Share this article:

Abstract

Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) MDfraction containing beta-1,6 glucan with beta- 1,3 branched chains has previously exhibited strong anticancer activity by increasing immune-competent cell activity.1,2 In this nonrandom case series, a combination of MD fraction and whole maitake powder was investigated to determine its effectiveness for 22- to 57-year-old cancer patients in stages IIIV. Cancer regression or significant symptom improvement was observed in 58.3 percent of liver cancer patients, 68.8 percent of breast cancer patients, and 62.5 percent of lung cancer patients. The trial found a less than 10- 20 percent improvement for leukemia, stomach cancer, and brain cancer patients. Furthermore, when maitake was taken in addition to chemotherapy, immune-competent cell activities were enhanced 1.2-1.4 times, compared with chemotherapy alone. Animal studies have supported the use of maitake MD fraction for cancer. (Altern Med Rev 2002;7(3):236-239)

Share this article: