Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in April 2026. Last updated: 22 September 2026.
Maitake — Japanese for "dancing mushroom" — is a culinary and adaptogenic mushroom that forms clusters of overlapping grey-brown caps at the foot of oak trees. In Japan it was once traded for its weight in silver, and farmers are said to have danced with joy on finding it. Maitake gained scientific prominence in the 1980s, when Japanese researchers isolated the specific "D-fraction" beta-glucans. At Plenthera you will find maitake in the organic Maitake & Reishi Extract Mix from KiKi Health: capsules with 200 mg maitake and 200 mg reishi extract from the fruiting body.
Which maitake suits you?
Overview of the common forms of maitake on the market. At Plenthera we currently stock the combination formula Maitake & Reishi Extract Mix (capsules).
| Form | Spectrum | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Combination formula (at Plenthera) | Maitake + reishi from the fruiting body | Broad mushroom profile in one capsule |
| Capsules, single extract (8:1 / 10:1) | Standardised on beta-glucans | Practical, daily use |
| D-fraction extract | Isolated D-fraction | Specific fraction focus |
| Powder | Wholefood | Culinary, smoothies |
What is maitake?
Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is an edible mushroom from the Meripilaceae family. It grows as a large cluster of overlapping caps at the foot of oak trees. The mushroom is rich in beta-glucans, in particular the so-called D-fraction.
In nature a maitake cluster can become considerable — specimens of 50 cm in diameter and several kilos are not exceptional. The grey-brown caps form a shape reminiscent of a hen's ruffled tail feathers — hence the English name "Hen of the Woods". The Dutch name "Eikhaas" (oak hare) refers both to its preference for oaks and to its fleeting, fur-like appearance.
In the kitchen, maitake is a prized mushroom with a rich, slightly nutty taste. In Japanese cuisine it is grilled, added to soup or prepared as tempura. Beyond its culinary value, maitake has long been used in Japanese and Chinese folk medicine as an adaptogen. In the 1980s Dr Hiroaki Nanba (Kobe Pharmaceutical University) began systematic research into specific polysaccharide fractions, which led to the isolation of the famous "D-fraction".
For the wider mushroom context: together with reishi, lion's mane, cordyceps and chaga, maitake forms the classic core of adaptogenic mushrooms. See our reishi category, lion's mane category, cordyceps category and chaga category for the related products.
What does science say about maitake?
Maitake is one of the most researched adaptogenic mushrooms, mainly in the Japanese scientific literature. The focus is on beta-glucans, in particular the D-fraction isolated by Dr Nanba. Other fractions such as MD-fraction (an improved version) and X-fraction (specifically for blood sugar research) are derived from similar extraction processes.
Research themes around maitake are broad: immunomodulation, blood sugar response and antioxidant activity. Much research is preclinical (cell and animal models). Clinical studies in humans exist, but are generally small and methodologically varied.
We therefore make no literal claims of effect. Maitake is a food supplement, not a medicine. If you take medication (especially diabetes medication and blood thinners): consult your doctor or pharmacist beforehand.
D-fraction, MD-fraction and X-fraction — what is the difference?
D-fraction: The original isolation by Dr Nanba in the 1980s. A protein-bound beta-glucan with a research focus on immune modulation.
MD-fraction: An improved, purified version of D-fraction with increased biological activity in research. Often isolated for clinical studies.
X-fraction: A separate fraction whose research focuses mainly on blood sugar response.
For the consumer: most commercial maitake extracts are standardised on total beta-glucans. Specific D-fraction or MD-fraction products provide more highly concentrated fractions, often in lower doses (50-200 mg) and at a higher price.
Maitake at Plenthera and other forms on the market
Maitake & Reishi Extract Mix — at Plenthera
Organic combination formula from KiKi Health: a 50:50 blend of maitake and reishi extract from the fruiting bodies, grown on a wood-rich substrate (not on grains). Each capsule contains 200 mg maitake and 200 mg reishi extract; 2 capsules per day provide 800 mg of blend. Plant-based capsule (hypromellose), certified organic (Soil Association), suitable for vegans. For those who want a broad mushroom profile without two separate products.
Other forms on the market
Maitake capsules (single extract): concentrated extract from the fruiting body, standardised on beta-glucans. Practical and precisely dosed for the broad maitake profile. Not currently stocked by us.
D-fraction maitake extract: specifically standardised on D-fraction polysaccharides. More highly concentrated, lower doses (50-200 mg). Not currently stocked by us.
Maitake powder: ground fruiting body — can be used in soups, smoothies or as a flavouring. Slightly earthy in taste, natural umami. Not currently stocked by us.
