Maitake is the rare functional mushroom you might also find at a farmers market. Known as hen of the woods, it's a frilly, flavorful culinary mushroom, and its beta-glucan extracts have been studied in small human trials. Here's what that research found, what it didn't, and who should be careful.
Written by Vita Globe Editorial Team | Reviewed against Memorial Sloan Kettering and NIH guidance and peer-reviewed clinical research
What are the benefits of maitake mushroom?
Maitake is a nutritious culinary mushroom traditionally used in Asia for blood sugar and blood pressure[1]. Small human studies of maitake beta-glucan extracts found changes in immune markers[2], and some studies suggest possible blood-sugar-lowering effects[1]. It may interact with warfarin and diabetes medications[1].
Caveat: Changes in lab immune markers aren't the same as proven health outcomes, and trials have been small.
Sources: MSK Maitake · Deng 2009 · Verified 2026-09-27
IN THIS ARTICLE
What is maitake?
Maitake (Grifola frondosa) grows in large, ruffled clusters at the base of trees, usually oaks. Its English nickname, hen of the woods, comes from its resemblance to a nesting bird's feathers. Memorial Sloan Kettering describes it as a nutrient-rich edible mushroom that's widely eaten in Asia and used in traditional medicine for diabetes and high blood pressure[1]. The National Cancer Institute lists it among the many mushrooms used in Asian traditional practice[3].
The compound researchers focus on is a protein-bound beta-glucan. Specific extracts called the D-fraction and MD-fraction have been developed and studied[1].
What does the research say about maitake and the immune system?
The most detailed human study is a phase I/II trial at Memorial Sloan Kettering. Thirty-four postmenopausal women who had completed breast cancer treatment and were disease-free took an oral maitake polysaccharide extract twice daily for three weeks, at one of five dose levels[2].
The researchers found a statistically significant link between maitake and measures of immune function, but the pattern wasn't simple: some intermediate doses boosted certain immune markers while others suppressed them, compared with both higher and lower doses[2]. There were no dose-limiting toxicities, and two participants withdrew because of mild side effects[2]. MSK also notes a study in myelodysplastic syndrome, a blood disorder, in which maitake enhanced certain white blood cell functions[1].
What this tells us: maitake extracts do something measurable to the immune system in people. What it doesn't tell us: that the changes translate into fewer illnesses or better health outcomes, or that a healthy person taking a supplement would see the same effect. The trials used a specific extract in specific patient groups.
Does maitake affect blood sugar?
Maitake's traditional use for diabetes has prompted research on blood sugar, and MSK notes that studies suggest possible blood-sugar-lowering effects in people with type 2 diabetes[1]. The evidence isn't strong enough to recommend maitake for blood sugar management.
The practical takeaway is actually about safety: because maitake may lower blood sugar, combining it with diabetes medication could add to their effect[1]. If you have diabetes, talk to your provider before taking maitake supplements.
| Area | What's been studied | How strong |
|---|---|---|
| Immune markers | Beta-glucan extract in breast cancer survivors and MDS[1][2] | Small trials; lab markers, not outcomes |
| Blood sugar | Studies in type 2 diabetes[1] | Preliminary |
| Nutrition | Whole culinary mushroom | A healthy food choice |
The honest summary
- Maitake is a nutritious edible mushroom with a long traditional history.
- Small trials of its beta-glucan extracts show measurable immune changes, but not proven health outcomes.
- Blood sugar effects are possible, which is a caution if you take diabetes medication.
- It may raise INR with warfarin; check with your provider.
Who should be careful with maitake?
- People on warfarin: maitake has been reported to raise INR, a measure of how long blood takes to clot[1].
- People on diabetes medications: possible additive blood-sugar lowering[1].
- People in cancer treatment: talk with your oncology team first.
- Anyone with a mushroom allergy.
MSK also lists asymptomatic eosinophilia (a raised count of one type of white blood cell) as a reported reaction[1]. The NIH recommends telling all your healthcare providers about the supplements you take[4]. For more, see our guide to mushroom gummy side effects.
Is eating maitake different from taking it as a supplement?
Yes. Cooking and eating maitake is a great way to enjoy it as food. Supplements concentrate specific parts or extracts, and research extracts like the D-fraction are standardized in ways most retail products aren't. If a product lists beta-glucan content, look for testing that separates true beta-glucans from starch, since a total "polysaccharides" number can include both[5]. For how maitake sits alongside other species in a blend, read what's actually in a 10-mushroom complex gummy.
Our option
Vita Globe Mushroom Complex Gummies – Pouch
We don't sell a maitake-only product or a D-fraction extract. Our complex includes maitake as one of ten mushrooms (with lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, chaga, turkey tail, shiitake, white button, black fungus and royal sun), at 250mg of 10:1 extracts per two-gummy serving in total. It comes in a resealable 14-count travel pouch or 140- and 336-count refill boxes.
Frequently asked questions
What is maitake mushroom good for?
It's a nutritious food and is traditionally used for blood sugar and blood pressure. Small studies of its extracts show immune marker changes, but health benefits in healthy people aren't established[1][2].
Does maitake lower blood sugar?
Some studies suggest it might in people with type 2 diabetes, but the evidence is preliminary[1]. Talk to your provider if you take diabetes medication.
Is maitake safe to take with warfarin?
Check with your doctor first. Maitake has been reported to raise INR in combination with warfarin[1].
Is maitake the same as hen of the woods?
Yes. Maitake and hen of the woods are the same mushroom, Grifola frondosa. It's different from chicken of the woods, which is another species.
What's the difference between maitake and reishi?
Maitake is a tender culinary mushroom, while reishi is woody and taken as a tea or extract. They're studied for different things; see our reishi evidence guide.
Sources
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. About Herbs: Maitake. Updated July 9, 2026. mskcc.org
- Deng G, Lin H, Seidman A, et al. A phase I/II trial of a polysaccharide extract from Grifola frondosa (Maitake mushroom) in breast cancer patients: immunological effects. Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology. 2009;135(9):1215-1221. doi:10.1007/s00432-009-0562-z
- National Cancer Institute. Medicinal Mushrooms (PDQ®)–Patient Version. Updated July 11, 2024. cancer.gov
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know. ods.od.nih.gov
- McCleary BV, Draga A. Measurement of β-glucan in mushrooms and mycelial products. Journal of AOAC International. 2016;99(2):364-373. doi:10.5740/jaoacint.15-0289
About the Vita Globe Editorial Team
The Vita Globe Editorial Team researches and writes our wellness content, working from peer-reviewed research, systematic reviews and guidance from bodies such as the NIH and the FDA. We cite our sources inline and update articles when the evidence changes.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or caring for a child.
