Organic Shiitake Mushroom Slices
Lentinula edodes
You might need shiitake if . . .
- You want to support your body’s detox pathways
- You are constantly sick
- You have minor aches and pains
Benefits of Shiitake
- Rich in nutrients
- Antimicrobial properties
- Antioxidants
- Supports the immune system
- Anti-inflammatory
- Supports bone health
Common Ways to Use Shiitake
You can find shiitake as whole mushrooms, in pills, powders, extracts, or tinctures.
🌿Try making herbal extractions like this immune-supporting soup! ← 🟩 DIYs, recipes, and more!
Growing and Foraging Information
Growing shiitake mushrooms is pretty simple and can be rewarding. Start by gathering fresh hardwood logs, such as oak or maple, about 3–4 feet long and 3–6 inches in diameter, cut within the last six weeks. Drill holes about 1 inch deep in a staggered diamond pattern along the log’s length, spacing them 1–2 inches apart in rows and 3–4 inches between rows. Insert shiitake spawn (either with plugs or sawdust) into the holes, then seal each hole with melted wax, like beeswax, to protect the spawn. Place the logs in a shady, humid area, stacking them log-cabin style or leaning them against a structure to ensure good airflow.
Keep the logs moist by watering them regularly, especially during dry periods, and monitor for pests or mold, brushing off any that appear. The mycelium will colonize the logs over 6–12 months, often visible as a white coating on the ends. Once colonized, soak the logs in cold water for 24 hours to stimulate fruiting. After 7–14 days, shiitake mushrooms will begin to grow. Harvest them when the caps are fully open but not curled at the edges, gently twisting or cutting them off. With proper care, the logs will produce mushrooms every few months for up to five years.
Safety Concerns
Drug Interaction: If you have any health concerns or are taking any prescription medication, please consult with your health care provider before adding new herbs to your diet.
Breastfeeding and Pregnancy: There are no known contraindications for breastfeeding and pregnancy.
Select Studies About Shiitake
Mushrooms have many medicinal and nutritional benefits. Shiitake ranks 2nd in worldwide consumption and also has many bioactive properties.
Shiitake mushrooms have several medicinal properties. These include bioactivity. They have been studied for many years and the nutritional value is very high.
Shiitake is used for many reasons including medicinal and culinary reasons. It is a tasty food when cooked, however there are even more medicinal benefits to it. The mushroom is very high in nutrients, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties.