Agaricus blazei
Other names for Agaricus blazei
agaricus blazei
agaricus blazei extract
agaricus blazei, fermented
agaricus blazei, freeze-dried
agaricus blazei fruit extract
agaricus blazei fruiting body extract
agaricus blazei murrill fruiting body extract
agaricus blazei, powder
agaricus mushroom
agaricus mushroom extract
brazilian agaricus mushroom fruit extract
mushroom, powder
royal agaricus mushroom
royal agaricus mushroom, fermented
royal agaricus mushroom fruiting body extract
royal sun agaricus
royal sun agaricus, freeze-dried
royal sun agaricus fruit extract
royal sun agaricus fruiting body extract
royal sun blazei
royal sun fruiting body extract
royal sun mushroom
royal sun mushroom extract
royal sun mushroom fruiting body extract
royal sun mycelia extract
sun mushroom
sun mushroom fruit extract
Synopsis of Agaricus blazei
History
Agaricus blazei, also known as the "almond mushroom" or "Himematsutake," has a rich history of medicinal use, particularly in Brazil and Japan. Originally discovered in Brazil, local populations used the mushroom in folk remedies for a variety of ailments, including infections, digestive problems, and to promote overall vitality. Its reputation for supporting longevity and wellness led to its introduction in Japan, where it quickly became a valued adaptogen in traditional medicine.
Historically, Agaricus blazei was brewed as a tea or added to soups to harness its health-promoting properties. Traditional practitioners believed it helped bolster the immune system, reduce inflammation, and combat fatigue. Some remedies also involved combining Agaricus blazei with honey or other herbs to address respiratory complaints and promote energy. Its use was often reserved for the elderly or infirm, highlighting its perceived strength as a restorative tonic.
In modern herbal medicine, Agaricus blazei is frequently included in synergistic blends with other medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi, Shiitake, and Maitake. These combinations are popular in nutritional supplements, where the collective bioactive compounds are believed to enhance immune modulation, support healthy cellular function, and provide antioxidant protection. Clinical studies have supported many of these traditional claims, demonstrating Agaricus blazei's potential benefits in immune enhancement and overall wellness.
Overall, Agaricus blazei stands as a testament to the power of traditional remedies, offering a natural means of promoting health and resilience. Its positive contributions to both historical and contemporary herbal practices make it a valuable ingredient in nutritional and medicinal products worldwide.
Traditional and scientific validation
Agaricus blazei, also known as Agaricus blazei Murill (ABM), is a mushroom native to Brazil and widely cultivated in Japan. Traditionally, it has been consumed as a health-promoting food and used in folk medicine for its purported immune-boosting and anti-cancer properties. Its popularity in Asia and South America led to scientific interest in its potential therapeutic effects.
Research into Agaricus blazei has focused on its rich content of polysaccharides, especially beta-glucans, which are known for their immunomodulatory activity. Several in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that extracts from this mushroom can stimulate immune responses and display anti-tumor activity. Additionally, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects have been observed in laboratory settings.
Clinical validation, though still emerging, offers some promising results. Small-scale human studies have suggested that Agaricus blazei supplementation may improve quality of life and immune function, particularly in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Some trials report enhanced natural killer (NK) cell activity and improved hematological parameters. The mushroom has also been investigated for its potential to support metabolic health, including blood sugar regulation, though larger and more rigorous human studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Overall, while Agaricus blazei shows considerable promise as a nutritional ingredient with immune-supporting and health-promoting properties, more extensive and well-controlled clinical trials are required to fully validate its efficacy and safety. Nevertheless, its traditional use and encouraging early research support its continued inclusion in nutritional products.
Agaricus blazei is used for these health conditions
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Traditional)
Allergies (respiratory) (Traditional)
Anemia (Traditional)
Arteriosclerosis (Traditional)
Autoimmune Disorders (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Cholesterol (high) (Traditional)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Hepatitis (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Infection (Traditional)
Infection (bacterial) (Traditional)
Infection (viral) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Influenza (Traditional)
Leukemia (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Lymphoma (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Metabolic Syndrome (Traditional)
Multiple Sclerosis (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Parkinson's Disease (Traditional)
Prostatitis (Traditional)
Psoriasis (Traditional)
Radiation Sickness (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Tuberculosis (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Wasting (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Agaricus blazei is used to support these body systems
Blood (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Liver (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)