What is Maitake?

Maitake is a mushroom that was discovered in Japan, where it has been used as both food and medicine for thousands of years. The name itself translates to "dancing mushroom" and it is said that people would dance with happiness upon finding it in the wild because of its incredible healing properties. This mushroom is also commonly referred to as the "hen of the woods" because of its distinctive fan-like shape with gray-brown capes and white-cream undersides. It is often found at the base of oak, elm and maple trees.

Benefits of Maitake

This mushroom has been deemed one of the most nutritionally-rich polypore mushrooms to exist. Filled with antioxidants, vitamins B, C and D, potassium, fiber, minerals and amino acids, it offers many health benefits and is believed to:

• Strengthen bones
• Boost immune system
• Improve heart health
• Reduce cholesterol
• Help manage stress response