Maitake

Grifola frondosa

Evidence: AFamily: Grifolaceae

Beta-glucan rich medicinal mushroom with strong immunomodulating (D-fraction), hypoglycemic, and antitumor effects; excellent adjunct for diabetic and oncology veterinary patients.

Consult Your Veterinarian First

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before using herbal remedies for your pet — especially if they are on medication, pregnant, or have existing health conditions.

Species Safety

An herb safe for one species may be toxic to another.

Dogs

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Cats

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Horses

Safe

Duration: long term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Rabbits

Safe

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Birds

Safe

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Guinea Pigs

Safe

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: safeYoung: safe

Dosing Guide

General guidance only — always consult your veterinarian.

SpeciesFormDoseFrequencyNotes
Dogsdried herb0.25-0.5 grams /kgtwice dailyPer 10kg; hot water or dual extract preferred; D-fraction for oncology support.
Catscapsule50-100 mg /kgtwice dailyPer 5kg; extract preferred; immune and glycemic support in chronic conditions.
Horsesdried herb10-20 gramsonce dailyFor 450kg horse; immune and metabolic support for EMS/PPID horses.

Active Compounds

D-fraction beta-glucan(other)
MD-fraction(other)
Ergosterol(other)
X-fraction(other)

Compounds marked Cat Unsafe (phenols and many terpenes) cannot be metabolized by feline livers.

Safety Warnings

Surgery Warning

Monitor blood glucose in diabetic animals; dose adjustments to insulin may be required.

Essential Oil Form

Strong clinical evidence for D-fraction in veterinary oncology; well-documented glycemic and immune effects.

Quick Info

Plant Family

Grifolaceae

Parts Used

fruit, whole plant

Available Forms

dried herb, capsule, tea

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