The shiitake mushroom, native to Japan and other Asian nations, is cultivated worldwide for its purported health benefits. The fresh and dried forms are commonly used in East Asian cooking.
Shiitake mushrooms also contain strong compounds having the natural ability to discourage inflammation, tumors, "bad" bacteria, harmful viruses, and, ironically, fungus. B vitamins such as B2, B5 and B6 are part of the package, providing energy by breaking down fats, carbs, and proteins.