Matiake may assist in regulating blood pressure, glucose, insulin, and both serum and liver lipids such as cholesterol, triglycerides and may also be useful for weight loss. Maitake is rich in minerals (such as potassium, calcium and magnesium), various vitamins, fibers and amino acids. The active constituent in maitake for enhancing the immune activity has been identified to be the protein-bound polysaccharide compound, beta glucan, an ingredient found especially in the family of polyporaceae.

Shiitake mushrooms have been researched for their medicinal benefits, most notably their anti-tumor properties in laboratory mice. Extracts from shiitake mushrooms have also been researched for many other immunological benefits, ranging from anti-viral properties to possible treatments for severe allergies, as well as arthritis. Lenthionine, a key flavor compound of shiitake, also inhibits platelet aggregation, so it is a promising treatment for thrombosis.

Reishi is used as an immune stimulant by patients with HIV or cancer. Extracts of Reishi can stimulate macrophages and alter the levels of TNF and interleukins. In clinical studies, Reishi increased plasma antioxidant capacity  and enhanced immune responses in advance-stage cancer patients. Reishi was also shown to inhibit platelet aggregation. . Reishi can interfere with the actions of immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, and certain chemotherapeutic agents.

Cordyceps has long been used to promote overall good health, and modern research indicates that cordyceps does indeed support liver, kidney, heart, and immune system function. It also appears to act as an antioxidant in the body, protecting it from free radical damage. The compounds in cordyceps are also thought to improve lung function and increase energy levels; it is well known that Chinese athletes use cordyceps to help increase their stamina and endurance. It has been theorized that cordyceps enhances athletic performance because it helps it increases blood flow and oxygen supplies throughout the body, which helps the heart, lungs, and other organs function more efficiently. In one study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, researchers reported that athletes who took 4.5 grams of cordyceps daily for six weeks had double the rate of oxygen intake as those in the placebo group.