I spent years and years studying the maitake mushroom and if effect on the immune system. It comes from a mushroom family, Polyporaceae, rich is incredibly rich in members with the ability to stimulate the immune system. A powerful immune stimulant, I suspected maitake would be useful in HIV and AIDS. I conducted a clinical trial to see if it made a difference, and, it did. If you want to know about how maitake can be used in HIV infection, read on. You will find an Introduction, an article for the Professional, my Inital report on HIV clinical Trial, and my Final report on HIV clinical trial.

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Introduction

Problematic viral infections like Genital Herpes, Hepatitis B and C, and HIV infection have brought viral infection into the hearts and minds of the general public and research community alike. Some of these conditions threaten life and others threaten the quality of life. Regardless of the gravity of the viral infection, one thing is for certain, once you have a viral infection, you have it for life. They do not go away.

Before we can talk about maitake and viral disease it will be neccessary to first discuss the nature of viral disease. The general public does not understand the difference between viral disease and bacterial disease and in consequence they end up at the doct

Once a virus has made its way into the body there, it will stay until life ends. In no other condition is an active immune system as critical as in viral disease. Though a virus stays with you for life, the immune system can beat the virus into submission. It can keep it dormant. When the immune function dips, viruses come out of remission. The key to managing viral conditions is keeping the immune system strong and healthy. As you might have guessed, maitake, with its ability to stimulate the immune system, is an excellant choice for those that suffer from viral disease.

Traditional medicine, herbal medicine, around the world, has been treating viral infection since the beginning of time. The medicine men and women of yesteryear scoured the countryside for drugs that could be use to cure viral infections. The old herbals are filled with herbs used to treat chicken pox, shingles, herpes, influenza, and hepatitis. Many medicinal mushrooms have been used as antiviral drugs since the days of old. This body of knowledge represents a tremendous source of potential anti-viral drugs and it should be taken seriously. Local healers used tonic plants like maitake for centuries not because they had nothing better to do, but because they saw it made a difference. Medicinal mushrooms are a group of tonic plants that have always been used to treat viral disease.

Maitake’s proven ability to inhibit HIV was the thing that first attracted me to it. The fact that a research group had established this and that nothing happened after the fact made it of great interest to me. “The Herbalists” picked up maitake and started working with it in HIV infection and many other viral infections. After working with it for sometime it is my conclusion that maitake may represent the next great discovery of the medical proffession. When Alexander Fleming discovered penicilin the world changed. Much the same way, we feel that maitake may represent another great discovery and might be the one that renders viral disease a thing of the past.

As most of my work has been with Maitake and HIV we will use its use in HIV as a model for its use in other viral diseases.

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An Article for the Professional

GRIFOLA FRONDOSA AND
THE HUMAN IMMUNO-DEFICIENCY VIRUS
DOUGLAS SCHAR, BA, DipPhyt, MCPP

ABSTRACT
Grifola frondosa (Maitake) appears to work on several levels to fight viral infection, including direct inhibition of the virus, stimulation of the body’s own natural defence system, and added protection against opportunistic infections. This article discusses the contemporary human and animal research data which provide evidence to support these pharmacological activities and details the phytochemical components of Grifola frondosa with proven antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activity.

INTRODUCTION
Human immuno-deficiency virus, or HIV, infection is increasingly a problem globally. Despite public education campaigns in the west and elsewhere, the number of HIV infected individuals grows on a yearly basis. HIV infection is clearly one of the greatest threats to world health as we approach the year 2000. The virus is not going away and health care practitioners must prepare themselves to deal with both HIV infection and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

Great strides have been made in the allopathic medical world in regards to the treatment of HIV and AIDS. People are now surviving the virus longer than ever before. The combination therapies, or cocktails as they are known, are increasingly successful at keeping the virus under control.

There is no doubt that herbal medicines can play a role in the treatment of HIV and AIDS. It is the feeling of many working in the field of HIV and AIDS that true combination therapy, a combination of allopathic and herbal medicine, may offer the ultimate solution to this particular virus.

In this article, we will examine one medicinal plant, Grifola frondosa, as a potential anti-HIV drug. Grifola frondosa has been used by practitioners in America to treat the human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) since the beginning of the 1990s. Though research is in its early days, that which is known indicates that Grifola frondosa has a complex action on HIV and AIDS, and that further research is warranted.

I am currently conducting a limited clinical study of the effects of Grifola frondosa in AIDS. The practitioner testimonials coming from America combined with the research available on Grifola frondosa at the present moment which suggested that a trial, however, rudimentary, was essential. As you will see, the argument for Grifola frondosa’s use in HIV infection and AIDS is compelling.

Practitioners working specifically with HIV and AIDS think that Grifola frondosa does make a difference. The complete lack of toxicity associated with Grifola frondosa, and the apparent benefits it offers, make it an ideal candidate for further research.

GRIFOLA FRONDOSA’S ACTIVITY IN HIV AND AIDS
Grifola frondosa appears to work on several levels in this viral condition:
1. It inhibits the Human Immuno-deficiency Virus directly.
2. It stimulates the body’s own natural defence system against viruses.
3. It makes the body less vulnerable to opportunistic disease.

We will now look at these three activities separately and in greater detail.

DIRECT INHIBITION OF HIV
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by HIV, which attacks the cells of the immune system. Grifola frondosa contains substances that suppress HIV. When the virus is suppressed, the immune cells are able to do their jobs. Grifola frondosa has been shown to block HIV from attacking human immune cells.

Researchers in the field of phytotherapy believe that compounds found in Grifola frondosa directly inhibit HIV. When the American National Cancer Institute screened a Grifola frondosa extract for anti-HIV activity, they concluded that the extract inhibited the virus from infecting uninfected human cells and increased the survival time of infected human cells. This fact was published on 31 December 1991 and practitioners using Grifola frondosa today believe this explains what they observe in clinical practice.

Dr Hiroaki Nanba, a professor in the Department of Microbiology of Kobe Pharmaceutical University in Japan, pioneered much of the research done with Grifola frondosa on a variety of subjects. In the following excerpt, Dr. Nanba speaks on Grifola frondosa and HIV:

“In 1991, I conducted research on Grifola frondosa (Maitake) extract against HIV, which is believed to be a cause of AIDS. It is found that sulphated Maitake extract has the ability to prevent HIV from killing helper T cells (CD4 cells). The death of CD4 cells is critical in the progression of an HIV infected person to AIDS. In this test, the HIV infected CD4 survived almost 100 percent at sample concentrations around 1pg/mg. An abstract of this test was presented at the 8th International AIDS conference in Amsterdam in July 1992.

Such anti-HIV activity of a sulphated form of Grifola frondosa mushroom has also been confirmed by the National Institute of Health in Japan as well as the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the States. In fact, doctors from NCI have admitted that the sulphated Grifola frondosa extract is most effective among all anti-HIV polysaccharides known to date and is as powerful as the toxic drug AZT.”

In another article published in Japan, we again read of the activity of Grifola frondosa in HIV and AIDS:

“It has been reported that a diet containing Grifola frondosa is effective in vivo in attenuating human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) from patients with AIDS. An increase of CD4 cells has been observed in patients who were given Grifola frondosa (o.p.) It is intriguing that sulphated SPGs have anti-HIV activity, and its mechanism has been partially elucidated. Furthermore, Nanba et al, have reported that a diet containing (1-6) -D-Glucan with (1-3) -D-Glucan residues extracted from Grifola frondosa was effective in suppressing HIV replication in patients with AIDS (Presented at the 113th Meeting of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan, 1993).”15

Work in Japan and America concluded that unknown constituents found in Grifola frondosa inhibited the Human Immuno-deficiency Virus. Additional research is needed to discover exactly what constituent is responsible for this activity.

Host Defence Potentiation
Grifola frondosa is thought to potentiate our natural anti-viral mechanisms. It is not seen as a miracle cure for HIV infection, but rather as an agent that stimulates the body so that it can more effectively deal with the virus. Simply put, Grifola frondosa is thought to assist the body in keeping HIV under control. The term applied to this action is Host Defence Potentiation (HDP). Grifola frondosa is therefore a Host Defence Potentiator.

Grifola frondosa’s activity as a Host Defense Potentiator is based on two activities attributed to the medicinal mushroom:
A. Induction of interferon production; and
B. Increased Natural Killer Cell activity.

A. Induction of Interferon Production
Viruses cannot survive on their own. They have to take cells hostage to survive. Once a cell has been taken hostage, it cannot do anything to rid itself of the virus. It can, however, help other cells avoid the same predicament. Viral infected cells produce interferon as a means of helping other cells avoid viral infection. The interferon produced by the viral infected cell floats to adjacent cells and attaches to them. Once attached to the uninfected cell, interferon stimulates production of proteins within the cell. These proteins in turn interfere with the ability of the virus to infect the cell. The neighbouring cells are thus protected from becoming infected by the virus.

In addition to offering protection to neighbouring cells, interferon stimulates the body to implement its other anti-viral strategies. Natural Killer Cells and Macrophages become activated by interferon. These immune cells in turn prowl the body for viruses that need to be destroyed before they can infect other cells.

