Maitake Mushroom Dosage: How Much Maitake Should I Take?

by Kat Austin March 29, 2022 7 min read

Maitake Mushroom Dosage: How Much Maitake Should I Take? - VO Inc

Researchers still have a lot to learn about Maitake’s full therapeutic potential, but those who are convinced of this medicinal mushroom’s body-balancing benefits have only one important question left–how much maitake should I take each day?

We’ll dig into the research and anecdotal reports to try to tell you everything you need to know about maitake dosage, like when is the best time to take maitake and exactly how much you should take. 

Let’s start with the basics:

Table of Contents
How Much Maitake Should I Take?
What’s the Best Way to Take Maitake?
When Should I Take Maitake?
Who Shouldn’t Take Maitake?
Maitake Dosage FAQs
Resources

Key Takeaways

  • Maitake dosage typically ranges from 50-450 mg daily and can be taken in one or two doses. Start with a lower dose and increase as needed based on your health condition, weight, and age.
  • When combined with other functional mushrooms or adaptogenic herbs, a lower maitake mushroom dosage may be sufficient for immune support and general wellness.
  • Consult a doctor before adding a maitake supplement, especially if you have blood pressure or blood sugar issues.
  • For optimal results, choose the best maitake mushroom supplement by ensuring it is high-quality and free of fillers.

What is Maitake & What are Its Benefits?

A fresh maitake mushroom, which can be consumed raw or cooked, or dried and powdered.

The Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondrosa) has gained a reputation as an adaptogenic powerhouse, meaning it can "adapt" to the body's needs to help regulate imbalances and strengthen crucial bodily processes.

For instance, studies have found Maitake to be among one of the most powerful mushrooms for boosting the immune system, while other evidence suggests that Maitake supplementation may even help to regulate cholesterol or manage diabetes.

 

How Much Maitake Should I Take Daily?

Before we can dive into the most important question at hand–how much Maitake should I take–let's cover some important details.

First, keep in mind that your Maitake dosage will vary from others' based on unique biological factors like weight, age, health condition, and more. You should also consider that Maitake is sold as a supplement in the United States, which means dosage recommendations are not standardized.

In most cases, it's best to start in the lower end of the dosing threshold suggested and work your way up to larger doses. With a little work and introspection, you can quickly find the dose that best meets your needs.

Doses between 50 mg and 450 mg of Maitake powder have been used successfully to reap its various benefits. Lower doses may be needed when using maitake alongside other mushroom compounds.

 

Taking Maitake Alone vs Multi-Mushroom Combinations

If you're taking Maitake on its own, you can start at the low end of this dosing threshold and increase as necessary.

If you're using a product that contains Maitake alongside other functional mushrooms or adaptogenic herbs, you'll want to make sure that you pay attention to the proper dosage threshold for other ingredients when adjusting your dosage. These types of formulas are common, and it may be best in this case to just follow the recommended dosage in the label.

In the case of taking Maitake on its own, the dosage may vary based on health needs. Here are some of the recommended doses based on anecdotal reports and the dosages used In limited studies and preclinical trials:

Maitake for Immune Boost

One study used 3mg/kg twice daily for boosting immune system functions with positive results. That translates to 3 milligrams for every 2.2 pounds of body weight, or around 200 mg for a 150 lb person.

This dosage was used twice daily, although once daily doses of 50-150 mg have also been successfully used for similar therapeutic benefits.

Maitake for PCOS Symptoms

One study found that Maitake and a blend of other mushrooms may help manage symptoms related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. In this study, women took 9 tablets containing 18mg of Maitake (plus 250 mg of powdered mushrooms) daily, or 162mg of Maitake daily.

Maitake for Cancer

More research is needed to prove the benefits of Maitake for Cancer, but one study used doses of 40-150 mg of extract and an additional 4-9 grams of whole mushroom powder daily.

What's the Best Way to Take Maitake Mushrooms?

As you dive into the different Maitake dosing options available, you'll quickly find that there are two primary options–capsules and powder–plus a variety of multi-mushroom combinations.

If you're asking yourself "what's the best type of Maitake to take?", you'll be happy to know that it generally depends on your personal dosing needs. The most important thing is finding a trustworthy supplier. Here are the benefits and drawbacks of each type of Maitake dose:

A bowl filled with maitake mushroom capsules filled with maitake powder.

Capsules

Capsules are simply pre-measured, encapsulated doses that are great for daily dosing at any time of day. You won’t need to measure the dosage each time, and many people love this flavorless Maitake dosing option.

Powder

Maitake powder is a popular option for precise maitake dosage control, easily mixed into food, beverages, or smoothies. Some prefer maitake supplement options like coffee or tea for daily dosing.

