Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

Other names: Reed canary grass, dancing mushroom, sulphur grass, ram's head, sheep's head, wood hen, dandelion, dandelion grass, hui shu hua, Hen of the Woods, dancing mushroom, oakleaf chorosis, Polyporus frondosus

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

Maitake, also known as reed thistle, dancing mushroom, sulphur mushroom, ram's head, sheep's head, forest hen, dandelion, hui shu hua, Hen of the Woods, or Polyporus frondosus, is an excellent edible mushroom native to Japan. Its name "maitake" translates from the Japanese language as "dancing mushroom" and refers to the joy of the people when they found this mushroom, as it is very tasty and medicinal. The mushroom is well known for its health benefits, including supporting the immune system, regulating blood pressure and cholesterol, and promoting liver health. Hardy or in colder regions of North America.

Maitake is used in both gastronomy and medicine, but is also found in cosmetics. In the kitchen, it is popular for its nut-like flavour and its texture, which is firm but soft. It is one of the most popular mushrooms in Japanese cuisine, where it is used in traditional dishes such as sushi and rice dishes. In medicine, maitake is valued for its immunomodulatory effects, as it helps to increase the activity of white blood cells, which are essential for the human immune system. In cosmetics, maitake is often used for its properties to moisturize and regenerate the skin, and is therefore included in many skin creams, masks and serums.

Maitake is also often found in various nutritional supplements aimed at overall health and wellness. In powder or extract form, it is included in many dietary supplements designed to support the immune system or to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. The Maitake mushroom is thus an important component of many products in the food, medicine and cosmetics sectors.