As has been demonstrated, interferon is an essential ingredient in the body’s war against viral infection. It is important to note that the protective activity of interferon is non-specific. In other words, interferon produced by a cell infected with the Herpes virus will enable its neighbouring cell to protect itself against the Herpes virus and any other virus that comes along.

Interferon produced by the pharmaceutical industry is currently used to treat Hepatitis C and Kaposi’s sarcoma. It is used against HIV infection as a means of stopping the proliferation of the virus. The pharmaceutically prepared interferon is, however, quite expensive and has severe side effects. Therefore, the ideal solution is to stimulate the body to produce its own interferon, something Grifola frondosa appears to be able to do.

At present, research is being conducted in Japan examining Grifola frondosa and interferon induction. In a short time we may better understand this activity. The means by which medicinal mushrooms are thought to stimulate the production of interferon are described below.

1. Virus Like Particles (VLP) Induce Interferon Production
Some time ago it was discovered that certain medicinal mushrooms stimulated the production of interferon in the bodies of animals. Bearing in mind the importance of interferon in viral infection, this was an important discovery.

In the 1950s, mushroom growers worldwide reported a mushroom plague. It was eventually determined that the mushroom disease was caused by three viruses that affected the button cap mushroom, Agaricus bisporus. The notion of mycoviruses, or viruses that affect mushrooms, then came to the fore.24

In 1967, polyhedral virus particles were detected in a fungus, Penicillium stoloniferum.12 These virus particles contained stranded RNA (ds-RNA). Later, these virus like particles (VLPs) were isolated and studied.5 Researchers found that these VLPs, much like viruses, induced interferon production in mice.

Separately, research revealed that interferon inhibited viruses and limited viral infection. These two discoveries combined to put medicinal mushrooms in the spotlight as a potential source of anti-viral drugs.

During the 1960s, researchers used an electron microscope to identify virus like particles in 65 species of mushrooms in Japan. Later, researchers collected Lentinus edodes (shitake) from the wild and from shitake farms. They found that wild and cultivated shitake mushrooms also contained virus like particles (VLPs). The mushrooms examined were without symptoms of viral infection.24 Though investigation with electron microscopes revealed the presence of VLPs, the mushrooms themselves appeared perfectly normal.

Mori and Mori found that wild and cultivated Lentinus edodes contained VLPs of three types: polyhedrals, filamentous particles and rod shaped particles. The most common VLP was the polyhedral type. The polyhedral type VLP was found to induce interferon production in animals. It was thus concluded that virus like particles, specifically polyhedral virus like particles found in mushrooms, caused the production of interferon in the animal body.

2. Spore Extracts Stimulate Interferon Production
In 1974, researchers found that a spore extract of Lentinus edodes, though not viricidal in vitro, was anti-viral in vivo. They found that the phenol extract of the spores was more effective at inducing interferon production than the fruiting bodies alone. It was concluded that the spore extracts stimulated the production of interferon in animals.27

3. Nucleic Acids Stimulate Interferon Production
In 1979, researchers isolated nucleic acids from two Grifola frondosa relatives, Piptoporus betulinus and Canoderma applanatum. They found that these isolated nucleic acids reduced the number of Vaccinia virus plaques in chick embryo fibroblast (CEF) tissue culture. They went on to discover that these compounds, when administered intravenously to white mice, protected them against a lethal injection of tick borne Encephalitis Virus strain K5 (TBE). In CEF tissue culture and in live animals, nucleic acids acted as interferon inducers.19

4. Germanium Stimulates Interferon Production
In recent times the element Germanium has received much attention for several reasons. Plants traditionally used to treat serious, life-threatening conditions, such as Ginseng and Reishi, are extremely high in organic Germanium. Germanium is the one common element in plants historically used to bring people back from the brink of death. Some believe Germanium is the key to the healing activity of these plants.

Research on Germanium has revealed that it stimulates the immune system in the same way that Grifola frondosa is reported to do. It was found specifically to stimulate the production of gamma-interferon in laboratory animals. As chance would have it, Grifola frondosa contains high amounts of Germanium. The presence of Germanium in Grifola frondosa and other medicinal mushrooms may in part explain their interferon induction.

5. Beta-Glucans Stimulate Interferon Production
Grifola frondosa contains complex polysaccharides known as beta-glucans. These sugars are quite odd in a number of respects. For example, water has a molecular weight of 18. The Beta-glucans found in Grifola frondosa have a molecular weight of between 200,000 to 1,000,000. This is merely the beginning of the strange character of these molecules that only nature could produce.

The research surrounding Grifola frondosa and cancer revealed that these Beta-glucans powerfully stimulated the activity of macrophages in animals. Macrophages, apart from destroying cancerous cells and foreign invaders, produce interferon. Grifola frondosa may stimulate interferon production as a consequence of stimulating macrophage activity.1

In the near future, Grifola frondosa’s ability to stimulate interferon production will be better understood. The research is being conducted presently. This is important research in understanding Grifola frondosa’s activity in the Human Immuno-deficiency Virus infection and the results are anxiously awaited.

B. Increased Natural Killer Cell Activity
Natural Killer Cells, one of several types of immune cells that make up the immune system, may have a role to play in controlling HIV infection and AIDS. Most notably, they can kill cancer and virus infected cells before the immune system as a whole is alerted to the presence of a problem. Natural Killer Cells are lymphocytes, but differ in activity from all other lymphocytes.

Most lymphocytes are coded or programmed to attack specific foreign invaders or cancer cells. The immune system trains them to hunt for a specific sort of ‘bad’ cell and they then seek out that ‘bad cell’ and destroy it. Most lymphocytes require coding by the immune system before they can be of use in the war against foreign invaders or cancer cells.

The Natural Killer Cell is not coded to kill any particular dangerous cell, but rather to kill any and all virus-infected or cancerous cells that they encounter. Scientists suspect that the Natural Killer Cell has the ability to recognise a problematic cell, whether it is cancerous or virus containing, from the surface of the cell membrane. Lymphocytes, on the other hand, need to be trained to spot abnormal cells, which the Natural Killer Cell detects on sight.

This ability is probably due to the structure of troublesome cells. Cancerous cells and cells harbouring virus have a different surface structure to a normal cell. The Natural Killer Cell may recognise this and react accordingly. The potentially dangerous cell is destroyed and thus the threat is ended.

Natural Killer Cells are therefore the body’s first defence against such dangerous cells. As a result, researchers looked to see if the anti-cancer activity of medicinal mushrooms was due to activation of the Natural Killer Cells. The overwhelming evidence in animal studies was that Grifola frondosa stimulated Natural Killer Cell activity, and that this would have an impact on inhibiting the spread of cancer. In fact, several medicinal mushrooms were found to accomplish this feat. Here are three examples from the Maitake family of mushrooms:
• Ganoderma tsugae extract enhances Natural Killer Cell activity in mice;29
• Ganoderma lucidum enhanced Natural Killer Cell activity in vitro and in mice;32
• Lentinus edodes extract enhances Natural Killer Cell activity in mice.21

More specifically research revealed that constituents in Grifola frondosa stimulated the activity of the Natural Killer Cells and their production of killer substances.28 Under its influence, Natural Killer Cells moved faster and killed more efficiently.

Beyond this, in animal studies, Grifola frondosa stimulated the transformation of Natural Killer precursor cells into active Natural Killer Cells.1 The relevance of this is that the mushroom stimulated the production of more Natural Killer Cells. Effectively, there were more Natural Killer Cells in circulation and, once there, they worked more efficiently.

Though we are discussing viral infection, the work done on Natural Killer Cells and cancer is relevant. As Natural Killer Cells attack both cancer cells and virus infected cells, what is true for cancer is likely to be true for viral infection. The Natural Killer Cell has several jobs, and when stimulated, will do them with renewed vigour, whether hunting cells containing viruses or cells that have become cancerous. There is little doubt that increased Natural Killer Cell activity, incited by Grifola frondosa, partly explains its activity in HIV and AIDS.

Reduction in Vulnerability to Opportunistic Disease
HIV does not kill a person, opportunistic infections and cancer do. These conditions result from loss of immune function caused by HIV and are therefore termed ‘symptomatic conditions’. That is, they are symptoms of the viral infection. Apart from attacking the virus directly, Grifola frondosa is thought to work on a symptomatic basis as well. It helps the body cope with bacterial and fungal infections and cancerous cells.

Grifola frondosa contains chemicals that make the body less vulnerable to opportunistic disease. The HIV patient lacks a competent immune system, and micro-organisms and cancer cells take advantage of this opportunity, hence the term opportunistic disease. When the immune function disappears, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and cancer cells have free run in the body. Chemicals in Grifola frondosa attack bacteria, viruses, fungi, and cancer cells directly. In the absence of a competent immune system, Grifola frondosa may help to keep the opportunistic infections in check.

Using anti-microbial substances to support a person lacking proper immune function is common practice in allopathic medical circles. Patients with HIV are routinely treated with broad spectrum antibiotics to keep microbial infections in check. Using medicinal mushrooms like Grifola frondosa may add an additional layer of protection for those who need it, and with fewer potential side effects.

Let’s look at the following opportunistic diseases individually and see what Grifola frondosa has to offer:
A. Anti-Viral Activity;
B. Anti-Bacterial Activity;
C. Anti-Fungal Activity;
D. Anti-Parasitic Activity; and
E. Anti-Cancer Activity.

