What is Agaricus Blazei Murill Mushroom Extract?
Agaricus blazei Murill mushroom extract is a natural health supplement that is becoming extremely popular in Japan. With multiple health benefits, such as enhancing immune system performance and regulating blood sugar levels, it’s clear why the demand for the Agaricus blazei mushroom is increasing worldwide.
Fruiting Body or Mycelium?
Supplement and pharmaceutical manufacturers often use the fruit body or mycelium of the Agaricus blazei mushroom to produce the extract. The fruiting body is the portion of the fungus that is above ground, where it is exposed to air and light. It appears when the environmental conditions are suitable for reproduction. The primary function of the fruiting body is reproduction. It produces and releases spores, which are essential for the dispersal and propagation of the fungus.The mycelium is the part of the fungus typically located within the substrate, whether it's soil, wood, or another organic material. It spreads and grows beneath the surface or within the host, branching out to search for nutrients. The mycelium's primary function is to absorb nutrients and water from its surroundings. It plays a crucial role in the decomposition of organic matter and the uptake of essential nutrients. Mycelium acts as the digestive and nutrient-absorbing structure of the fungus.
The nutritional profiles of the fruiting body and mycelium are slightly different. The fruiting body extract is considered more delicious, nutritious, and expensive than the mycelium extract. The fruiting body contains higher levels of beta-glucans, minerals (i.e., selenium, phosphorous, copper, zinc, and potassium), and vitamins, such as C, D, and B.
Overall, there are scientific and medical studies on the health benefits of Agaricus blazei fruiting body and mycelium. Both fruiting body and mycelium offer slightly different values. In our mushroom product offerings, our mushroom formulas were developed based on scientific evidence to provide the targeted health benefits. Therefore, our formulas include fruiting bodies and mycelium, depending on the product formula's intention. However, mycelium extract products will likely be cheaper due to their low production cost, and the fruiting body is more expensive since it requires a much-extended duration to grow before harvesting.
Liquid or Powder?
Agaricus blazei extract products usually come in two forms: liquid or powder.
Agaricus blazei liquid extracts usually have a strong, earthy flavor that many consumers may not be used to. However, this flavor can be easily masked by mixing the extract into liquid foods such as soups, smoothies, juices, or hot drinks. The liquid form is usually recommended for those with weaker digestive systems as it’s easier for the body to process.
Agaricus blazei powder extracts, on the other hand, are essentially flavorless due to the capsules that are often used to hold the powder.
Health Benefits of Agaricus Blazei Murill
Taking Agaricus blazei mushroom supplements have been shown to have the following health benefits:
- Supports healthy insulin sensitivity, which can help regulate blood sugar levels so that they are not too high
- Strengthens the immune system, reducing the risk of illness due to viruses and bacteria.
- Supports cellular health, reducing the risk of abnormal cell growth in the body.
- Works as an antioxidant, helping to protect the body from free radicals, which can cause damage to cells and lead to infections and disease.
Side Effects of Taking Agaricus Blazei Mushroom
Although rare, ingesting Agaricus blazei mushrooms can lead to a few minor side effects, which can include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Upset Stomach
- Low blood sugar
Where to Buy Agaricus Blazei Mushroom Products
Agaricus blazei mushroom products can be purchased online or at your local health food store. However, it’s always wise to do some research on the brand that you’re buying from.
The strain of mushroom used, the country of origin, and the type of extraction method can vary between manufacturers, which can affect the efficacy and potency of the final product.
If you’re looking to buy some Agaricus blazei supplements for yourself, we highly recommend our Agaricus Bio products. With over 80 years of experience in fungal manufacturing and a patented H1X1 strain, we’re one of the world’s top suppliers for high quality organic Agaricus blazei mushroom supplements.