Powder forms may offer better absorption, especially when consumed with healthy fats and fluids. If you're seeking a blend of maitake mushroom with other herbs, powder is often ideal since the dosage is too large for capsules. Always check the serving size when adjusting your maitake mushroom dosage.

Looking for a tasty product that takes advantage of medicinal mushroom and nootropic ingredients like this? We recommend checking out Lucid Super Coffee.

When Should I Take Maitake?

 

To support immune function and overall wellness, it's essential to take maitake mushroom daily. It may take about two weeks for the effects to build up and create balance in the body.

Many prefer splitting their maitake supplement into morning and afternoon doses with meals, while others take it once daily in the morning. The ideal dosing routine depends on your wellness plan, and splitting doses may be easier if you already take multiple supplements.

Who Should Not Take Maitake?

Maitake is generally well tolerated and is a regular part of diet and cuisine in many parts of the world. In fact, the edible mushroom is often considered a delicacy that’s forged during its harvest season and cooked fresh. Still, some people should avoid supplementing with maitake, including people who:

  • May have a mushroom allergy
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Take blood thinning medications
  • Take other medications or supplements that may lower blood sugar
  • Have low blood pressure or take medications to lower blood pressure

You should also avoid taking maitake before surgery since it may thin the blood. Quit taking maitake at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

As with any changes to your wellness routine, you should talk to your doctor before adding maitake to your diet, especially if you already take other medications or supplements daily to manage one or more health conditions. In general, adverse effects are often related to poor product quality, so make sure you buy your Maitake supplements from a trustworthy source.

Read "Maitake Side Effects" to learn more. 

Maitake Dosage FAQ's

How much Maitake should I take a day?

The typical daily dosage of Maitake mushroom varies depending on the form, but most supplements suggest 1 to 3 grams of dried mushroom powder or 1 to 2 capsules per day. It's best to follow the specific product's instructions and consult a healthcare provider.

Can you eat too much Maitake?

Yes, consuming too much Maitake could lead to digestive discomfort, such as bloating or an upset stomach. It’s always a good idea to start with a lower dose and increase gradually, if needed.

How does Maitake make you feel?

Maitake mushrooms may help improve mood, boost energy, and promote overall well-being. Some people report feeling more balanced and calm after consuming Maitake, due to its adaptogenic properties.

Is Maitake mushroom a stimulant?

No, Maitake mushroom is not a stimulant. Instead, it is known for its immune-boosting and adaptogenic benefits, helping the body handle stress rather than providing an immediate energy boost.

What are the side effects of Maitake?

Maitake is generally considered safe, but some potential side effects include digestive issues, allergic reactions, or a drop in blood sugar levels. People with diabetes or low blood pressure should consult their doctor before using Maitake.

What does Maitake do for the brain?

Maitake may support brain health by reducing inflammation and improving immune function. Its adaptogenic properties can also help manage stress, which positively impacts cognitive function and mental clarity.

What's the best Maitake dosage?

Maitake dosage can range from 50-450 mg daily, though many people take 150-200 mg per day on average.

Can I take Maitake everyday?

Yes, and you should! Functional mushrooms work best when taken consistently, and it may take up to two weeks of consistent doses to experience the full benefits of a maitake dose.

Should I take Maitake in the morning?

Many people find that incorporating maitake in the morning is the best way to create a consistent dosing routine. You can take maitake in the morning, or you can take maitake at whatever point in the day best suits your needs. No matter what time you choose, you should try to take your maitake dose at the same time each day.

Should I take Maitake more than once a day?

Many people choose to take one dose of maitake daily for convenience, but the dosage can also be split into two smaller doses. This is often the way that maitake is taken in many of the preclinical trials available.

Should I take Maitake with food?

Some people take Maitake without food with no issue. If you feel nauseous after taking it on an empty stomach, try taking your Maitake dose with a small meal.

Resources

  1. “Immune-enhancing effects of Maitake (Grifola frondosa) and Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) extracts” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4202470/
  2. “Effect of Dietary Maitake (Grifola frondosa) Mushrooms on Plasma Cholesterol and Hepatic Gene Expression in Cholesterol-Fed Mice” https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jos/62/12/62_1049/_article
  3. “Submerged-Culture Mycelia and Broth of the Maitake Medicinal Mushroom Grifola frondosa (Higher Basidiomycetes) Alleviate Type 2 Diabetes-Induced Alterations in Immunocytic Function” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26349512/
  4. “Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) extract induces ovulation in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a possible monotherapy and a combination therapy after failure with first-line clomiphene citrate” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21034160/
  5. “Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) extract induces ovulation in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a possible monotherapy and a combination therapy after failure with first-line clomiphene citrate”https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21034160/
  6. “Effect of Maitake (Grifola frondosa) D-Fraction on the activation of NK cells in cancer patients” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14977447/

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