A. Anti-Viral Activity
When searching for anti-viral substances, the natural world is a good place to start. Organisms in nature have been dealing with viruses effectively since the beginning of time. Studying these organisms may provide us with clues as to how we can do the same.

If one examines plants that live in the woodland, such as fungi, one finds that they are loaded with anti-microbial substances. Their tissues are filled with substances that kill and inhibit bacteria, virus, and fungi on contact.

Grifola frondosa is one organism that has survived for untold years on the forest floor. We do not know exactly how long Grifola frondosa has existed in that environment. We do know that fungi are some of the most ancient organisms, having been around for hundreds of thousands, if not millions of years.

It should therefore come as no great surprise that the American Cancer Institute determined that an extract of Grifola frondosa inhibited the Human Immuno-deficiency Virus and prevented it from infecting human cells in vitro. Though Grifola frondosa would not have come into contact with HIV virus on the woodland floor, it would have encountered more than one virus that needed inhibiting. If you want to learn how to handle a virus, it pays to study organisms that have risen to the challenge.

Medicinal mushrooms like Grifola frondosa were used around the world to treat viral infection before the birth of Christ. Conditions like the herpes simplex, herpes zoster, chicken pox, measles, mumps, warts and viral hepatitis have long been treated with medicinal mushrooms. This was true even before man understood that viruses caused the aforementioned conditions.

With HIV and AIDS, viral infections like oral and genital herpes and warts, shingles, cytomegalovirus, and hepatitis become a serious problem. The compromised immune system is unable to keep these viral diseases in check. These AIDS related conditions are being treated with Grifola frondosa. Practitioners administering the drug state there is a reduced incidence of viral infections among patients who take Grifola frondosa.

B. Anti-Bacterial Activity
As with its anti-viral activity, Grifola frondosa appears to address bacterial infection on at least two levels. Firstly, it contains substances that inhibit or kill bacteria. Secondly, it stimulates the immune cells responsible for killing bacteria.

When assessing the intrinsic anti-bacterial activity of Grifola frondosa we should first review the anti-bacterial activity of mushrooms in the broader sense of the subject.

In the world of ethnobotany, we find that many mushrooms have been used to treat bacterial infection. In the West, Fomitopsis officinalis, (Agaric), and in the East, Ganoderma applanatum and Trametes orientalis, were formerly official treatments for tuberculosis.31 Tuberculosis is not only an example of a bacterial infection traditionally treated by medicinal mushrooms, but it is also an example of a bacterial infection that particularly afflicts HIV positive individuals.

Penicillin is, of course, a fungus. When the scientific community realised that one fungus could inhibit bacteria, the world of fungi became the subject of a search for additional antibiotic substances.

When screened by the scientific community, mushrooms traditionally used to treat bacterial infection were found to contain antibiotics. The Polyporaceae family (the Maitake family) was examined to see if its members contained chemicals that could kill bacteria. Research on this family revealed that many members contained anti-bacterial substances. Here are a few examples.
• Polystictus sanguineus was found to contain Polyporin;7
• Grifola confluens was found to contain Grifolin;15
• Polyporus betulinus was found to contain Polyporenic acid A;11
• Polyporus schweintzii and Polyporus hispidus were found to contain Hispidin.2

Further research showed that the anti-bacterial activities of these mushrooms were largely due to polyacetylenes. In time, 50 different polyacetylenes from different mushrooms antagonistic to bacteria were isolated.6

Up to this point, the anti-bacterial components of Grifola frondosa have not been well investigated. We do know that this particular Polypore contains organic acids, saponins, lectins and enzymes.22 These substances have an established antibacterial activity, and it is likely that these substances, along with polyacetylenes, offer some degree of protection from bacterial infection. An independent laboratory is now working on determining the specific anti-bacterial activity of Grifola frondosa.

As mentioned, practitioners believe that Grifola frondosa offers a double protection against opportunistic bacterial infections. The second mode of protection is that of stimulating the specific immune cells responsible for killing bacteria. Grifola frondosa has been shown to boost the activity of macrophages in animal studies:
• Animal studies have shown that Grifola frondosa stimulates the activity and killing ability of monocytes and macrophages, the immune cells responsible for destroying bacteria. These non-specific immune cells move more rapidly and contain more killing substances under its influence.1
• Animal studies revealed that Grifola frondosa stimulated the Alternative Complement System.28 Complements B, P, and D are stimulated under its influence. These complements attach to the bacterial cell wall and accomplish two things. First, they puncture holes in the bacterial cell wall and allow the contents to leak out. Then, the bacteria becomes like a tyre with a puncture. These complements also create ‘handles’ which macrophages use to catch the bacteria.
• In animal studies, Grifola frondosa stimulated the production of Interleukin 1 by macrophages.1 Interleukin stimulates T cells to divide. The increased number of T cells means an increased anti-bacterial task force on the prowl in the body.

C. Anti-Fungal Activity
When one looks at the role that Grifola frondosa plays in opportunistic fungal infection, one finds similar facts to those found in opportunistic bacterial infection. Grifola frondosa contains substances which inhibit pathogenic fungi. Animal studies have shown that Grifola frondosa stimulate the cells of the immune system that attack fungi.

Grifola frondosa is a fungus that springs forth in a world filled with competing fungi. As a survival technique, it fills itself with anti-fungal substances. This anti-fungal feature of fungi is not unique to Grifola frondosa. All mushrooms contain anti-fungal substances to some degree. As an example, the two leading allopathic anti-fungal drugs, Nystatin and Amphotericin B, are derived from ground dwelling fungi. Fungal produced anti-fungal agents are well accepted by the allopathic medical community.

As fungi are so well endowed with anti-fungal substances, the group as a whole has been investigated to find new anti-fungal drugs. The following compounds, extracted from mushrooms, have been shown to have anti-fungal activity:6
• Polyacetylenes;
• Phenolic compounds;
• Purines;
• Pyrimidines;
• Quinones; and
• Terpenoid derivatives.

Candida albicans, a normal resident of the gut, becomes a pathogen in HIV infection. Mushrooms have been found to contain substances that are specifically anti-Candida. The anti-candidal substances found in mushrooms include styrylpyrones, terphenylquinones, and diphenyl-substituted tetronic acids.6

When we look at Grifola frondosa and its anti-fungal activity, we find that it contains substances which inhibit other fungi. The list of anti-fungal substances includes organic acids, phytosterols, lectins, and enzymes. As fungal infections cause serious problems in HIV and AIDS patients, we should look at these anti-fungal compounds rather more closely.

1. Organic Acids Found in Grifola frondosa
Fungi take previously used substances like wood and digest them to fuel their life cycles. Grifola frondosa produces organic acids to be used as solvents in this decomposition process.

Grifola frondosa is rich in Pyroglutamic acid, Lactic acid, Acetic acid, Formic acid, Malic acid, Citric acid, Succinic acid, Oxalic acid, and Fumaric acid.22 Some of these acids, apart from digesting complex materials, inhibit other fungi. For example, Acetic acid has been found to kill fungi.10

2. Phytosterols Found in Grifola frondosa
Grifola frondosa contains substances known as phytosterols, specifically ergosterol, fungisterol, and methylsterol.22 Botanists have long debated the reasons for the presence of sterols in mushrooms.

The answer may be rooted in the ‘kill your neighbour before it kills you’ policy held by most fungi. Phytosterols attack the cell membrane of encroaching fungi and thus inhibit their ability to continue their invasive pursuit. Much like the action of Complement, these phytosterols weaken the cell wall of pathogenic fungi and make them more vulnerable to immune cell attack.

3. Lectins Found in Grifola frondosa
Lectins have the ability to agglutinate, or cause cells to stick together. This agglutination is made possible by the ability of lectins to cause sugars and proteins located on the cell membrane to precipitate. When these compounds have precipitated, the cell is effectively destroyed.

Grifola frondosa contains a lectin known as GFL, a N-acetylgalactosamine specific lectin.22 Botanists suspect that fungi produce lectins as a defensive measure against competing fungi. Any foreign fungus attempting to penetrate neighbouring fungi would be summarily destroyed by the lectins such as GFL.

4. Enzymes Found in Grifola frondosa
Grifola frondosa produces enzymes to assist in the digestion of the wood it feeds upon. Grifola frondosa contains cellulase, hemicellulase, chitinase, amylase, pectinase, lignin, phenol oxidase, laccase, tyrosinase, and peroxidase.22

The most relevant enzyme in this list is chitinase. Chitin is the structural component of a fungal cell wall. The chitinase found in Grifola frondosa digests the chitin found in cell walls of encroaching fungi.

In addition to direct attack, the immune cells that keep bacterial infection under control also attack troublesome fungi. This combined approach may explain Grifola frondosa’s apparent overall anti-fungal action. Practitioners state that opportunistic infections like candida albicans proliferation are greatly reduced when AIDS patients use Grifola frondosa on a regular basis.

D. Anti-Parasitic Activity
Whether or not Grifola frondosa is of use in the treatment of parasite infection is not known. Up to this point, practitioners have not commented on whether it reduces the incidence of opportunistic parasite infection. However, many other traditionally used medicinal mushrooms have been used in parasite infection. Fomitopsis officinalis (Agaric) was widely used in Europe in the treatment of malaria during the colonial period. It was the primary ingredient in ‘Warburg’s tincture’, a specific medicine used to treat the symptoms of malaria, and to keep malaria ‘in remission.’

