Agaricus Extract
Also known as: Agaricus extract, Agaricus blazei, Agaricus blazei extract, Agaricus brasiliensis extract, button mushroom extract, Agaricus bisporus, Agaricus brasiliensis
Overview
Agaricus extracts are derived primarily from the medicinal mushrooms Agaricus brasiliensis (also known as Agaricus blazei) and Agaricus bisporus. These mushrooms are cultivated and valued for their rich content of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides (notably beta-glucans) and antioxidants. Traditionally, Agaricus extracts have been utilized for their potential in immune modulation, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant properties, and are also explored as adjuncts in cancer therapy. Research into Agaricus extracts is ongoing, with a moderate level of maturity, encompassing preclinical animal studies, in vitro experiments, and some human trials, particularly for Agaricus bisporus. While strong preclinical evidence supports their immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects, human randomized controlled trial (RCT) data are emerging but still limited, especially for Agaricus brasiliensis. The extracts are available as dietary supplements and are generally considered safe with a favorable safety profile.
Benefits
Agaricus extracts offer several evidence-based benefits, primarily in immunomodulation, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant support. Preclinical studies, such as one in septic mice, demonstrated that Agaricus brasiliensis aqueous extract significantly reduced systemic inflammation, improved bacterial clearance, and enhanced survival, indicating potent immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects. This suggests a strong potential for supporting the immune system in challenging conditions. Furthermore, Agaricus blazei extracts have shown in vitro inhibitory effects against certain bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus, and reduced bacteremia in animal models of sepsis, highlighting their antimicrobial capabilities. Beyond direct immune and antimicrobial actions, systematic reviews suggest that mushroom extracts, including Agaricus species, may enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and potentially reverse chemoresistance in cancer cells, positioning them as valuable adjunctive therapies. While human data for Agaricus brasiliensis are still limited, studies on Agaricus bisporus consumption have shown improvements in vitamin D status and reductions in inflammation markers. The strongest evidence for clinical use currently lies in supportive roles for immune health and as an adjunct in cancer therapy, particularly for immunocompromised individuals or those undergoing chemotherapy, though more human RCTs are needed to confirm these benefits and establish definitive effect sizes.
How it works
Agaricus extracts exert their effects primarily through the activation of immune cells and modulation of inflammatory pathways. The key active components, particularly beta-glucans, interact with specific receptors on immune cells like macrophages and Natural Killer (NK) cells, stimulating their activity and enhancing the body's immune response. This leads to the modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, helping to regulate the immune system. Additionally, Agaricus extracts possess antioxidant properties, reducing reactive oxygen species and mitigating oxidative stress within the body. These mechanisms collectively contribute to immune system enhancement, antimicrobial defense, and overall reduction of oxidative stress. While the exact absorption and bioavailability of all compounds are still being studied, polysaccharides and other bioactives are partially absorbed, allowing for systemic effects following oral administration.
Side effects
Agaricus extracts are generally considered safe, with minimal side effects reported in human trials, particularly for Agaricus bisporus. The most commonly reported adverse effects are mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal bloating. Uncommon or rare side effects are not well documented in high-quality studies. No significant adverse events have been reported at studied doses in either human or animal research. However, caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions, especially with immunosuppressive medications, due to the immune-modulating properties of Agaricus extracts. While no well-documented interactions exist, individuals on such medications should consult a healthcare provider. Contraindications include immunocompromised patients, who should also seek medical advice before use. Data on the safety of Agaricus extracts in special populations, such as pregnant or lactating women, are limited, and their use in these groups should be approached with caution and under medical supervision.
Dosage
The optimal dosage for Agaricus extracts is not yet definitively established and can vary significantly depending on the specific preparation and intended use. Preclinical animal studies have utilized aqueous extracts of Agaricus brasiliensis at doses around 135 mg/kg orally. In human studies involving Agaricus bisporus, typical dietary amounts range from 100-200 grams of fresh mushroom or an equivalent amount of extract. For concentrated extracts, dosages are often much lower. There is no clearly defined maximum safe dose, as no toxicity has been observed at the doses studied to date. Timing considerations depend on the indication; for instance, in animal models of sepsis, pre-treatment showed benefit. For general immune support, daily supplementation is common. Aqueous extracts are often preferred for immunomodulation due to their concentrated active compounds, while whole mushroom or powder forms are used for broader dietary supplementation. The bioavailability of active components, particularly polysaccharides, can be enhanced by specific extraction methods. No specific cofactors are identified as being required for efficacy.
FAQs
Is Agaricus extract safe for daily use?
Generally, Agaricus extract, especially from Agaricus bisporus, is considered safe for daily use. Mild gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating are possible but uncommon.
Can it be used alongside chemotherapy?
Agaricus extract shows potential as an adjunctive therapy with chemotherapy. However, its use should always be supervised by an oncologist due to potential interactions and individual patient needs.
How soon do effects appear?
In animal studies, effects can be observed rapidly, within hours to days. In humans, benefits, particularly for immune modulation, may take several weeks of consistent use to become noticeable.
Does it cure infections or cancer?
No, Agaricus extract is not a cure for infections or cancer. It may support immune function and potentially improve outcomes as an adjunct, but it is not a standalone treatment.
Is fresh mushroom better than extract?
Extracts often concentrate the active compounds, potentially offering higher potency for specific therapeutic goals. Fresh mushrooms provide broader nutritional benefits. The choice depends on the desired effect and convenience.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2020.01238/full – This preclinical randomized controlled trial in mice demonstrated that an aqueous extract of Agaricus brasiliensis significantly reduced systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and improved bacterial clearance, ultimately enhancing survival in a sepsis model. The study highlights the potent immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of the extract.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/13/6/510 – This systematic review analyzed multiple in vitro and in vivo studies, concluding that various mushroom extracts, including Agaricus species, may enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and potentially reverse chemoresistance in cancer cells. While comprehensive, it notes the need for more direct human RCTs specifically on Agaricus.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/rbfar/a/8St7yBCsYMBjTwZsjCkLg8k/?format=pdf&lang=en – This review of antimicrobial studies, primarily preclinical, indicates that Agaricus blazei extracts possess inhibitory effects against certain bacteria and can reduce bacteremia in animal models. It provides consistent evidence for the in vitro and in vivo antimicrobial properties of the extract.
- https://research.bond.edu.au/files/36426433/AM_Examining_the_health_effects_and_bioactive_components_in_Agaricus_bisporus.pdf – This systematic review, which included 15 human randomized controlled trials, focused on Agaricus bisporus consumption. It found that regular consumption improved vitamin D status and reduced markers of inflammation, with minimal reported side effects, though it primarily focused on dietary intake rather than concentrated extracts of Agaricus brasiliensis.