The use of Shiitake, Lentinulus edodes dates at least to 100 AD in China. Today, Shiitake mushrooms are very popular in the United States as well. Research into the anti-cancer properties of shiitake mushrooms has been going on since at least the 1960s. Animal studies have shown some positive results regarding the anti-tumor, cholesterol-lowering, and virus-inhibiting effects of several active compounds in Shiitake mushrooms. American Cancer Society (2007).
[FREE Full Text]

Most mushrooms are rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and fiber, while they are low in fat, cholesterol and calorie content. In addition, extensive basic and clinical research on mushrooms over the past 20 years has revealed them as having an unfolding number of properties that seemingly provides remarkable health benefits. Konno, S. (2002). Today's Chiropractic.
[Free Full Text]

Shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes) is a fungus native to Japan, China, and Korea. Now it's cultivated worldwide. During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the shiitake was reserved only for the emperor and his family and it became known as the emperor's food. Shiitake is an excellent source for amino acids ; vegetable proteins; iron; thiamine (vitamin B₁); riboflavin (vitamin B₂); niacin; and vitamins B₆, B₁₂, and D₂. Lodge, J.L. (2002) Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine
[FREE Full Text]

The shiitake mushroom, Lentinula edodes is the most commercially important mushroom grown on wood. It is considered a delicacy and an essential ingredient for many Japanese and Chinese dishes. Shiitake is a model among functional mushrooms for extensive research of its bioactivity leading to the isolation of pure compounds which have pharmaceutical status. Antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activities are reported. In this study we verified the inhibitory activity of L. edodes isolates against Bacillus subtilis and on some foodborne bacteria. The isolated Le1 presented antibacterial activity against 8 species out of 20 foodborne pathogens and food contaminants. Ishikawa, N.K., Kasuya, M.C.M., Vanetti, M.C.D. (2001). Brazilian Journal of Microbiology, vol.32 no.3
[FREE Full Text] [PDF]

The chemopreventive effects of three medicinal mushrooms, Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), Turkey Tail (Trametes (Coriolus) versicolor), Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) and the succulent plant Aloe barbadensis. Invitro test suggests that their polysaccharides have antitumor promoting activities and, therefore, might be considered as potential agents for cancer chemoprevention. Kim, H.S., Kacew, S., Lee, B.M. (1999) Oxford University Press, Carcinogenesis, Vol. 20, No. 8, 1637-1640.
[Abstract] [FREE Full Text] [PDF]