Phellinus densus, another relative of Grifola frondosa, is used to kill parasites throughout China. Polyporus mylittae is used to treat intestinal worms of several descriptions including tinea.31 Lentinus edodes has been found to inhibit Schistosoma mansoni, Schistosoma japanicum, and Mesoccitoides corti.3

The anti-parasitic activity of medicinal mushrooms may be explained by the immune system stimulating beta-glucans found in them. As has been established, these polysaccharides have been shown to stimulate the immune system in animals. An activated immune system would be better able to attack parasites.

Beyond this, there is evidence indicating that medicinal mushrooms contain substances that attack parasites directly. As an example, Polyporus mylittae, contains a proteinase that is destructive to the cell nucleus of worms. This proteinase literally melts the worms.

Apart from their traditional use in the treatment of parasitic infection, very little is known about the effect of medicinal mushrooms on the parasitic infection experienced by HIV and AIDS patients. Grifola frondosa may or may not play a role in limiting parasitic infection in the HIV patient. Only further research will reveal the answer.

E. Anti-Cancer Activity
The immune system is the body’s first line of defence against cancer. When this control mechanism is lost, cancer cells have the opportunity to grow unchecked. Thus the HIV and AIDS patient is more likely to develop cancer than the person with a competent immune system. Opportunistic cancers are a serious threat to these patients, and any medicine that can inhibit them needs careful evaluation.

Grifola frondosa was elevated out of relative obscurity initially as a result of cancer research. Many of the members of the Polyporaceae family, to which Grifola frondosa belongs, had been used in traditional medicine to treat cancer. As a consequence of this traditional use, the entire family was screened for anti-cancer activity several decades ago and positive results were obtained.

Research with animals established that while members of this fungal family did in fact inhibit cancer, some were more effective than others. Research revealed that mice fed on a diet of Grifola frondosa had an 80% inhibition of the spread of cancer, a better inhibition rate than any of its relatives. The work showed that Grifola frondosa was king of the mushrooms when it came to suppressing the spread of cancer.

In the last 12 years, more than 42 animal studies have been conducted to examine the activity of Grifola frondosa in cancer. These studies have examined the many facets of Grifola frondosa activity. The conclusion from these studies was that Grifola frondosa inhibits cancer through its stimulation of the immune system.

One of the first things researchers did was screen Grifola frondosa for cytotoxic principles. In other words, they looked for substances that killed cancer cells directly. They found none. In time it was concluded that the non-specific immune system, the acquired immune system, and the cellular mediators were responsible for its anti-cancer activity. The immune system itself inhibited the cancer. This is of particular interest, as we know that for cancer to grow in the first instance there must be some level of depressed immunity.

Moreover, cancer cells produce substances that suppress the immune system. The last thing that a colony of cancer cells wants is to be continually attacked by immune cells. Grifola frondosa contains substances that bring the immune system out of dormancy and into action.

On the clinical front, practitioners in America and in Japan have used Grifola frondosa in the treatment of cancer for some years. Practitioners in America working with Grifola frondosa believe that it extends the lifespan of their patients battling cancer. Many practitioners relate that by the time cancer patients have come to see them, they have already been declared terminal by their cancer specialists. They do not come in the early stages of their disease.

Despite this fact, patients using Grifola frondosa have been able to extend their life span beyond the expectations of their specialists. The impact the mushroom would have on people first diagnosed with cancer is unknown. At present, clinical trials examining the role of Grifola frondosa are starting at the Georgetown Medical Centre in Washington, D.C. and at the Cancer Treatment Centres of America. When these studies are concluded we will know more.

Grifola frondosa has been used in HIV related cancers, most notably Kaposi’s sarcoma. Several physicians in America are using it with their patients and are reporting success. Dr. H. Nanba, one of the pioneers in the use of Grifola frondosa for the treatment of cancer, has liased with these American doctors. He had this to say about one doctor’s work with a type of AIDS related cancer, Kaposi’s sarcoma:

I have received an interim report of Dr. J. Priestly’s trial in Pasadena. She has devoted her energies to the treatment of over 600 AIDS patients in Los Angeles and has started her own protocol study using the Grifola frondosa mushroom for her patients with Kaposi’s sarcoma since June, 1993. She clearly observed that this dreadful sarcoma which threatens many AIDS patients is phased out by oral administration of Grifola frondosa, while improving other symptoms of AIDS. She notes that a couple of patients in the study who had received radiation have shown even better remission of the sarcoma after treatment with Grifola frondosa.

One English patient with Kaposi’s sarcoma of long standing, after taking Grifola frondosa, has reported encouraging news. Despite using allopathic combination therapy, his Kaposi’s sarcoma required chemotherapy every three weeks. After taking Grifola frondosa for four months, his cancer had improved such that his physicians extended the chemotherapy to every four weeks, with a view to eventually move the treatments to every six weeks. For a patient requiring less chemotherapy, it is a terribly exciting development.

THE FUTURE OF GRIFOLA FRONDOSA
Up to this point, practitioners working with HIV and Grifola frondosa have insisted that Grifola frondosa makes a difference in their patients’ health. Practitioners report that in some cases T Cell counts rise. In other cases, T Cell counts are maintained when they had been in decline. Other practitioners, working with conditions such as Kaposi’s sarcoma, report that lesions improve considerably while the patient is taking Grifola frondosa. Still others report that HIV and AIDS patients are subject to fewer opportunistic infections while taking this herbal medicine. The reports of these practitioners indicate that more work needs to be done in looking at Grifola frondosa and HIV.

At present, I am conducting a limited study in London. Twenty-five patients with AIDS are being given Grifola frondosa and their conditions are being monitored. These patients will take Grifola frondosa for 12 months, and records of their T Cell counts, viral load, and symptoms will be noted. The study is not randomised, double blind, or controlled. It is a simple study to see if the claims made by practitioners are borne out in a group of patients in the U.K.
The primary object of the study is to learn more about Grifola frondosa in HIV and AIDS. Practitioners are busy people who attend to the needs of patients with little time to sit down and study case histories en masse. The meticulous review of data is the work of researchers. It is the hope of the group involved with the study in London that our work will advance the understanding of Grifola frondosa. The result of the London study is likely to be that further study is required. It is, however, a start.

The study springs from a basic tenet of science: search and research. Lab research first suggested Grifola frondosa (Maitake) might be useful in HIV infection. Practitioners in America believe that it does indeed assist patients survive the virus. This study hopes to further our knowledge of Grifola frondosa and HIV infection. Science is meant to advance knowledge and this study will advance knowledge. It may not be randomised, but by year’s end more will be known about Grifola frondosa and HIV than when the year started.

Grifola frondosa is by definition a benign substance. It has been used as food for centuries. It was the preferred mushroom at the Roman table and is currently the preferred mushroom in Japan. The Japanese consume hundreds of tons of it every week. If the London study shows that it is a food that can help the HIV and AIDS patient, we also know that it is safe without any side effects.

There are a number of non-toxic herbal medicines used in the treatment of HIV and AIDS that need further review. The intrinsic beauty of many of these substances is that they are perfectly non-toxic. Like Grifola frondosa, these substances need further study by the community of phytotherapists.

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Initial Report on Clinical Trial

An Evaluative Study of the Effects of Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake) on the Maintenance of Health of
People Suffering with HIV Infection
_________________________ _________________________ _______________________
Douglas Schar, BA.DipPhyt.MCPP

Abstract

An interim report of a year long study to evaluate the effects of Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni on the health status of individuals suffering from HIV infection. 24 Respondents embarked on the study and 20 are currently still in process. All respondents are followed up at monthly intervals by telephone in order to monitor the HIV states reflected by CD4 counts, viral load measures, concomitant conditions, and general wellbeing. To date, fourteen respondents reported increases in CD4 counts and six have reported decreases in CD4 counts. In regards viral load counts, five reported a decrease in viral load, nine reported an increase in viral load, and six reported a static viral load. In regards concomitant conditions, seventeen reported resolution of previously described conditions, one reported a worsening of conditions, and one reported no change in conditions. In regards perception of well being, seventeen respondents reported an increase in sense of well being, two reported a decrease in sense of well being, and one reported no change in sense of well being. The study indicated that Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni made a positive impact on the health of individual suffering from HIV infection and warrants additional examination as a potential anti-HIV drug.

Contact Information:
Douglas Schar, BA.DipPhyt.MCPP
140 Columbia Road
London E2 7RG
Phone: 0171 729 5545
Fax: 0171 729 9161
Introduction

Acquired Immuno-deficiency Syndrome (HIV and AIDS)
AIDS is a disease characterised by infection from the human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) which results in gradual destruction of the individual’s immune system mechanisms, thereby allowing the development of other conditions which, ultimately, become life threatening. These secondary diseases are termed opportunistic infections and include Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, tuberculosis, cytomegalovirus, central nervous system toxoplasmosis and Kaposi’s sarcoma.

Mechanisms of Infection
HIV transmission is almost entirely through blood to blood contact, but can also be passed on via semen and vaginal secretions. Infection mostly occurs through sexual contact but can also result from transfusion of infected blood or intravenous injection with infected needles. It can also be passed from mother to child before, during or after birth via the placenta or breast milk.

