1. Strengthen the immune system
Although the actual mechanism by which polysaccharides activate the immune system is still debated, it has been confirmed that different polysaccharides can stimulate T-cell function, natural killer (NK) cell and macrophage activity. T-cells are a type of white blood cell, which can "phagocytose" pathogens such as yeast cells, bacteria, cells infected by viruses, and so on. Macrophages are concentrated in the mucosal layer of the body-especially in the digestive system, urinary system and respiratory system. Polysaccharides also play a supporting and strengthening role in the reticuloendothelial system, which is the tissue where immune cells (including macrophages) penetrate deep into the spleen, liver and lymphatic tissues and engulf waste and toxic chemicals.
2. Anti-cancer
Grifola frondosa polysaccharide can activate immune responses such as macrophages, natural killer cells, T-lymphocytes, as well as lymphokines and interleukins. These properties make it useful for the treatment of cancer. Studies have shown that it can reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, and animal experiments have also shown that Grifola frondosa can shrink tumors. In a study, compared with other natural substances previously tested. Grifola frondosa is proven to be the most effective inducer of cancer cell apoptosis (cell death).
3. Lower blood pressure, cholesterol and arteriosclerosis
The active ingredients in Grifola frondosa polysaccharides such as Beta (1-3) D-glucan and Beta (1-6) D-glucan protein compounds have a positive effect on reducing blood glucose (sugar). The unsaturated fatty acids contained in Grifola frondosa extract, such as glycerol trilinoleate, also have the effect of lowering blood sugar, cholesterol and arteriosclerosis.
