# Shimeji Mushroom (Hypsizygus tessellatus) **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/shimeji-mushroom **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-24 **Evidence Score:** 2 / 10 **Category:** Mushroom/Fungi **Also Known As:** Hypsizygus tessellatus, Bunashimeji, Beech mushroom, Hon-shimeji, Clamshell mushroom, Brown beech mushroom, White beech mushroom ## Overview Shimeji mushroom (Hypsizygus tessellatus) contains beta-glucans and ergosterol compounds that may modulate [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support). Current research is limited to occupational exposure studies in mushroom farm workers rather than therapeutic applications. ## Health Benefits • Insufficient clinical evidence available - the provided research only documents occupational exposure concerns in mushroom farm workers • No therapeutic benefits documented in the available research • The single relevant study (PMID not provided) examined [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) changes in workers, not health benefits • No bioactive compound studies or clinical trials were found in the provided research • Traditional use claims cannot be verified from the available scientific literature ## Mechanism of Action Shimeji mushrooms contain [beta-glucan](/ingredients/condition/immune-support)s that interact with immune cell receptors including Dectin-1 and complement receptor 3, potentially stimulating macrophage and natural killer cell activity. The ergosterol content may also influence vitamin D [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) pathways. However, specific mechanisms remain poorly characterized due to limited research on this species. ## Clinical Summary Clinical evidence for shimeji mushroom is extremely limited, with available research focusing on occupational health effects in mushroom farm workers rather than therapeutic benefits. The existing study examined [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) changes in exposed workers but did not establish therapeutic efficacy. No controlled trials have evaluated shimeji mushroom supplementation for health benefits. Current evidence is insufficient to support specific health claims. ## Nutritional Profile Shimeji mushroom (Hypsizygus tessellatus) is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense fungus. Per 100g fresh weight: Energy ~22 kcal, Protein 2.7–3.5g (containing all essential amino acids including glutamic acid and aspartic acid as predominant free amino acids contributing to umami flavor), Carbohydrates 4.0–5.0g, Dietary Fiber 1.3–2.5g (predominantly beta-glucans including β-1,3/1,6-glucans estimated at 15–25% of dry weight, which are the primary bioactive polysaccharides), Fat 0.2–0.4g, Water ~90–92g. Micronutrients: Potassium ~300–370mg/100g (one of the highest mineral contributors), Phosphorus ~80–100mg/100g, Copper ~0.3–0.5mg/100g, Selenium ~2–5μg/100g, Zinc ~0.5–0.8mg/100g, Iron ~0.5–1.0mg/100g. Vitamins: Niacin (B3) ~5–7mg/100g dry basis, Riboflavin (B2) ~0.2–0.4mg/100g, Pantothenic acid (B5) ~1.0–2.0mg/100g, Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) present in trace amounts in fresh form but increases significantly (estimated 10–100μg/100g dry weight) upon UV light exposure due to ergosterol conversion; ergosterol content estimated at 3–7mg/100g fresh weight. Bioactive compounds: Beta-glucan polysaccharides (primary [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) compounds), eritadenine (present in trace amounts compared to shiitake), lectins, and phenolic compounds (total phenolics ~5–15mg GAE/100g fresh weight). Chitin comprises ~2–5% of dry weight forming the cell wall. Bioavailability notes: Beta-glucans have limited raw bioavailability; cooking disrupts cell walls and increases nutrient release. Ergosterol-to-vitamin D2 conversion requires UV exposure post-harvest. Protein digestibility is moderate (~60–70%) due to chitin matrix encapsulation. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges are available from the provided research. The single study focused on occupational exposure to spores rather than therapeutic supplementation. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Safety data for shimeji mushroom supplementation is limited, though culinary consumption appears generally safe for most individuals. Occupational exposure studies suggest potential [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects, but clinical significance remains unclear. No documented drug interactions are available due to lack of research. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid supplementation due to insufficient safety data. ## Scientific Research The available research is extremely limited, with only one study examining immune responses in mushroom farm workers exposed to Bunashimeji spores, focusing on occupational health rather than therapeutic applications. No clinical trials, meta-analyses, or pharmacological studies investigating shimeji mushrooms as a health supplement were found in the provided research dossier. ## Historical & Cultural Context No information about traditional or historical medicinal use of shimeji mushrooms was found in the provided research. The available literature only addresses modern commercial cultivation and occupational health concerns. ## Synergistic Combinations Insufficient evidence to recommend synergistic combinations ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What compounds are found in shimeji mushrooms? Shimeji mushrooms contain beta-glucans, ergosterol, and various polysaccharides. The beta-glucan content is considered the primary bioactive component, though specific concentrations vary by cultivation conditions. ### Is there clinical evidence for shimeji mushroom benefits? Clinical evidence is extremely limited, with available research focusing on occupational exposure in farm workers rather than therapeutic use. No controlled trials have demonstrated specific health benefits from shimeji mushroom supplementation. ### How does shimeji mushroom compare to other medicinal mushrooms? Unlike well-studied species like reishi or shiitake, shimeji mushroom lacks substantial research on therapeutic applications. While it contains similar beta-glucan compounds, its specific bioactivity profile remains poorly characterized compared to other medicinal mushrooms. ### What is the recommended dosage for shimeji mushroom? No standardized dosage exists for shimeji mushroom supplements due to lack of clinical research. Most commercial products provide 500-1000mg of extract, but optimal dosing remains undetermined without proper efficacy studies. ### Are there side effects from shimeji mushroom supplements? Documented side effects are minimal, though occupational studies noted immune system changes in exposed workers. Potential allergic reactions may occur in sensitive individuals, and gastrointestinal upset is possible as with other mushroom supplements. ### What occupational health concerns are associated with shimeji mushroom exposure? Research has identified occupational exposure concerns among mushroom farm workers handling shimeji mushrooms, particularly related to immune system changes from repeated inhalation of mushroom spores and particles. Workers in shimeji cultivation environments may experience respiratory sensitization or allergic responses with prolonged exposure. Proper ventilation, respiratory protection, and workplace safety protocols are recommended for individuals working in commercial shimeji mushroom farming operations. ### Is shimeji mushroom safe for individuals with respiratory conditions? While shimeji mushrooms are generally safe for culinary consumption, individuals with asthma, mold allergies, or other respiratory conditions should be cautious, as mushroom spores and dust can trigger airway sensitivity. Those with compromised immune systems or fungal sensitivities should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing with shimeji mushroom products. The safety profile in respiratory disease populations has not been thoroughly studied in clinical trials. ### What is the difference between culinary shimeji mushrooms and supplemental shimeji extracts? Culinary shimeji mushrooms are whole food forms consumed for taste and basic nutrition, while supplemental extracts concentrate bioactive compounds through processing methods like hot water or alcohol extraction. The bioavailability and potency differences between whole mushroom consumption and standardized extracts remain unclear due to limited research on shimeji specifically. Most supplement forms available commercially use some form of extraction or concentration, though evidence supporting enhanced efficacy compared to whole food sources is lacking. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*