The name shitake comes from the Japanese words "shii" (referring to the Japanese shiia tree, where shitake grows naturally) and "take" (mushroom). Shiitake grows on dead trees or sawdust degrading cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin.

Currently, it is the second most popular edible mushroom in the world, only behind the mushroom and sawdust or wood is used as a substrate for its cultivation.

Shiitake mushroom benefits:

• Reduce the cholesterol.
• Help in the fight against cancer.
• Strengthens the immune system.
• Control blood pressure.
• Prevents thrombosis.