhancing properties, although more extensive research is needed. Beta-glucans from Shiitake mycelia may support general immune function. Adults with vitamin D deficiency and individuals with persistent HPV infections may benefit most from supplementation. Studies show statistically significant increases in serum 25OHD and viral load reduction, but larger-scale effect size data is still required.
How it works
The mechanism of action for Shiitake mycelia varies depending on the intended benefit. UV-B irradiation converts ergosterol in the mycelia to vitamin D2, which is then absorbed and metabolized in the body. Beta-glucans activate innate immune cells like macrophages and NK cells via pattern recognition receptors, enhancing cytokine production and antiviral responses. AHCC may enhance immune clearance of HPV-infected cells by boosting cellular immunity. Vitamin D2 from irradiated Shiitake is bioavailable, and beta-glucans exert systemic immunomodulatory effects primarily via gut-associated lymphoid tissue.
Side effects
Shiitake mycelia extracts and irradiated Shiitake products are generally well-tolerated. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Rare allergic reactions are possible but not well-documented. No significant drug interactions have been reported, but caution is advised with immunosuppressants due to the immune-stimulating effects. Contraindications include known allergy to mushrooms. Safety in pregnancy and children is not well-established, so use with caution in these populations. Overall, the safety profile is favorable based on available clinical studies, but monitoring for potential allergic reactions and interactions is recommended.
Dosage
Dosage recommendations vary depending on the specific product and intended use. For vitamin D2-enriched Shiitake, one sachet of irradiated Shiitake soup powder per week has been shown to provide effective vitamin D2 doses. For AHCC (Shiitake mycelia extract), clinical trials for HPV have used daily doses around 3 grams, although optimal dosing requires further validation. Vitamin D2-enriched products can be taken weekly, while AHCC is typically administered daily. UV-B irradiated Shiitake powder or soup is recommended for vitamin D, and standardized mycelia extracts (AHCC) are recommended for immune support. Fat-containing meals may enhance vitamin D2 absorption. Vitamin D3 status and calcium intake may influence overall vitamin D efficacy.
FAQs
Can Shiitake mycelia cure HPV?
No, current evidence suggests potential for viral load reduction and immune support, but not a cure for HPV. More research is needed to fully understand its effects.
Is Shiitake mycelia supplementation safe long-term?
Available data indicate good short-term safety; however, long-term studies are limited. Consult with a healthcare professional for extended use.
How quickly does vitamin D improve with Shiitake?
Significant serum 25OHD increases have been observed within 5 weeks of consistent supplementation with UV-B irradiated Shiitake products.
Are all Shiitake products equal?
No; UV-B irradiation is necessary to enhance vitamin D2 content. Standardized extracts are needed for consistent immune effects. Check product labels carefully.
Are there any contraindications?
Known allergy to mushrooms is a contraindication. Caution is advised for individuals on immunosuppressants due to the immune-stimulating effects of Shiitake mycelia.
Research Sources
- https://academic.oup.com/ijfst/article/60/1/vvaf073/8090544 – This randomized, triple-arm, placebo-controlled trial (n=53) demonstrated that UV-B irradiated Shiitake soup significantly increased serum 25OHD levels in vitamin D-deficient adults over 5 weeks, comparable to commercial vitamin D2 supplements. The study highlights the potential of Shiitake mushrooms as a natural source of vitamin D2, although the sample size was relatively small and the duration was short.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2309-608X/10/2/153 – This review article on medicinal mushrooms highlights the complexity of multicomponent mixtures like Shiitake mycelia extracts and their immunomodulatory potential. It emphasizes the need for standardized preparations and further clinical trials to fully understand and harness the therapeutic benefits of these mushrooms.
- https://www.dl.begellhouse.com/journals/708ae68d64b17c52,7157a84928f91612,3b3025c722e6c487.html – This source discusses the immunomodulatory effects of beta-glucans, a key component of Shiitake mycelia. It details how beta-glucans activate immune cells and enhance antiviral responses, contributing to the potential health benefits of Shiitake supplementation, particularly in supporting immune function.
- https://www.phytoceutics.com/exploring-the-potential-of-shiitake-mycelia-extract-in-the-treatment-of-hpv/ – This article explores the potential of Shiitake mycelia extract, specifically AHCC, in the treatment of HPV. It references small clinical trials that have demonstrated reductions in HPV viral load and some clearance of infections over months, suggesting immune enhancement, but emphasizes the need for larger, more rigorous studies.
- https://thassim.ac.in/assets/pdf/Academics/Syllabi/Microbiology/2022%20-%202023/2-Microbiology-132-263.pdf – This syllabus provides background information on the microbiological aspects of Shiitake mushrooms, including their cultivation and composition. It serves as a general reference for understanding the biological context of Shiitake mycelia and their potential applications.