Agaricus Campestris Mushroom
Also known as: Agaricus campestris, Field mushroom, Meadow mushroom
Overview
*Agaricus campestris*, commonly known as the field mushroom or meadow mushroom, is a wild, edible fungus closely related to the commercially cultivated *Agaricus bisporus* (button mushroom). It is found in grassy fields and meadows and has been used as a food source for centuries. Increasingly, it is being explored as a dietary supplement due to its potential health benefits. *A. campestris* contains various bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides (beta-glucans), ergosterol (provitamin D2), ergothioneine, flavonoids, and chitin, which contribute to its antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and potential anticancer properties. While research is limited compared to *A. bisporus*, preclinical studies suggest promising effects. However, more human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits.
Benefits
In vitro studies suggest that *Agaricus campestris* extract may exhibit anticancer activity against malignant cancer cells, but this has not been confirmed in human trials. The primary evidence for this benefit comes from preclinical research. Secondary benefits may include antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects, inferred from related species and in vitro data. These potential benefits are attributed to bioactive compounds like polysaccharides and ergothioneine. However, there is a lack of robust evidence for specific benefits in human populations, and the effect sizes and clinical significance have not been quantified in humans. The benefits are largely extrapolated from studies on related species like *Agaricus bisporus*.
How it works
The potential health benefits of *Agaricus campestris* are attributed to its bioactive compounds. Polysaccharides, particularly beta-glucans, may modulate immune function by interacting with immune receptors like toll-like receptors. Ergothioneine and flavonoids act as antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress. In vitro studies suggest potential effects on cancer cell proliferation, possibly through apoptotic pathways. Ergothioneine is known to be well-absorbed in humans, but the bioavailability of other compounds is less clear. These compounds interact with the immune system, antioxidant enzymes, and potentially apoptotic pathways in cancer cells.
Side effects
When consumed as food, *Agaricus campestris* is generally recognized as safe. However, there is limited data on the safety of concentrated extracts or long-term supplementation. Common side effects are not reported with typical dietary amounts. Uncommon side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals. Rare side effects include possible allergic reactions. No significant drug interactions have been reported, but there is a theoretical risk with immunosuppressants due to the mushroom's immunomodulatory effects. Caution is advised for individuals with mushroom allergies. Safety in pregnancy and lactation has not been established, so special populations should exercise caution.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of *Agaricus campestris* has not been established. For related species, typical dietary intake is around 50–100 g of fresh mushroom per day. Optimal dosage ranges are not established, as preclinical studies often use extracts rather than whole mushrooms. The maximum safe dose is also not established, but no toxicity has been reported at typical dietary levels. There are no specific timing recommendations. Whole mushrooms are generally preferred for general health, while extracts may be used in research settings. Ergothioneine is known to be well-absorbed, but the absorption of other compounds is less studied. No required cofactors have been identified.
FAQs
Is *Agaricus campestris* safe to consume?
It is generally safe for most people when consumed as food. However, caution is advised when using concentrated extracts or supplements due to a lack of long-term data.
When is the best time to take *Agaricus campestris*?
There are no specific timing recommendations. It can be consumed with meals as part of a regular diet.
What are the expected health benefits of *Agaricus campestris*?
There is no robust evidence for specific health outcomes in humans. Preclinical data suggest potential immune and anticancer effects, but these are preliminary.
Is *Agaricus campestris* a proven cancer treatment?
No, it is not a proven cancer treatment. The benefits are preliminary and mostly derived from in vitro studies. More research is needed.
Research Sources
- https://core.ac.uk/download/162660729.pdf – This in vitro study found that *Agaricus campestris* extract showed effectiveness against malignant cancer cells. However, the study is limited by the lack of human data and an incompletely elucidated mechanism, making the findings promising but preliminary.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/23/11/2880 – This systematic review focused on the closely related species *Agaricus bisporus* and found beneficial effects on metabolic syndrome, immune function, gastrointestinal health, and cancer, with the strongest evidence for improved vitamin D status. While not specific to *A. campestris*, the findings suggest potential benefits that could be extrapolated, though human data remains limited.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32653808/ – This study focused on the flavor and nutritional development of *Agaricus campestris* mycelium. The research is not directly relevant to health outcomes or supplement efficacy, as it does not provide data on health benefits.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14424791/ – This study investigates the antioxidant properties of ergothioneine, a compound found in *Agaricus campestris*. The research highlights ergothioneine's role in protecting against oxidative stress, which may contribute to the mushroom's potential health benefits.
- https://osf.io/s95uj/?action=download – This resource provides information on the nutritional composition and potential health benefits of various edible mushrooms, including *Agaricus campestris*. It highlights the presence of bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides and antioxidants, which may contribute to immune support and overall well-being.
