Achh
Also known as: AHCC, Active Hexose Correlated Compound, shiitake mushroom mycelia extract
Overview
Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) is a proprietary, standardized extract derived from the cultured mycelia of shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes). It is primarily composed of polysaccharides, notably alpha-glucans, which are believed to be responsible for its immunomodulatory effects. AHCC is widely used as a dietary supplement to enhance immune function. Its applications include supporting the clearance of persistent viral infections, such as high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV), improving immune responses in individuals undergoing chemotherapy, and potentially alleviating symptoms associated with post-viral conditions like post-COVID-19 syndrome. Research indicates AHCC's ability to boost natural killer (NK) cell activity and T cell responses, making it a valuable supplement for immune system support. While several randomized controlled trials and pilot studies exist, larger-scale trials are still needed to fully establish its efficacy across all potential applications.
Benefits
AHCC offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily centered around immune system modulation. A phase II randomized controlled trial demonstrated that AHCC supplementation (3 g daily) significantly increased HPV clearance rates to approximately 50% at 6 months post-treatment in women with persistent high-risk HPV infections, compared to a 10% clearance rate in the placebo group (p < 0.05). This represents a clinically meaningful effect. In epithelial ovarian cancer patients undergoing platinum-based chemotherapy, AHCC supplementation was associated with significantly higher CD8+ T cell levels at the sixth chemotherapy cycle and reduced self-reported nausea and vomiting compared to placebo, suggesting improved immune resilience and reduced side effects. Pilot data also indicate that AHCC may improve physiological functions and reduce symptom burden in patients experiencing post-COVID-19 conditions. In vitro studies further support AHCC's ability to suppress high-risk HPV expression in cervical cancer cell lines at clinically relevant concentrations. These benefits are particularly relevant for women with persistent HPV infections, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and individuals with post-viral syndromes. The time course for benefits varies, with HPV clearance observed at 6 months and immune modulation during chemotherapy cycles.
How it works
AHCC primarily exerts its effects by enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses. Its main mechanism involves increasing the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which are crucial for identifying and eliminating virus-infected cells and cancer cells. AHCC also modulates T lymphocyte populations, specifically increasing the number and activity of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, which play a key role in cell-mediated immunity. It may also influence cytokine production, thereby regulating inflammatory responses and overall immune communication. AHCC interacts primarily with the immune system, supporting its ability to mount effective antiviral and anticancer responses. While the exact molecular targets are still being elucidated, it is understood to act on various immune cells and potentially influence immune checkpoints and signaling pathways. AHCC is orally administered, and its active polysaccharide components are believed to have good bioavailability, though precise pharmacokinetic details are not fully characterized.
Side effects
AHCC is generally considered well-tolerated and has a favorable safety profile based on clinical studies. Common side effects are mild and infrequent, with occasional reports of mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Uncommon side effects (occurring in 1-5% of users) are rare, with one reported instance of a patient experiencing a rash and dizziness, which resolved with symptomatic treatment. Serious adverse events directly attributable to AHCC have not been reported in randomized controlled trials. Regarding drug interactions, no significant interactions have been reported, but caution is advised when combining AHCC with other immunomodulatory drugs due to potential additive effects. There are no formal contraindications established, but individuals with known allergies to mushrooms should exercise caution. Data on AHCC use in pregnant or lactating women are limited, so it is generally recommended to avoid use in these populations. Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy have tolerated AHCC well in studies, with some even experiencing a reduction in chemotherapy-related side effects like nausea.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of AHCC for certain applications, such as HPV clearance, has been shown to be 3 grams daily. This dosage was effective in a clinical study for achieving significant HPV clearance rates. Optimal dosage ranges typically fall between 3 grams and 6 grams daily, with doses up to 6 grams daily reported in some studies without an increase in adverse effects. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but doses up to 6 grams daily appear to be well-tolerated. AHCC is typically taken orally, often in capsule or powder form, and is best consumed with water. The timing of administration is generally daily, but the duration of supplementation varies depending on the specific indication; for example, 6 months of supplementation was used in the HPV clearance study. Standardized extracts are recommended to ensure consistent potency. No specific cofactors are identified as being required for its absorption or efficacy.
FAQs
Is AHCC safe to take during chemotherapy?
Yes, studies indicate AHCC is safe during chemotherapy and may help reduce some side effects like nausea and vomiting, while also supporting immune cell levels.
How long does it take to see benefits from AHCC?
For HPV clearance, benefits were observed at 6 months of supplementation. Immune modulation effects during chemotherapy may be seen within weeks, but overall symptom improvement can vary.
Can AHCC cure HPV or cancer?
AHCC is not a cure for HPV or cancer. It supports the immune system in clearing HPV and acts as an adjunctive supplement during cancer treatment, but it is not a standalone treatment.
Are there any allergic risks with AHCC?
Rare allergic reactions have been reported. Individuals with known allergies to mushrooms should exercise caution when considering AHCC supplementation.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9256908/ – This Phase II randomized controlled trial investigated AHCC for persistent high-risk HPV infections. It found that 3g daily AHCC significantly increased HPV clearance rates to 50% at 6 months post-treatment compared to 10% in the placebo group, demonstrating a clinically meaningful effect with high statistical power.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2019.00173/full – This study evaluated AHCC's effects in epithelial ovarian cancer patients undergoing platinum-based chemotherapy. It reported that AHCC supplementation led to significantly higher CD8+ T cell levels and reduced self-reported nausea and vomiting, suggesting immune support and mitigation of chemotherapy side effects.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5464477/ – This research involved in vitro and in vivo evaluations of AHCC on HPV expression and cervical cancer cell lines. It demonstrated that AHCC could suppress HPV expression at clinically relevant concentrations, although direct cytotoxicity required higher doses not achievable systemically in humans.
- https://jclinmedsurgery.com/articles/jcms-v4-1167.pdf – This pilot study explored AHCC's potential benefits for patients with post-COVID-19 conditions. The findings suggested that AHCC may improve physiological functions and reduce symptom burden in these individuals, indicating a role in post-viral recovery.
