The mushroom was first described in 1967 as Agaricus blazei Murrill and is actually identical to the earlier species Agaricus subrufescens Peck. Today, the latter is the scientifically correct name, but it continues to be marketed under various synonyms such as A. brasiliensis or A. blazei.
Originally from Brazil, it was widely cultivated in Japan from the 1970s onwards. Known as the "almond mushroom," "god mushroom," "life mushroom," or "sun mushroom."
Ingredients & Nutrients
- β-Glucans: Main active ingredients, specifically (1→3)/(1→6)-branched β-D-glucans. They modulate the immune system by activating the innate defense system.
- Other bioactive substances: Blazein (steroid), Ergosterol (mushroom sterol), Agaritine (phenolhydrazine-containing compound).
- Vitamin profile (per 100g dry weight): Vitamin C: approx. 9–24mg, B₁ (Thiamine): 360–1180µg, B₂ (Riboflavin): 3000–5800µg, B₉ (Folate): 277–687µg, B₁₂ (Cobalamin): 440–913µg; B₃ (Niacin): 29–56mg
- → This makes it one of the vitamin-rich mushroom species – an interesting addition to a vegetarian diet.
Health benefits – what does science say?
Immunomodulatory & Antitumor Effects
β-Glucans can stimulate the immune system, promote cytokine production, support NK cells, and can inhibit tumor cells and limit metastases.
Anti-Inflammatory & Allergy
AbM extracts can reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines, regulate oxidative stress, and positively influence the intestinal flora. A shift in the Th1/Th2 immune balance has also been observed – relevant for allergies and chronic inflammation.
Hepato- and Metabolic Protection
Studies show that in hepatitis B patients, the mushroom reduced serum liver enzymes by 1,500 mg daily without adverse effects. In animal studies, it protected against alcohol- or CCl₄-induced liver injury (reduced oxidative stress, normalized enzymes).
Blood Sugar & Cholesterol
β-Glucans and their hydrolysates demonstrated antidiabetic effects (lowering glucose and insulin resistance) as well as reduced triglycerides and cholesterol in animal models.
Antimicrobial & Antiviral Effects
In animal studies, the extract improved the immune response in sepsis: reduced inflammatory response, increased bacterial elimination, and survival rates.
Did you know?
Agaricus blazei Murill is known in Japan as "Himematsutake" (姫松茸), which literally means "Princess Matsutake":
- "Hime" (姫) = princess
- "Matsutake" (松茸) = a highly prized wild mushroom (Tricholoma matsutake), considered a delicacy and symbol of autumn in Japan.
Due to its attributed healing and immune-boosting properties, it is often marketed as the "mushroom of life" or "god mushroom."
These names are said to have become particularly popular in Japanese advertising – there, it is sometimes more expensive than reishi or shiitake mushrooms because it is considered particularly effective and refined.
Our Products
We offer several Almond mushroom products. Please contact us for your non-binding offer..
Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies to scientifically prove them. Therefore, not all statements can currently be accepted by conventional medicine.
The information contained in this article regarding legal regulations, approvals, and possible uses of raw materials is based on careful research and our current state of knowledge (as of July 2025). However, we assume no liability for the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information.
The legal framework for food and food supplements is subject to constant change. Therefore, the manufacturer or distributor is always responsible for checking the applicable regulations, EU regulations, and approval lists for the use of raw materials and health-related claims.
In case of legal uncertainty, we recommend consulting legal experts or the relevant authorities.
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