Organic Agaricus blazei mycelia
Also known as: Agaricus blazei Murrill, Agaricus brasiliensis, Brazilian mushroom, Himematsutake, Agaricus blazei
Overview
Agaricus blazei is an edible mushroom native to Brazil, cultivated for its medicinal properties. It's available as a supplement using mycelia or fruiting bodies. It's primarily used for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential anticancer effects. The mushroom contains bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides (notably beta-glucans), which are believed to mediate these effects. Research on Agaricus blazei is moderately mature, with a mixture of in vitro, animal, and human studies. Systematic reviews and integrative reviews exist, but high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in humans remain limited. Evidence quality varies, with many studies using extracts rather than pure mycelia and some lacking rigorous controls. It is considered a medicinal mushroom supplement and a fungal mycelia extract.
Benefits
- **Immunomodulation and Anti-inflammatory Effects:** Animal studies show that aqueous extracts of Agaricus blazei mycelia reduce systemic inflammation and improve survival in septic mice by modulating inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) and nitric oxide levels, as well as enhancing bacterial clearance. Evidence is strong in animal models but requires confirmation in human trials. - **Antimicrobial Activity:** A systematic integrative review found evidence supporting Agaricus blazei’s antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, although clinical data are sparse. More clinical research is needed to validate these findings. - **Mental Health:** Some evidence from a systematic review of cultivated mushrooms suggests Agaricus blazei may have positive effects on anxiety and depression symptoms, though this is preliminary and requires further validation. The evidence is considered weak and requires further investigation. - **Other Potential Effects:** There are indications of antioxidant activity and possible anticancer properties, but these require more robust clinical trials for confirmation. These benefits are currently based on preliminary research.
How it works
The primary bioactive components, beta-glucans, stimulate innate immune cells such as macrophages and natural killer cells, enhancing pathogen clearance and modulating cytokine production. Agaricus blazei extracts appear to downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) and modulate nitric oxide production, balancing immune responses during infection or inflammation. The mushroom’s compounds may disrupt bacterial cell walls or interfere with microbial metabolism, though precise molecular targets remain to be fully elucidated. Polysaccharides like beta-glucans are poorly absorbed intact but exert effects via interaction with gut-associated lymphoid tissue and systemic immune modulation.
Side effects
Agaricus blazei is generally considered safe when consumed as a food or supplement, with no major safety concerns reported in the literature. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been occasionally reported but is uncommon. No well-documented drug interactions exist, but caution is advised in immunocompromised individuals or those on immunosuppressive therapy due to immune-stimulating effects. Safety data in pregnant or breastfeeding women are lacking. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Agaricus blazei, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. While rare, allergic reactions are possible, especially in individuals sensitive to mushrooms.
Dosage
Human studies vary widely; doses of Agaricus blazei extracts often range from 500 mg to 3 g daily, but specific dosing for mycelia extracts is less standardized. Extracts (aqueous or ethanol-based) are common; mycelia powder or capsules are also used. Timing relative to meals is not well defined. Co-administration with food may affect polysaccharide absorption; no specific cofactors are established. Due to the limited standardization of mycelia extracts, it's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations or consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing.
FAQs
Is Agaricus blazei mycelia effective for immune support?
Animal studies support immune modulation, but human RCTs are limited. More research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Are there risks of allergic reactions?
Allergic reactions are rare but possible, especially in individuals sensitive to mushrooms. Discontinue use if you experience any allergic symptoms.
How soon can benefits be expected?
In animal models, effects on inflammation and survival were observed within days; human timelines are unclear. Individual responses may vary.
Can it replace antibiotics or conventional treatments?
No; it may complement but not substitute standard medical care. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2020.01238/full – This animal study found that an aqueous extract of Agaricus brasiliensis mycelia improved survival in septic mice, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, and enhanced bacterial clearance. The study suggests a potential immunomodulatory effect of the extract, but human relevance requires confirmation.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/15/13/1329 – This systematic review of cultivated mushrooms suggests that Agaricus blazei may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in humans. However, the evidence is preliminary and based on small studies, indicating a need for more rigorous research.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/rbfar/a/8St7yBCsYMBjTwZsjCkLg8k/?format=html&lang=en – This integrative literature review found that Agaricus blazei exhibits antimicrobial activity against various bacteria in vitro. While clinical evidence is limited, the review suggests promising antimicrobial properties that warrant further investigation.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1155/2020/1824183 – This study investigates the potential of Agaricus blazei in cancer treatment. It highlights the mushroom's ability to modulate the immune system and exhibit anti-tumor effects, suggesting its potential as a complementary therapy in cancer management, though further clinical trials are needed.