Native to East Asia, the shiitake (Lentinula edodes) has been a delicacy in China and Japan for around 2000 years. It lives exclusively on the trunks of dead trees, especially oak, beech and chestnut. The mushroom has a special aroma, slightly reminiscent of garlic. In Chinese traditional medicine, it is considered an elixir of life, refreshing body and soul, because of its health-giving properties.
Shiitake is a common edible mushroom worldwide, the most widely cultivated after chilli and laska. Around 600 000 tonnes are produced annually, predominantly in East Asia. From here it is exported in dried form to about 40 countries around the world. An important source of protein and potassium, its stalk is also rich in zinc. It contains many complex carbohydrates, polysaccharides. All amino acids are found in its body, but it is particularly rich in leucine and lysine.
Almost 14 percent of its dry matter is amino acids, of which almost 40 percent is essential. A whole range of scientific studies have shown that it contains a number of active substances. One of them is lentinan, which boosts the immune system and is now used to make medicines. 100 g of shiitake contains 12.5 g of protein, 1.6 g of fat, 65.5 g of carbohydrates, 5.5 g of fibre, 16 mg of calcium, 200 mg of phosphorus, 0.39 mg of iron and 10 mg of niacin (vitamin B3), and 15.8 percent water.
Good to know
Shiitake mushrooms are an ideal food because they are rich in fibre, low in calories and contain several essential amino acids, enzymes and vitamins. It is a significant source of B vitamins. Noteworthy among its minerals is its high zinc content, which plays a significant role in activating the immune system. If the mushrooms are exposed to sunlight or UV rays, the consumption of 4-5 dried fruiting bodies is sufficient to meet the total daily vitamin D requirement of an adult. This property is particularly beneficial for vegetarians, who often suffer from vitamin D deficiency.
Why is it so miraculous?
The health benefits of shiitake lie primarily in their carbohydrate composition. It has been shown to contain a number of complex carbohydrates, polysaccharides – most notably lentinan – which inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses and even have anti-cancer properties by boosting the immune system. Researchers explain this by the fact that lentinan produces biologically active substances (interferon, interleukin). Is that stimulate the body’s immune system and increase the activity of blood-derived macrophages. This also explains the anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects of mushrooms.
In many hospitals abroad, doctors now give patients shiitake extract alongside chemotherapy for cancerous tumours to reduce the harmful side effects of strong chemicals on healthy tissue and the immune system. Regular consumption of the mushroom (due to its erythadenine content) significantly reduces blood cholesterol levels. Thus protecting against the development of high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, and plays a role in the prevention of strokes.
In Japan, at Tohoku University, shiitake mushrooms have been found to increase insulin production, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. Therefore recommended for diabetics. The detoxifying effect of shiitake mushrooms (due to their thioproline content) should also be highlighted. As they bind carcinogenic nitrites used in food preservation. Shiitake also plays an important role in the macrobiotic diet. Mainly for its action as a mucolytic and for cleansing deposits caused by the consumption of dairy products and animal fats.
Shiitake in powder form
The whole dried body or a tea made from the dried and powdered body is suitable for self-medication. It can also be used to make soup or food. Depending on whether the purpose is preventive or curative, experts recommend a daily dose of 6-16 g of dried mushrooms, equivalent to 60-100 g of fresh mushrooms.
It also works when you’re cold
Domestic experience shows that mushroom consumption can cure colds in a few days. It is an excellent expectorant, expectorant and cough suppressant. Recent scientific trials in Japan and the US have shown that shiitake provides 70 % protection against the influenza A virus.
It is also used to treat stomach ulcers, gout, constipation, various allergies, haemorrhoids, neuralgia and sexual dysfunction. Shiitake mushroom extract has also recently been used in the cosmetics industry. It is recommended for use in various creams to treat inflammation, acne and to slow down the ageing process.
Source: HírTV
