METHOD OF PRODUCING FRESH MUSHROOM EXTRACT, EXTRACT AND EXTRACT-CONTAINING MATERIAL

摘要

By paying attention to the functions of shiitake mushroom, it is intended to provide a novel and safe extract for modifying immunological functions. An extract showing an effect of regulating immunological functions can be produced by preparing a paste from the whole fresh shiitake mushroom employed as the starting material, thus promoting the autofermentation thereof and further freezing and thawing the same. This extract contains polysaccharides only in a small amount, can be easily powdered and can be very easily handled. Thus, a functional material having an effect of regulating human immunological functions is provided from shiitake mushroom having been widely distributed as a natural food material. By employing this material, a functional food having therapeutic and preventive effects on various diseases such as various infections and allergic diseases, which is necessary for modern people, can be developed.