The virus depends for its survival on taking over a host cell and utilising its nutritive and reproductive functions in order to replicate itself. Once reproduced it spreads to other cells, destroying the host cells in the process. Meanwhile, the normal immune response is triggered to produce antibodies to the invading virus. These antibodies act against the host cells as well as the virus resulting in a two fold attack on the body.

The main target cell for the invading virus is the helper “T” cell. These cells are a vital part of the immune system responsible for stimulating both the production of antibodies and the destruction of infected cells. When these cells are damaged by HIV infection the immune system collapses and opportunistic infections gain entry to the system.

There are three stages of the disease.

1. Seroconversion.
Seroconversion which is the reaction of the body to the invading virus and production of antibodies. There may be transitory flu like symptoms and swollen glands at this stage.

2. Dormant Period.
A dormant period follows. The time span of this period is variable and can be affected by the individuals constitution, life style and psychological outlook. Statistics suggest that this stage is approximately ten years. During this time the individual is “body positive” and infective. There is a greater susceptibility to general ill health and particularly to opportunistic infection.

3. Final Stage
The final stage of HIV infection, AIDS, is characterised by almost total collapse of the immune system and infection by secondary disease which is, eventually fatal.

Methods of Assessment

The main focus for monitoring the progress of HIV disease is to measure the CD4 count (T helper cells) and the viral load. The normal CD4 count has a range from 500-1200. A level between 500-200 indicates that some damage has occurred. Below 200, the individual is highly susceptible to the previously mentioned secondary diseases. The viral load test measures the amount of HIV in the blood. The higher the viral load the greater the risk of damage to the T cells.

Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni

Research has shown that traditionally used medicinal mushrooms have a positive effect on general health. Maitake in particular, contains many essential vitamins and minerals as well as a host of other compounds that stimulate health. In animal studies it has been shown to :

 reduce “bad” blood cholesterol levels

 reduce blood pressure

 reduce blood sugar levels

 increase the production of white blood cells including NK cells.

 increase the activity of white blood cells.

 increase the production of cellular mediators like interleukin and interferon.

The most significant of these activities in regards HIV infection relate to the immune system. Both interleukin I and interferon are activated as a part of the immune systems response to infection by viral disease, and serve to enhance the protective mechanisms of the body against viruses. They demonstrate both antiproliferative and immunomodulatory effects. In recent years Maitake has gained popularity in the treatment of viral diseases including hepatitis, HIV, genital warts, and Epstein Barr infection.
Purpose of the Study

This year long evaluative study was instituted to provide a preliminary assessment of the effects of Grifola frondosa on the health status and general well being of people suffering from HIV infection. Factors monitored were CD4 count, viral load, individual symptoms, energy levels, and mood. Acknowledging that psychological factors and stress may have a negative effect on the way individuals cope with their illness, the evaluation was conducted in a low key and informal manner, and as far as possible, not demanding changes to their normal programme. To this end the study attempted to reflect their every day lives and how the course of the disease impacted on this.

Methods

Twenty-four individuals responded to an invitation to join the study and at present, nineteen are still in participating. The nature of the external variables were wide ranging including general health, time of diagnosis, life style factors, and orthodox treatment. For this reason the case study format was chosen for the assessment method.

A detailed medical history was taken, recording the progress of the condition to date demonstrated by CD4 counts, viral load and symptoms of concomitant conditions. The history of orthodox treatment was also recorded. A supply of Grifola frondosa was given to each respondent at a dose level of 24 tablets per day (6 grams). Telephone contact was made at approximately monthly intervals to monitor the above factors and sense of overall wellbeing as reflected by energy levels and psychological outlook. Changes in orthodox treatment were also recorded at during phone interviews. Results

Participant One
Initial CD4 count: 90
CD4 counts during study: 200-360-400-460
Average CD4 count: 355

Viral Load: undetectable throughout study

Previous Symptoms: kaposi’s sarcoma; pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, allergic conjunctivitis.

Symptoms During Study Period: All symptoms resolved and remained controlled.

Well Being: Consistently reported feeling very well. Positive in mood. Energy levels much improved.

Combination Therapy: Yes.

Participant Two
Initial CD4 Count: 400
CD4 Counts during study: 600-620
Average CD4 Count during Study: 610

Viral Load: 20,000-27,000

Previous Symptoms: anal warts, veruccas, gum infections, lipomas on body.

Symptoms During Study Period: symptoms persisted but of less intensity. Gum infections resolved.

Well Being: generally felt well and had good energy levels.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant Three
Initial CD4 Count: 320
CD4 counts during study: 340-210-380
Average CD4 count during study: 310

Viral Load: 5000-15,200

Previous Symptoms: Kaposi’s sarcoma, verrucas, anal warts, anal herpes, diarrhoea, chest infections, fatigue.

Symptoms During Study Period: KS became static, verrucas and anal warts resolved, other symptoms became intermittent.

Well Being: fatigue persisted but feels more positive and less despondent. Feels better since taking the Maitake.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant Four
Initial CD4 Count: 510
CD4 counts during study: 500
Average CD4 count during study: 500

Viral Load: 60,000-3,400-10,00

Previous Symptoms: day and night sweats, bouts of colds and flu, eczema.

Symptoms During Study Period: all symptoms resolved. Noticed a direct effect on the sweats by taking Maitake.

Well Being: Improved sense of well being.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant Five
Initial CD4 Count: 180
CD4 count during study: 220-240-300
Average CD4 count during study: 253.3

Viral Load: undetectable throughout.

Previous Symptoms: gastric candida, fatigue, peripheral neuropathy, mucous membrane irritation.

Symptoms During Study Period: peripheral neuropathy intermittent, other symptoms resolved. Developed bronchitis but this resolved.

Well Being: Generally feeling well. Energy levels much improved. Appetite and weight increasing. Feels Maitake has been extremely beneficial.

Combination Therapy: Yes.

Participant Six
Initial CD4 Count: 350
CD4 count during study: 290-260
Average CD4 count during study: 275

Viral Load: 5000-3000-10,000

Previous Symptoms: dry skin, oral and anal herpes, occasional chest infections, fatigue.

Symptoms During Study Period: skin improved and chest infections resolved.

Well Being: Feels well. Energy improved. mood variable.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant Seven
Initial CD4 Count: 256
CD4 count during study: 163-200
Average CD4 count during study: 181.5

Viral Load: 200,000-1,000,000

Previous Symptoms: skin, oral, and gastric candida, genital warts, catarrh, irritable bowel, fatigue, aching muscles.

Symptoms During Study Period: all symptoms improved. Respiratory problems developed and required hospitalisation.

Well Being: initially felt very well in herself, more positive. Energy levels improved. Lately, developed severe respiratory problems, which reversed the progress.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant Eight
Initial CD4 Count: 425
CD4 count during study: 360-500-680
Average CD4 count during study: 513.3

Viral Load: 20,000-100,000-93,000

Previous Symptoms: fatigue, insomnia, respiratory problems, oral herpes, occasional disorientation, depression.

Symptoms During Study Period: All symptoms improved.

Well Being: Feels Maitake helps his general wellbeing. Feels more positive. Energy much improved.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant Nine
Initial CD4 Count: 560
CD4 count during study: 600-680
Average CD4 count during study: 640

Viral Load: 56,000-22,000-92,000

Previous Symptoms: occasional diarrhoea, night sweats, insomnia.

Symptoms During Study Period: all symptoms resolved.

Well Being: feels well, energy improved, appetite and weight increasing.

Combination Therapy: Yes.

Participant Ten
Initial CD4 Count: 280
CD4 counts during study: 560-570
Average CD4 count during study: 565

Viral Load: 1,700-40,000-undetectable

Previous Symptoms: intermittent flu like symptoms, colds, dry cough, hot sweats, irritable bowel, breathlessness, fatigue.

Symptoms During Study Period: all symptoms resolved.

Well Being: feels much more positive, energy much improved. Feels very positive about Maitake.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant 11
Initial CD4 Count: 190
CD4 counts during study: 220-394
Average CD4 count during study: 307

Viral Load:5000-undetectable-50 00

Previous Symptoms: recurrent colds and flu, occasional headaches, fatigue, panic attacks.

Symptoms During Study Period: symptoms improved. intermittent colds. energy variable.

Well Being: states he feels an enhanced sense of well being while taking Maitake despite energy levels being variable.

Combination Therapy: Yes.

Participant 12
Initial CD4 Count:510
CD4 counts during study: 562
Average CD4 count during study: 562

Viral Load: 33,000-28,000

Previous Symptoms: generalised painful lymphadenopathy, hairy leukoplakia, gum disease.

Symptoms During Study Period: all symptoms resolved.

Well Being: feels generally very well and that Maitake helps. Energy levels improved.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant 13
Initial CD4 Count: 17
CD4 counts during study: 7
Average CD4 count during study: 7

Viral Load: 55,000-62,000

Previous Symptoms: AIDS, oral candida, bronchitis, irritable bowel, wasting disease, poor appetite, and weight loss.

Symptoms During Study Period: bronchitis resolved, appetite improved and some weight gain, other symptoms persist.

