Lovastatin is a member of the drug class of statins, used for lowering cholesterol (hypolipidemic agent) in those with hypercholesterolemia and so preventing cardiovascular disease. Lovastatin is a naturally occurring drug found in food such as oyster mushrooms and red yeast rice.

Lentinan - a compound isolated from shiitake, is used as an intravenous anticancer agent in some countries. Studies have demonstrated lentinan contains antitumor properties. Take care as some folks have an allergic reaction to Lentinan, this can be prevented by cooking your shiitake well at high heat.