Volvariella Volvacea Mushroom
Also known as: Volvariella volvacea, Straw mushroom, Paddy straw mushroom
Overview
Volvariella volvacea, commonly known as the straw mushroom or paddy straw mushroom, is an edible mushroom widely cultivated in Asia. It is primarily grown on agricultural waste substrates like rice straw and cotton waste. This mushroom is valued as a food source and is being investigated for its potential medicinal properties due to its bioactive compounds. It is characterized by its high-temperature tolerance and rapid growth. Volvariella volvacea is rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, fibers, ascorbic acid, and minerals, along with a comprehensive amino acid profile. While its genome has been sequenced, clinical research on its supplementation is still limited, with most evidence coming from preclinical and observational studies.
Benefits
Currently, there are no robust randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses that quantify specific health benefits of Volvariella volvacea in humans. Animal and in vitro studies suggest potential antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-tumor activities, but these findings have not been confirmed in human clinical trials. The mushroom is a source of nutritional supplementation, providing protein, fiber, minerals, and amino acids. Its potential as a functional food is supported by compositional analysis, but further research is needed to establish its clinical efficacy and specific benefits for human health.
How it works
Volvariella volvacea contains enzymes that facilitate the degradation of cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin, which aids in its growth on agricultural waste. The bioactive compounds present in the mushroom may modulate oxidative stress and immune function. While the exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated, it is suggested that these compounds interact with oxidative stress pathways and immune cell activity. However, the absorption and bioavailability of these compounds in humans have not been studied, but it is presumed to be similar to other edible mushrooms.
Side effects
Volvariella volvacea is generally recognized as safe when consumed as food. However, there is limited data available on the safety of concentrated extracts or long-term supplementation. No common, uncommon, or rare side effects have been reported in the context of food use. There are no documented drug interactions or contraindications associated with its consumption. While there are no specific warnings for pregnant, lactating, or pediatric populations, clinical data are lacking, and caution is advised until further research is conducted.
Dosage
Currently, there is no established minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, or maximum safe dose for Volvariella volvacea supplementation. It is typically consumed as part of a normal diet. There are no specific timing recommendations or form-specific recommendations, as the whole mushroom is the most common form of consumption. Extracts are not standardized. No specific absorption factors or required cofactors have been identified. Due to the lack of clinical data, it is important to exercise caution and avoid excessive consumption until further research provides more specific dosing guidelines.
FAQs
Is Volvariella volvacea safe to consume?
Yes, it is generally safe when consumed as a food. However, there is insufficient evidence to support its use as a therapeutic supplement, and caution is advised with concentrated extracts.
What are the expected health benefits of consuming Volvariella volvacea?
It provides nutritional benefits such as protein, fiber, and minerals. However, claims of anti-cancer or immune-boosting effects are not supported by robust clinical evidence.
Are there any specific recommendations for consuming Volvariella volvacea?
No specific recommendations exist for timing or administration. It is typically consumed as part of a normal diet. There is no established optimal dosage for therapeutic purposes.
Can Volvariella volvacea help boost my immune system?
While some studies suggest potential immunomodulatory effects, robust clinical evidence in humans is lacking. More research is needed to confirm these effects.
Are there any risks associated with consuming Volvariella volvacea?
No significant safety concerns have been reported in food use. However, limited data are available on concentrated extracts or long-term supplementation, so caution is advised.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23526973/ – This study presents the genome sequencing and comparative analysis of Volvariella volvacea. The research revealed genes responsible for carbohydrate degradation and provided insights into the mushroom's temperature sensitivity and mating systems. While valuable for understanding the genetic makeup of the mushroom, it does not directly address clinical outcomes related to human supplementation.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2311-7524/10/3/204 – This review examines the nutritional and medicinal properties of Volvariella volvacea. It highlights that the mushroom is rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. However, the review emphasizes the lack of clinical evidence to support these benefits, relying primarily on preclinical and observational studies.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2019.02045/full – This study analyzes strain degeneration and nutrient content in Volvariella volvacea mycelial subcultures over 18 months. The findings indicate that subculturing leads to strain degeneration and reduced nutrient content. A rapid identification method for degeneration was developed, but the study is not directly relevant to human supplementation.
- https://www.jstor.org/stable/2441038 – This research focuses on the cultivation of Volvariella volvacea and its nutritional aspects. It provides insights into the optimal conditions for growing the mushroom and its composition. However, it does not delve into the clinical applications or health benefits of consuming the mushroom.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39524889/ – This study investigates the chemical composition of Volvariella volvacea and its potential medicinal properties. It identifies various bioactive compounds present in the mushroom. However, it does not provide clinical evidence or human trial data to support the therapeutic use of these compounds.