Well Being: feeling generally well in himself relatively speaking. Feels better than previously. Energy variable.

Combination Therapy: Yes.

Participant 14
Initial CD4 Count: 634
CD4 counts during study: 550
Average CD4 count during study: 550

Viral Load: 8,020-14,000-21,000

Previous Symptoms: recurrent flu like symptoms, fatigue, swollen glands, headaches, sweats.

Symptoms During Study Period: all symptoms resolved but developed kidney infection which then cleared.

Well Being: no real change. Energy levels remain low.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant 16
Initial CD4 Count: 375
CD4 counts during study: 730
Average CD4 count during study: 730

Viral Load: undetectable

Previous Symptoms: Kaposi’s sarcoma, breathlessness.

Symptoms During Study Period: KS improving. No other symptoms.

Well Being: Feels well and positive. Energy levels improved.

Combination Therapy: Yes.

Participant 20
Initial CD4 Count: 380
CD4 counts during study: 520-380-450
Average CD4 count during study: 450

Viral Load: 12,000-1,200-4000

Previous Symptoms: recurrent chest infections, oral herpes.

Symptoms During Study Period: symptoms resolved. Developed other infection which resolved. Also diarrhoea which never resolved.

Well Being: feels generally well in himself. No change in energy.
Combination Therapy: No.

Participant 21
Initial CD4 Count: 205
CD4 count during study: 200
Average CD4 count during study: 200

Viral Load: 606-1600

Previous Symptoms: occasional night sweats.

Symptoms During Study Period: no symptoms.

Well Being: feels well. Energy levels good.

Combination Therapy: Yes.

Participant 22
Initial CD4 Count: 502
CD4 counts during study: 669-593
Average CD4 counts during study: 631

Viral Load: 14,000-18,252-7,918

Previous Symptoms: oral herpes, fatigue.

Symptoms During Study Period: Symptoms resolved.

Well Being: Feels more positive. Energy levels improved.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant 23
Initial CD4 Count: 150. Results have varied. Now improved.
CD4 count during study: n/a
Average CD4 count during study: n/a.

Respondent prefers not to know figures.

Viral Load: 26,000- as above.

Previous Symptoms: fatigue, weakness, spinal and anal herpes, episodic shingles.

Symptoms During Study Period: symptoms initially improved then returned.

Well Being: general improvement until recently when condition deteriorated. Improving again now.

Combination Therapy: No.

Participant 24
Initial CD4 Count:400
CD4 counts during study: 580-597
Average CD4 count during study: 588.5

Viral Load: undetectable throughout.

Previous Symptoms: involuntary movement disorder.

Symptoms During Study Period: no change in this condition.

Well Being: feels the Maitake has greatly improved his general wellbeing. Energy levels much improved.

Combination Therapy: Yes.

Discussion

It is difficult to draw standardised conclusions from a study such as this, which reflects on individual cases. There is evidence, however, to suggest that Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni, in many cases, has made a positive contribution to the impact of HIV infection on the general health and well being of respondents.

CD4 Counts

14 respondents reported an increase and 6 reported a decrease.

Increase in CD4 count: 70%
Decrease in CD4 count: 30%

Viral Load

5 respondents reported a decrease in viral load, 9 reported an increase in viral load, and 6 reported a static viral load.

Decrease in viral load: 25%
Increase in viral load: 45%
Static viral load: 30%
Net positive reaction: 55%*

*As viral loads tend to increase with the passage of time, both the decrease in viral load and the reported static viral load are seen as positive responses to the Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni.

Symptoms

18 of the respondents reported a resolution or lessening of symptoms they had previously been experiencing. Periodically, other symptoms flared up but mostly remained controlled and then resolved. 2 respondents developed severe infections which required hospitalisation. Both are now recovering. The most common symptoms reported were:

1. fatigue
2. recurrent chest infections
3. irritable bowel
4. day and or night sweats.

Resolution or improvement in 1,2,and 3 was noted in all but one case. Resolution of 4 was noted in all cases.

Improvement in symptoms: 90%
Worsening of symptoms: 5%
No change in symptoms: 5%

Well being: 17 respondents reported a significant improvement in their sense of well being which was reflected in increased energy levels and positive psychological outlook. 2 reported a worsening in the sense of wellbeing. 1 reported no change in the sense of well being.

Increase sense of well being: 85%
Decrease in sense of Well being: 10%
No change in sense of well being: 5%

Conclusion

In 1990, the National Cancer Institute in America determined that Grifola frondosa gave 100% protection to uninfected T cells exposed to the HIV virus in the test tube. In consequence, practitioners in America began using Grifola frondosa in HIV infection and AIDS. They reported positive results. The practitioner confidence in Grifola frondosa lead our group of researchers to examine Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni as a potential anti-HIV drug.

This study monitored individual responses with individual variables over a course of time to Grifola frondosa var.Yukiguni. Of the 20 participants involved in the study, a majority of cases experienced an increase in CD4 count, a positive reaction in regards viral load, a reduction of symptoms, and an increase in sense of well being. The result was overwhelmingly positive.

On the clinical side, the patients using Grifola frondosa var.Yukiguni experienced a resolution of the opportunistic conditions previously experienced. It must be remembered that it is these opportunistic conditions that cause mortality in the HIV and AIDS patient, not the virus itself. In one case, Kaposi’s sarcoma, which did not yield to combination therapy or chemotherapy, did resolve when Grifola frondosa var.Yukiguni was thrown into the equation. This finding alone suggests additional research is warranted.

The positive result of this study results in many questions being raised, questions that beg answering. As an example, one such issue is dosage. The patients involved in this study were using 8 milligrams of tableted dried Grifola frondosa var.Yukiguni powder. This amount was used as the experts in the field, both in Japan and America, recommend 6 or more milligrams per day for people with serious illness, Cancer and HIV infection included. It would be useful to know the exact therapeutic threshold for the Grifola frondosa var.Yukiguni. Additional research might shed light on this matter.

Beyond this, the subjects of this preliminary study were chosen in a random manner and the population reflects this fact. 12 subjects were not using combination therapy and 8 were using combination therapy. In the future, it would be helpful to examine these different populations separately.

The reason for this is as follows. In this study we have noticed that patients using combination therapy and Grifola frondosa var.Yukiguni suffer from fewer side effects of the combination therapy regimen. Patients seem better able to cope with the drug therapies. This observation is consistent with that which cancer workers have noticed. Patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy appear better able to tolerate the regimens while using Grifola frondosa var.Yukiguni. As many patients are unable to tolerate combination therapy due to unpleasant side effects, a determination in this direction would be highly useful.

All of the above indicates that there is evidence to support a more structured investigation into the potential benefits of Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni as a contributing agent in the treatment of HIV disease. The result also suggests that this work needs to be done as many questions remain unanswered. It is the hope of this research group that this study will inspire other workers to examine Grifola frondosa as a potential anti-HIV drug.

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Final Report on Clinical Trial

An Evaluative Study of the Effects
of Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake)
on the Maintenance of Health
of People Suffering with HIV Infection

Rosamond Christian, RGN, RM, DipBSS,
Douglas Schar, BA DipPhyt. MCPP,
and Denise Turner, Ph.D.

ABSTRACT

This report evaluates a year long study focusing on the effects of Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni on the health status of individuals suffering from HIV infection. Twenty-four respondents embarked on the study and 20 remained in the study for the entire twelve month duration. All respondents were followed up at monthly intervals by telephone to monitor their HIV status as reflected by CD4 counts, viral load measures, concomitant conditions, and general well being. The overall results of this preliminary study are as follows:
• CD4 counts: Thirteen respondents reported increases in CD4 counts and seven have reported decreases in CD4 counts.
• Viral load: Five reported a decrease in viral load, six reported a static viral load, and nine reported an increase in viral load.
• Concomitant Conditions: Seventeen reported resolution or improvement of previously described conditions, two reported no change of conditions, and one reported no symptoms.
• Well being: Seventeen respondents reported an increase in sense of well being, two reported no change in sense of well being, and one reported a decrease in sense of well being.

The study indicated that Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake) made a positive impact on the health of individuals suffering from HIV infection and warrants additional examination as a potential anti-HIV drug.

INTRODUCTION: ACQUIRED IMMUNO-DEFICIENCY SYNDROME (HIV AND AIDS)

AIDS is a disease characterised by infection from the human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV) which results in gradual destruction of the individual’s immune system mechanisms, thereby allowing the development of other conditions which, ultimately, become life threatening. These secondary diseases are termed opportunistic infections and include Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, tuberculosis, cytomegalovirus, central nervous system toxoplasmosis and Kaposi’s sarcoma.

MECHANISMS OF INFECTION

HIV transmission is almost entirely through blood to blood contact, but can also be passed on via semen and vaginal secretions. Infection mostly occurs through sexual contact but can also result from transfusion of infected blood or intravenous injection with infected needles. It can also be passed from mother to child before, during or after birth via the placenta or breast milk.

To survive, the virus must take over a host cell and utilise its nutritive and reproductive functions to replicate itself. Once reproduced it spreads to other cells, destroying the host cells in the process. Meanwhile, the normal immune response is triggered to produce antibodies to the invading virus. These antibodies act against the host cells as well as the virus resulting in a two-fold attack on the body.

