Agarikon mushroom (Fomitopsis officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional European medicine, especially for respiratory ailments. However, its use against influenza is supported by some preliminary scientific research. In vitro studies, such as those by Stamets et al. (2012), have shown that extracts from Agarikon demonstrate inhibitory activity against several viruses, including influenza A (H1N1). These studies suggest that certain compounds in Agarikon, like polysaccharides and triterpenoids, may have immunomodulatory or direct antiviral effects. However, these findings are limited to laboratory (cell culture) models; there are no published human clinical trials confirming its efficacy or safety for treating influenza.

While the mushroom is traditionally used for lung and respiratory health, the specific application to influenza is mainly based on these preliminary scientific results and not centuries of recognized folk use for this illness. Major health organizations and clinical guidelines do not currently recommend Agarikon as a treatment for influenza, and scientific evidence is still in the early stages. Thus, the evidence supporting Agarikon’s use against influenza can be rated as low to moderate (2/5), primarily grounded in promising but early laboratory research.

References:
Stamets P et al. "Antiviral Properties of Fungi." Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012.
Lindequist U. "The Pharmacological Potential of Mushrooms." Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013.