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Royal Sun Mushroom Extract

Also known as: Royal Sun Mushroom, Cogumelo do Sol, Himematsutake, ABM, Agaricus blazei Murrill

Overview

Agaricus blazei Murrill (ABM), commonly known as Royal Sun Mushroom, is a basidiomycete brown fungus native to Brazil, widely utilized as a medicinal mushroom supplement. It is typically consumed as an extract derived from its fruiting bodies or mycelium. ABM is primarily valued for its purported immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and metabolic health benefits. Its key bioactive compounds include β-glucans, phenolic compounds, organic acids, and amino acids. Research on ABM is moderately mature, encompassing preclinical studies, small to moderate-sized randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and some clinical observational data. While systematic reviews exist, their number is limited, and the quality of evidence varies, with some well-controlled RCTs alongside reliance on smaller trials and preclinical models.

Benefits

Agaricus blazei Murrill (ABM) offers several evidence-based benefits. It demonstrates significant immunomodulatory effects, with clinical trials showing increased natural killer (NK) cell activity and modulation of cytokines, including reductions in pro-inflammatory markers like IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in inflammatory conditions and cancer. ABM also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, reducing systemic inflammatory markers and leukocyte infiltration in animal models of sepsis and human inflammatory bowel disease. Its antitumor activity has been reported in both preclinical and clinical contexts, involving direct tumor cell apoptosis and indirect immune-mediated suppression, potentially enhancing chemotherapy effects and reducing side effects. Furthermore, some RCT data suggest metabolic benefits, including reductions in blood cholesterol, triglycerides, blood glucose, body fat percentage, and blood pressure in healthy individuals. Animal studies also hint at ABM's potential to increase longevity through antioxidative and antitumor mechanisms.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for Agaricus blazei Murrill (ABM) involves immune system modulation, largely attributed to its β-glucans. These compounds bind to pattern recognition receptors, such as Toll-like receptors (TLR-2, TLR-4), leading to the downregulation of excessive inflammatory signaling. ABM enhances phagocytosis, nitric oxide production, and natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, contributing to its antimicrobial and antitumor effects. The synergistic action of bioactive compounds like β-glucans, phenolics, and organic acids contributes to its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. While oral bioavailability is moderate, aqueous extracts are commonly studied, with β-glucans either partially absorbed or exerting their effects through modulation of gut immunity.

Side effects

Agaricus blazei Murrill (ABM) is generally considered safe, with no significant adverse effects reported in long-term human trials at doses up to 9000 mg/day. Rare, mild allergic reactions may occur, particularly in sensitive individuals. Isolated case reports of hepatotoxicity exist, but causality remains unclear and has not been confirmed in controlled studies. While potential interactions with drugs affecting intestinal efflux pumps have been cautioned, strong clinical evidence supporting these interactions is lacking. Data for special populations, such as pregnant women or immunocompromised individuals, are insufficient to make firm recommendations regarding ABM supplementation. Overall, ABM has a favorable safety profile, but individuals with pre-existing liver conditions or those on multiple medications should consult a healthcare professional.

Dosage

Effective dosages of Agaricus blazei Murrill (ABM) in human trials typically range from 3000 mg/day to 9000 mg/day of fruiting body extract, often administered in multiple divided doses throughout the day. The duration of supplementation in studies varies, commonly ranging from 3 to 6 months for observing metabolic and immunological benefits. There is no established maximum safe dose, and doses exceeding 9000 mg/day have not been extensively studied for safety or efficacy. The timing of supplementation relative to meals is not well-defined, but aqueous extracts are frequently used due to their potentially better absorption. No specific cofactors are required for ABM's efficacy, though a generally good nutritional status may support its immune-enhancing benefits.

FAQs

Is Royal Sun Mushroom Extract safe for long-term use?

Current evidence suggests it is safe for long-term use, with no significant adverse effects reported in trials lasting up to 6 months.

How soon can benefits be expected?

Some immunomodulatory and metabolic effects may become apparent within weeks to a few months of consistent daily supplementation.

Can it be used alongside chemotherapy?

Some studies indicate it may enhance chemotherapy efficacy and reduce side effects, but its use should always be supervised by a physician.

Is it effective for cancer treatment?

It possesses immunomodulatory properties and may act as an adjunct, but it is not a standalone cancer treatment.

Research Sources

https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2619&context=facpub – This review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found that Agaricus blazei supplementation led to significant decreases in cholesterol, blood glucose, and body fat, alongside increased NK cell activity, with no reported adverse effects. The study, however, was limited by small sample sizes and focused primarily on healthy subjects.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2020.01238/full – This preclinical study using a mouse sepsis model demonstrated that Agaricus blazei aqueous extract significantly reduced systemic inflammation and bacterial load, improving survival through immunomodulation. While high-quality for preclinical research, its direct relevance to human sepsis requires further investigation.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7285126/ – This systematic review comprehensively analyzed various clinical and preclinical studies, concluding that Agaricus blazei exhibits antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antiallergic effects. It also highlighted the mushroom's good safety profile, with only rare allergic reactions reported, despite the heterogeneity and small sample sizes of some included trials.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3833359/ – This narrative review summarizes the pharmacological effects of Agaricus blazei, covering its potential benefits in conditions such as cancer, diabetes, hepatitis, and atherosclerosis. Although an older review, it provides a comprehensive overview of the mushroom's diverse therapeutic properties.