The main target cell for the invading virus is the helper “T” cell. These cells are a vital part of the immune system responsible for stimulating both the production of antibodies and the destruction of infected cells. When these cells are damaged by HIV infection, the immune system collapses and opportunistic infections gain entry to the system.

There are three stages of the disease:
1. Seroconversion: seroconversion is the reaction of the body to the invading virus and production of antibodies. There may be transitory flu-like symptoms and swollen glands at this stage.
2. Dormant Period: a dormant period follows seroconversion. The time span of this period is variable and can be affected by the individual’s constitution, life style and psychological outlook. Statistics suggest that this stage lasts approximately ten years. During this time the individual is “body positive” and infective. There is a greater susceptibility to general ill health and particularly to opportunistic infection.
3. Final Stage: the final stage of HIV infection, AIDS, is characterised by almost total collapse of the immune system and infection by secondary disease which is eventually fatal.

METHODS OF ASSESSMENT

The main focus for monitoring the progress of HIV disease is to measure the CD4 count (T helper cells) and the viral load. The normal CD4 count ranges from 500-1200. A level between 200-500 indicates that some damage has occurred. Below 200, the individual is highly susceptible to the previously mentioned secondary diseases. The viral load test measures the amount of HIV in the blood. The higher the viral load, the greater the risk of damage to the T cells.

GRIFOLA FRONDOSA VAR. YUKIGUNI (MAITAKE)

Research has shown that traditionally used medicinal mushrooms have a positive effect on general health. Maitake in particular, contains many essential vitamins and minerals as well as a host of other compounds that stimulate health. In animal studies it has been shown to:
• Reduce “bad” blood cholesterol levels;
• Reduce blood pressure;
• Reduce blood sugar levels;
• Increase the production of white blood cells including NK cells;
• Increase the activity of white blood cells; and
• Increase the production of cellular mediators like interleukin and interferon.

The most significant of these activities with regard to HIV infection relates to the immune system. Both interleukin I and interferon are activated as a part of the immune system’s response to infection by viral disease, and serve to enhance the protective mechanisms of the body against viruses. They demonstrate both antiproliferative and immunomodulatory effects. In recent years Maitake has gained popularity in the treatment of viral diseases including hepatitis, HIV, genital warts, and Epstein Barr infection.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

This twelve month evaluative study was instituted to provide a preliminary assessment of the effects of Grifola frondosa on the health status and general well being of people suffering from HIV infection. Factors monitored were CD4 count, viral load, individual symptoms, energy levels, and mood. Acknowledging that psychological factors and stress may have a negative effect on the way individuals cope with their illness, the evaluation was conducted in a low key and informal manner, and as far as possible, not demanding changes to participants’ normal programme. To this end the study attempted to reflect participants’ every day lives and how they have been impacted by the course of the disease.

METHODS

Twenty-four individuals responded to an invitation to join the study and twenty remained in the study for the entire twelve month duration. The nature of the external variables were wide ranging, including general health, time of diagnosis, life style factors, and orthodox treatment. For this reason a case study format was chosen for the assessment method.

Before treatment was started, a detailed medical history was taken of each participant, recording the progress of the condition to date demonstrated by CD4 counts, viral load and symptoms of concomitant conditions. The history of orthodox treatment was also recorded. A supply of Grifola frondosa was given to each respondent at a dosage of 24 tablets per day (6 grams). Telephone contact was made at approximately monthly intervals to monitor the above factors and sense of overall well being as reflected by energy levels and psychological outlook. Changes in orthodox treatment were also recorded during phone interviews.

RESULTS

Participant 1
Initial CD4 count: 90
CD4 counts during study: 200; 360; 400; 460; 410
Average CD4 count: 366
Viral load: undetectable throughout study.
Previous symptoms: Kaposi’s sarcoma; pneumocystis carinii pneumonia; allergic conjunctivitis.
Symptoms during study period: all symptoms resolved and remained controlled; had chemotherapy for Kaposi’s sarcoma, but since starting Maitake was able to stop chemotherapy.
Well being: consistently reported feeling very well; positive in mood; energy levels much improved.
Combination therapy: yes.

Participant 2
Initial CD4 count: 400
CD4 counts during study: 600; 620
Average CD4 count during study: 610
Viral load: 20,000; 27,000
Previous symptoms: anal warts, veruccas, gum infections, lipomas on body.
Symptoms during study period: symptoms persisted but of less intensity; gum infections resolved.
Well being: generally felt well and had good energy levels.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 3
Initial CD4 count: 320
CD4 counts during study: 340; 210; 380
Average CD4 count during study: 310
Viral load: 5000; 15,200
Previous symptoms: Kaposi’s sarcoma, verrucas, anal warts, anal herpes, diarrhea, chest infections, fatigue.
Symptoms during study period: Kaposi’s sarcoma became static, verrucas and anal warts resolved, other symptoms became intermittent.
Well being: fatigue persisted but feels more positive and less despondent; feels better since taking Maitake.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 4
Initial CD4 count: 510
CD4 counts during study: 500
Average CD4 count during study: 500
Viral load: 60,000; 3,400; 10,000
Previous symptoms: day and night sweats, bouts of colds and flu, eczema.
Symptoms during study period: all symptoms resolved; noticed a direct effect on the sweats by taking Maitake.
Well being: improved sense of well being.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 5
Initial CD4 count: 180
CD4 count during study: 220; 240; 300; 260
Average CD4 count during study: 255
Viral load: undetectable throughout.
Previous symptoms: gastric candida, fatigue, peripheral neuropathy, mucous membrane irritation.
Symptoms during study period: peripheral neuropathy intermittent, other symptoms resolved. Developed bronchitis but this resolved.
Well being: generally feeling well; energy levels much improved; appetite and weight increasing; feels Maitake has been extremely beneficial.
Combination therapy: yes.

Participant 6
Initial CD4 count: 350
CD4 count during study: 290; 260
Average CD4 count during study: 275
Viral load: 5,000; 3,000; 10,000
Previous symptoms: dry skin, oral and anal herpes, occasional chest infections, fatigue.
Symptoms during study period: skin improved and chest infections resolved.
Well being: feels well; energy improved; mood variable.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 7
Initial CD4 count: 256
CD4 count during study: 163; 200
Average CD4 count during study: 182
Viral load: 200,000; 1,000,000
Previous symptoms: skin, oral, and gastric candida, genital warts, catarrh, irritable bowel, fatigue, aching muscles.
Symptoms during study period: all symptoms improved. Respiratory problems developed and required hospitalisation.
Well being: initially felt very well, more positive. Energy levels improved. Lately, developed severe respiratory problems, which reversed the progress.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 8
Initial CD4 count: 425
CD4 count during study: 360; 500; 680; 304
Average CD4 count during study: 461
Viral load: 20,000; 100,000; 93,000
Previous symptoms: fatigue, insomnia, respiratory problems, oral herpes, occasional disorientation, depression.
Symptoms during study period: all symptoms improved.
Well being: feels Maitake helps general well being. Feels more positive. Energy much improved.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 9
Initial CD4 count: 560
CD4 count during study: 600; 680; 490
Average CD4 count during study: 590
Viral load: 56,000; 22,000; 92,000
Previous symptoms: occasional diarrhoea, night sweats, insomnia.
Symptoms during study period: all symptoms resolved.
Well being: feels well, energy improved, appetite and weight increasing.
Combination therapy: yes.

Participant 10
Initial CD4 count: 280
CD4 counts during study: 560; 570; 545
Average CD4 count during study: 558
Viral load: 1,700; 40,000; undetectable
Previous symptoms: intermittent flu like symptoms, colds, dry cough, hot sweats, irritable bowel, breathlessness, fatigue.
Symptoms during study period: all symptoms resolved.
Well being: feels much more positive, energy much improved. Feels very positive about Maitake.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 11
Initial CD4 count: 190
CD4 counts during study: 220; 394
Average CD4 count during study: 307
Viral load: 5,000; undetectable; 5000
Previous symptoms: recurrent colds and flu, occasional headaches, fatigue, panic attacks.
Symptoms during study period: symptoms improved; intermittent colds; energy variable.
Well being: feels an enhanced sense of well being while taking Maitake despite energy levels being variable.
Combination therapy: yes.

Participant 12
Initial CD4 count: 510
CD4 counts during study: 562; 527
Average CD4 count during study: 544
Viral load: 33,000; 28,000; 550,000
Previous symptoms: generalised painful lymphadenopathy, hairy leukoplakia, gum disease.
Symptoms during study period: all symptoms resolved.
Well being: feels generally very well and that Maitake helps. Energy levels improved.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 13
Initial CD4 count: 17
CD4 counts during study: 7
Average CD4 count during study: 7
Viral load: 55,000; 62,000
Previous symptoms: AIDS, oral candida, bronchitis, irritable bowel, wasting disease, poor appetite, and weight loss.
Symptoms during study period: bronchitis resolved, appetite improved and some weight gain, other symptoms persist.
Well being: feeling generally well, relatively speaking. Feels better than previously. Energy variable.
Combination therapy: yes.

