Lentinula edodes (Shitake mushroom)
Research has shown that this plant has anti‑tumor properties in laboratory mice. These studies, the earliest dating back to 1969, have also identified the polysaccharide lentinan, a (1‑3) ?‑D‑glucan, as the active compound responsible for the anti‑tumor effects. Extracts from shiitake mushrooms have also been researched for many other immunological benefits, ranging from anti‑viral properties to possible treatments for severe allergies. Lenthionine, a key flavor compound of shiitake, also inhibits platelet aggregation, so it is a promising treatment for thrombosis.
This plant is included in many of the Herbactive tonics, for example, HerbShield, BreastShield, Black Salve Strong Internal Tonic, Heart and Circulation Tonic, Cholesterol Tonic.