Maitake mushroom is a powerful health promoting mushroom that is currently extremely popular in Asia because of its life-promoting benefits. Like Agaricus, Shitake and Reishi, it is rich in the beta-D-glucan polysaccharides that have been demonstrated to be potent immune potentiators. Maitake has been clearly demonstrated to possess immune stimulating, tumor inhibiting qualities. Recent research indicates that Maitake D-fraction provides a number of immune actions: activating cellular immunity, stopping normal cells from carcinogenesis, inhibiting tumor growth, preventing tumor metastasis, and working together with chemotherapy to relieve side effects. Maitake has also been shown to the ability to lower high blood pressure. Animal studies indicate that Maitake is effective for diabetes and human studies have shown that Maitake can help reduce body weight in overweight individuals. Maitake has recently been categorized as an adaptogenic herb, thus helping to normalize body functions.