Participant 14
Initial CD4 Count: 634
CD4 counts during study: 550; 510
Average CD4 count during study: 530
Viral load: 8,000; 14,000; 21,000; 24,000
Previous symptoms: recurrent flu like symptoms, fatigue, swollen glands, headaches, sweats.
Symptoms during study period: all symptoms resolved but developed kidney infection which then cleared.
Well being: no real change; energy levels remain low.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 16
Initial CD4 count: 375
CD4 counts during study: 730
Average CD4 count during study: 730
Viral load: undetectable
Previous symptoms: Kaposi’s sarcoma, breathlessness.
Symptoms during study period: Kaposi sarcoma improving; no other symptoms.
Well being: Feels well and positive; energy levels improved.
Combination therapy: yes.

Participant 20
Initial CD4 count: 380
CD4 counts during study: 520; 380; 450
Average CD4 count during study: 450
Viral load: 12,000; 1,200; 4,000
Previous symptoms: recurrent chest infections, oral herpes.
Symptoms during study period: symptoms resolved; developed other infection which resolved; also diarrhoea which never resolved.
Well being: feels generally well; no change in energy.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 21
Initial CD4 count: 205
CD4 count during study: 200; 250
Average CD4 count during study: 225
Viral load: 600; 1,600; undetectable
Previous symptoms: occasional night sweats.
Symptoms during study period: no symptoms.
Well being: feels well; energy levels good.
Combination therapy: yes.

Participant 22
Initial CD4 count: 502
CD4 counts during study: 669; 593
Average CD4 counts during study: 631
Viral load: 14,000; 18,250; 7,900
Previous symptoms: oral herpes, fatigue.
Symptoms during study period: symptoms resolved.
Well being: feels more positive; energy levels improved.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 23
Initial CD4 count: 150. results have varied; now improved.
CD4 count during study: n/a
Average CD4 count during study: n/a. respondent prefers not to know figures.
Viral load: 26,000 – as above.
Previous symptoms: fatigue, weakness, spinal and anal herpes, episodic shingles.
Symptoms during study period: symptoms initially improved then returned.
Well being: general improvement until recently when condition deteriorated; improving again now.
Combination therapy: no.

Participant 24
Initial CD4 count: 400
CD4 counts during study: 580; 597; 560
Average CD4 count during study: 579
Viral load: undetectable throughout.
Previous symptoms: involuntary movement disorder.
Symptoms during study period: no change in this condition.
Well being: feels that Maitake has greatly improved general well being; energy levels much improved.
Combination therapy: yes.

DISCUSSION

It is difficult to draw standardised conclusions from a study such as this which reflects on individual cases. There is evidence, however, to suggest that Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake), in many cases, has made a positive contribution to the impact of HIV infection on the general health and well being of respondents.

CD4 COUNTS (SEE TABLE 1)

Based on the raw numbers alone, 13 respondents reported an increase and 7 reported a decrease:
• Raw increase in CD4 count: 65%
• Raw decrease in CD4 count: 35%
• Raw net positive CD4 reaction: 65%.*

*As CD4 counts tend to decrease with progress of the disease, both increased CD4 counts and sustained CD4 counts are seen as positive responses to the Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake).

Based on a reasonable assessment that +100 represents no significant change in a CD4 count, 6 respondents improved, 12 sustained their CD4 levels, and 2 trialees showed a slight decrease in CD4 levels (maximum decrease 124, See Table 1):
• Significant increase of CD4 count: 30%
• Significant maintenance of CD4 counts: 60%
• Significant decrease in CD4 count: 10%
• Significant net positive CD4 reaction: 90%.

Table1: CD4 Counts for Study Participants

Participant Initial CD4 Count Final CD4 Count Comments
1 90 410 Improved
2 400 620 improved
3 320 380 sustained
4 510 500 sustained
5 180 260 sustained
6 350 260 sustained
7 256 200 sustained
8 425 304 decreased
9 560 490 sustained
10 280 545 improved
11 190 394 improved
12 510 527 sustained
13 17 7 sustained
14 634 510 decreased
16 375 730 improved
20 380 450 sustained
21 205 250 sustained
22 502 593 sustained
23 150 150* sustained
24 400 560 improved
* Results have varied; now improved.

VIRAL LOAD (SEE TABLE 2)

Based on the raw numbers alone, 5 respondents reported a decrease in viral load, 6 reported a static viral load, and 9 reported an increase in viral load;
• Raw decrease in viral load: 25%
• Raw static viral load: 30%
• Raw increase in viral load: 45%
• Net raw positive viral load reaction: 55%.*

*As viral loads tend to increase with the passage of time, both the decrease in viral load and the reported static viral load are seen as positive responses to the Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake).

However, based on data from the National Aids Manual “Viral Load, Information Series for Positive People,” the margin of error for viral load tests is fairly large. In fact, to quote from this source, “Researchers have investigated viral load changes in people not on treatment and found that two separate tests on the same sample of blood can give results which differ by as much as three fold.”

Using these criteria, 1 respondent reported a decrease in viral load, 16 reported a static viral load, and 3 showed an increase in viral load:
• Significant decrease in viral load: 5%
• Significant static viral load:80%
• Significant increase in viral load: 15%
• Significant net positive reaction: 85%.

Table 2: Viral Load of Study Participants

Participant Initial Viral Load Final Viral Load Comments
1 undetectable undetectable sustained
2 20,000 27,000 sustained
3 5,000 15,200 sustained
4 60,000 10,000 improved
5 undetectable undetectable sustained
6 5,000 10,000 sustained
7 200,000 1,000,000 increased
8 20,000 93,000 increased
9 56,000 92,000 sustained
10 1,700 undetectable sustained
11 5,000 5,000 sustained
12 33,000 550,000 increased
13 55,000 62,000 sustained
14 8,000 24,000 sustained
16 undetectable undetectable sustained
20 12,000 4,000 sustained
21 600 undetectable sustained
22 14,000 7,900 sustained
23 26,000 26,000* sustained
24 undetectable undetectable sustained
*Results have varied; now improved.

CONCOMITANT CONDITIONS

Seventeen of the respondents reported a resolution or lessening of symptoms they had previously been experiencing, and one reported no change. Periodically, other symptoms flared up but mostly remained controlled and then resolved. Two respondents developed severe infections which required hospitalisation. Both are now recovering. The most common symptoms reported were:
1. Fatigue;
2. Recurrent chest infections;
3. Irritable bowel;
4. Day and or night sweats.

Resolution or improvement in symptoms 1, 2, and 3 was noted in all but one case. Resolution of symptom 4 was noted in all cases.
• Improvement in symptoms: 90%
• Worsening of symptoms: 5%
• No change in symptoms: 5%
• Net overall positive reaction: 95%.

WELL BEING

Seventeen respondents reported a significant improvement in their sense of well being which was reflected in increased energy levels and positive psychological outlook. Two reported a worsening in the sense of well being. One reported no change in the sense of well being.
• Increased sense of well being: 85%
• Decreased in sense of well being: 10%
• No change in sense of well being: 5%
• Net overall positive reaction: 90%.

CONCLUSION

In 1990, the National Cancer Institute in America determined that Grifola frondosa gave 100% protection to uninfected T cells exposed to the HIV virus in the test tube. In consequence, practitioners in America began using Grifola frondosa in HIV infection and AIDS. They reported positive results. This practitioner confidence in Grifola frondosa lead our group of researchers to examine Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake) as a potential anti-HIV drug.

This study monitored individual responses with individual variables over a course of time to Grifola frondosa var.Yukiguni (Maitake). Of the 20 participants involved in the study, a majority of cases experienced an increase in CD4 count, a positive reaction with regard to viral load, a reduction of symptoms, and an increase in sense of well being. The result was overwhelmingly positive.

On the clinical side, the participants using Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake) experienced a resolution of the opportunistic conditions previously experienced. It must be remembered that it is these opportunistic conditions that cause mortality in the HIV and AIDS patient, not the virus itself. In one case, Kaposi’s sarcoma, which did not yield to combination therapy or chemotherapy, did resolve when Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake) was added to the equation. This finding alone suggests additional research is warranted.

The positive result of this study generates many questions that beg to be answered. As an example, one such issue is dosage. The patients involved in this study were using 8 milligrams per day of tableted dried Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake) powder, based on Japanese and American recommendations of 6 or more milligrams per day for people with serious illness such as cancer and HIV infection. It would be useful to know the exact therapeutic threshold for the Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake). Additional research might shed light on this matter.

Beyond this, the subjects of this preliminary study were chosen in a random manner and the population reflects this fact. Twelve subjects were not using combination therapy and eight were using combination therapy. In the future, it would be helpful to examine these different populations separately, since this limited study seemed to indicate that patients using combination therapy and Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake) suffer fewer side effects from the combination therapy regimen. These patients seem better able to cope with the drug therapies. This observation is consistent with reports that cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy appear better able to tolerate these regimens while using Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake). As many patients are unable to tolerate combination therapy due to unpleasant side effects, a complete assessment of the “protective” effects of Grifola frondosa would be highly useful.

All of the above indicates that there is evidence to support a more structured investigation into the potential benefits of Grifola frondosa var. Yukiguni (Maitake) as a contributing agent in the treatment of HIV disease. The result also suggests that this work needs to be done, as many questions remain unanswered. It is the hope of this research group that this study will inspire other workers to examine Grifola frondosa as a potential anti-HIV drug.