This post is the third in a series of articles concerning functional/medicinal mushrooms.  If you missed last month's newsletter, you can find it here: July Newsletter.

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Grifola frondosa  are native to North America and we commonly refer to these mushrooms as “Hen of the Woods” due to the resemblance of a chicken. Some Americans know this mushroom as Ram's Head. In Japan and sometimes in America, these mushrooms are called Maitake. We remind you that ‘take’ in Japanese means mushroom. Maitake translates to, "the dancing mushroom". With many names for the same mushroom, it's obvious why using taxonomic names can be important. 

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​In the kitchen, Maitake mushrooms are prized for their robust, earthy flavor and the interesting, feathery texture. Whether sautéed, grilled or roasted, maitake mushrooms add a deep, umami richness to any meal. They pair exceptionally well with both meat and vegetarian dishes, enhancing everything from pastas and risottos to soups and stir- fries. The unique structure allows them to crisp up nicely when cooked, making them a delightful addition to salads and as an unusual garnish.

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Maitake mushrooms are gaining popularity for their rich nutritional profile. Maitake are low in calories, high in fiber and fat-free yet packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Particularly high amounts of vitamin D are found in maitake mushrooms, which is essential for bone health and immune function, they also provide B vitamins, including niacin, riboflavin and folate which support energy production and nervous system health. Maitake mushrooms are high in fiber promoting digestive health and contain significant amounts of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. 

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Maitake mushrooms are highly esteemed for their impressive medicinal properties. They are rich in bioactive compounds, particularly beta-glucans, which have been studied extensively for their immune boosting effects. Regular consumption of maitake mushrooms is believed to help regulate blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk. In addition, these mushrooms have been associated with lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol profiles and supporting overall cardiovascular health. The adaptogenic qualities of maitake are also supportive in helping the body resist stress and restore balance.

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Although, maitake are one of the least available mushrooms at grocery stores things are changing and you can occasionally find this incredibly versatile mushroom. If you're in the area of Churchville, VA, you can regularly find Maitake/Hen of the Woods at 

The Necessary Mercantile.

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 For further information and research, there are plenty of medical studies listed on The National Institute of Health website.

Here at Enchanted Nature we are excited to be the first company in Virginia approved to create mushroom extracts for retail sales. You can find them for sale on our Trading Post page.​​