How do you use maitake?
A simple basic approach for maitake:
- Decide on your goal: broad mushroom supplementation (capsules or combination formula) or specific D-fraction.
- Our Maitake & Reishi Extract Mix: 2 capsules per day with a meal (as per the label, no more).
- General guideline on the market: 500-1000 mg extract or 1-3 g powder per day; D-fraction lower. Always follow the label.
- Preferably take with a meal; the time of day matters less.
- Give it at least 4-6 weeks of consistent use for a fair assessment.
- If you take diabetes medication: consult your doctor beforehand to coordinate blood sugar monitoring.
- If you take blood thinners or immunosuppressants: also consult beforehand.
Myths and misconceptions about maitake
Myth 1: "Maitake can replace diabetes medication."
Incorrect and dangerous. Maitake is a food supplement, not a medicine. With diabetes, medical care remains the basis — any complementary use should always be in consultation with your doctor.
Myth 2: "D-fraction is always better than regular maitake extract."
D-fraction is more concentrated on a specific fraction and is the most studied in research. Whether that is "better" in practice depends on your goal: for the broad maitake profile, an extract standardised on beta-glucans is sufficient; for a specific fraction focus, D-fraction is the premium route.
Myth 3: "The more maitake, the stronger the effect."
Adaptogens work cumulatively and subtly. Higher doses do not automatically produce faster or better effects. Consistent daily intake over weeks says more than short-term high doses.
Myth 4: "Maitake is only for people with complaints."
Maitake is originally a culinary mushroom. Many users simply integrate it into their daily routine, not because of specific complaints.
Combining maitake with other supplements
Maitake is often combined with other supplements for a broader mushroom theme. Popular combinations:
- Reishi: as an evening counterpart and for a broader adaptogen theme — already combined in our Extract Mix.
- Lion's Mane: for the cognitive theme.
- Cordyceps: for the energy theme.
- Chaga: for the antioxidant theme.
- AHCC: a standardised mushroom extract positioned within the immune theme.
- Chromium (mineral): for those who want to approach the blood sugar theme more broadly — chromium contributes to the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels (authorised claim).
Frequently asked questions
What is maitake?
Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is an edible mushroom known in the Netherlands as Eikhaas. Rich in beta-glucans, especially the D-fraction.
How does maitake work?
Maitake contains various polysaccharide fractions (D-fraction, MD-fraction, X-fraction). Research focuses on immunomodulation and blood sugar response.
What is D-fraction maitake?
A specific fraction of polysaccharides isolated by Dr Hiroaki Nanba in the 1980s. The most researched maitake component.
How much maitake per day?
Our Maitake & Reishi Extract Mix: 2 capsules per day (400 mg maitake + 400 mg reishi). General guideline on the market: powder 1-3 grams, concentrated extract 500-1000 mg, D-fraction lower (50-200 mg). Follow the label.
When should you take maitake?
Preferably with a meal. Timing is flexible — consistency matters more than timing.
Maitake for blood sugar — does it work?
Maitake has been studied in relation to blood sugar (especially X-fraction). Clinical evidence is limited. If you take diabetes medication: consult your doctor beforehand.
Maitake for the immune system — does it work?
Beta-glucans in maitake are studied in relation to immunomodulation. The effect of oral intake on clinically significant immune functions is mixed in research.
Does maitake have side effects?
Generally well tolerated. Some report mild stomach complaints. If you take medication (diabetes, blood thinners): consult beforehand.
Can you combine maitake with diabetes medication?
Possible additive effect on blood sugar. If you use diabetes medication: consult your doctor beforehand to coordinate monitoring and prevent hypoglycaemia.
Is maitake vegan?
Yes, maitake is a mushroom and therefore not of animal origin. Our Extract Mix has a plant-based capsule (hypromellose). With other products, check the capsule form: gelatine is of animal origin; plant-based (HPMC) is vegan-friendly.
Sources
- Mayell M., "Maitake extracts and their therapeutic potential", Altern Med Rev (2001).
- Konno S. et al., "A possible hypoglycaemic effect of maitake mushroom on Type 2 diabetic patients", Diabet Med (2001).
- Chen JT. et al., "Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) extract induces ovulation in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome", J Altern Complement Med (2010).
- Vetvicka V. & Vetvickova J., "Immune-enhancing effects of Maitake (Grifola frondosa) and Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) extracts", Ann Transl Med (2014).
- Wu JY. et al., "Bioactive Ingredients and Medicinal Values of Grifola frondosa (Maitake)", Foods (2021).
Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Maitake is a food supplement, not a medicine. If in doubt or if you take medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first.