In one study a
combination of MD-fraction and whole Maitake powder was investigated to
determine its effectiveness for 22- to 57-year-old cancer patients in stages
II-IV. Cancer regression or significant symptom improvement was observed in
58.3 percent of liver cancer patients, 68.8 percent of breast cancer patients,
and 62.5 percent of lung cancer patients; though the trial found a less than
10-20 percent improvement for leukemia, stomach cancer, and brain cancer
patients. Unfortunately there has
been little human research and clinical trials studying Maitake and Prostrate
Cancer. A 2001 study conducted at the Toya Medical and Pharmaceutical University
in Japan found that Maitake polysaccharides increased the killing power of
macrophage immune cells, and another study by researchers at the New York
Medical College, found that beta-glucan, a polysaccharide from Maitake, drastically
slowed the growth of Prostate cancer cells, causing a nearly complete cancer cell death. Obviously more clinical studies are needed.
In addition to its reported cancer fighting qualities Maitake
supplementation has also been used to regulate blood pressure, glucose and
insulin, serum and liver lipids, and even for weight loss. There have been few
reported side effects from taking Maitake MD-fraction. It appears the one area
of concern is that Maitake can lower blood sugar and therefore those with low
blood sugar should consult with their doctor before taking this
supplement.
There is little hard data about dosage for Maitake
MD-fraction. Many reports appear to recommend 0.5 to 1.0mg for each 2 pounds
of body weight. I have chosen to start on the low end of this scale, taking
45mg of the Maitake MD-fraction per day and await the results. It is best taken on an empty stomach.
