Agaricus blazei Murrill,
popularly known as 'Cogumelo do Sol' in Brazil, or 'Himematsutake' in
Japan, also called ‘The Sun Mushroom of Aztecs’, is a mushroom native to
Brazil, and widely cultivated in Japan for its medicinal uses. It is now
considered as one of the most important edible and culinary-medicinal
biotechnological species.
Agaricus blazei Murill
has been utilized in alternative drug to anticipate cardiac disease, diabetes, arthritis,
increased cholesterol, hepatitis and cancers.
Agaricus contains, among
other substances, over 18 different amino acids, 10 different minerals, 16
different vitamins, 46 enzymes, ergosterol, linoleic acid
and polysaccharides: 1-3/1-6 beta-glucans.
Immune system
Studies have found that
immune boosting properties of Agaricus blazei come from the various beneficial
polysaccharides in the form of highly structured beta-glucans they contain.
These compounds are known for their amazing ability to modulate the body’s immune
response and provide protection against disease. The polysaccharides found in
this mushroom regulate the production of antibodies and work as
"biological response modifiers".
Data from in vitro and
animal studies indicate that Agaricus activates white blood cells such as
macrophages, dendritic cells, granulocytes and natural killer cells in the
innate immune system, which is an important evolutionary first-line defence
system. It detects danger patterns and reacts, destroying the hostile elements
(for example viruses or bacteria).
Agaricus is an immune
modulator and educator, which means it works intelligently. If the
immune system is over-stimulated (as can happen with auto-immune disorders) the
immune system attacks everything in sight including the body’s own tissues. In
this case, Agaricus will down regulate the immune system and retrain it so that
the response to invaders becomes more selective and efficient.
On the other hand, if
the immune system is compromised, Agaricus will stimulate and up regulate it to
deal with genuine threats appropriately.
The Agaricus blazei
Murrill species has proven antitumor activity for some types of cancer. This is
because besides contributing to decreasing blood sugar in-vivo, the β-glucan it
contains also acts against cancer. Thus the use of this natural product can
improve health and increase the patients' immunity.
Digestive system
Agaricus stimulates the
digestive system, containing the digestive enzymes amylase, trypsin, maltase
and protease. These enzymes assist the body in breaking down protein,
carbohydrates and fats.
Various studies have
shown this mushroom to be effective against many digestive disorders including gastric ulcers, chronic gastritis, duodenal ulcers, viral enteritis, chronic
stomatitis, pyorrhea, constipation and loss of appetite.
Liver Health
Agaricus has shown the abilities
to improve the functioning of the liver, even in people who suffer liver damage
from hepatitis B. This disease has long been considered as among the most
difficult to treat and can produce extensive liver damage.
One recent year-long
study found that extracts of the mushroom can return liver function to normal.
Also, extracts have been shown to be able to help protect the liver from
further damage, specifically against the damaging effects of oxidative stress
on the tissues of the liver.
However, other research
suggests that Agaricus may be linked to liver damage, especially in individuals
with pre-existing liver conditions or when taken in conjunction with certain
medications. Therefore, while it may offer some benefits for liver health, it
is crucial to be aware of potential risks and consult with a healthcare
professional before using, especially if you have any liver issues.
Diabetes
Agaricus contains polysaccharides
and beta-glucans, which are hypothesized to interact with cell receptors
involved in insulin signaling. By modulating these signaling pathways, it may
help cells respond better to insulin, thereby reducing blood glucose levels.
Studies suggest that this
mushroom may help lower blood sugar, improve glucose metabolism, and enhance
insulin sensitivity. Thus it helps in regulating blood sugar levels,
particularly in individuals with diabetes.
Longevity
One study examining 90 to 100 year old indigenous inhabitants in the village of Piedade in Brazil (they were regularly consuming Agaricus Blazei) showed that their biological age was much lower than their real one. Researchers found that their body cells’ division rate was much lower than normal, which slows down aging processes.
Precautions
Agaricus blazei is
considered a relatively safe non-toxic mushroom species that can be consumed
for culinary purposes or as a dietary supplement and used in therapeutic
amounts for an extended period of time.
However, avoid consumption if you
have allergies to mushrooms, which may cause digestive upset. It is important
to seek the advice of your health care provider if you have serious medical
conditions, are undergoing chemotherapy treatment or taking prescribed
medications.
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