Proven medicinal benefits include antiviral, antifungal, and anti-tumor effects. For example, the consumption of shiitake mushrooms significantly lower blood cholesterol levels and is reported to lower high blood pressure in laboratory animals. Shiitake contains all eight essential amino acids in better proportions than soy beans, meat, milk, or eggs as well as a good blend of vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, B, B12, C, D and Niacin. In addition, shiitake mushrooms are a popular source of protein in Japan, and are a major diet staple in China, and other parts of the Pacific Rim. |
