lmond Mushroom : Nature's Nutritious Nourishment
This unique fungus, scientifically known as Agaricus subrufescens , not only delights the senses with its nutty fragrance but also holds within its delicate form a wealth of therapeutic potential waiting to be harnessed for the betterment of human health.
The Almond Mushroom, also known as the Brazilian mushroom, was first discovered in Brazil by Albert Charles Munn, a British botanist, in the 1920s. Munn found this unique species of mushroom growing wild in the Brazilian rainforest, specifically in the São Paulo region. It was later formally classified as Agaricus subrufescens.
The mushroom’s discovery in Brazil led to its local cultivation, and it gradually gained popularity in the culinary world. Over the years, it has spread to other parts of the world, including the United States and Europe. Today, it is commercially cultivated in several countries, and its appeal has extended beyond its native habitat in Brazil.
What truly distinguishes the Almond Mushroom is its unique aroma, reminiscent of freshly roasted almonds. This characteristic fragrance fills the air as the mushroom matures, attracting foragers and enthusiasts alike to its hidden bounty. It is within this aromatic embrace that the Almond Mushroom reveals its culinary and medicinal potential, offering a journey into the depths of nature's bounty.
This mushroom gets much attention due to its immunomodulatory effect.
When the conditions are right and enough energy has become absorbed, chemical signaling will cause this mycelium concentrate at a specific point. Here, if compatible haploid cell merge, a dikaryotic fruiting body will emerge. Some of these mushrooms get plucked from the forest floor to become more closely analyzed. Over the past three decades, the medicinal properties of this incredible species have given rise to a wide array of uses beneficial to human health.
While the Almond Mushroom may entice the palate with its delightful aroma and flavor, its true magic lies in its medicinal qualities. Rich in bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, this mushroom harbors a treasure trove of therapeutic potential waiting to be unlocked and harnessed for the betterment of human health.
One of the most notable medicinal properties of the Almond Mushroom lies in its immune-boosting effects. Studies have shown that extracts derived from this mushroom exhibit potent immunomodulatory activity, stimulating the production and activity of immune cells such as macrophages and natural killer cells. This immune-boosting prowess helps fortify the body's defenses against infections and diseases, making it a valuable ally in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Moreover, the Almond Mushroom possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms associated with a wide range of inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease. By reducing the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and promoting the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, this mushroom helps to quell inflammation and alleviate pain and discomfort.
Furthermore, research suggests that the Almond Mushroom may offer potential benefits for cardiovascular health. Compounds found within the mushroom have been shown to support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels, reducing blood pressure, and improving blood circulation. These findings suggest that the mushroom may play a role in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke.
Almond Mushroom extracts and polysaccharides showed anti-inflammatory activity in many studies. Extract rich in cerevisterol suppressed IL-6 secretion and expression of the cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 in vitro (Song et al. 2012). Almond Mushroom polysaccharides have anti-inflammatory activity interfering in the biosynthesis and secretion of inflammatory mediators. Oral administration suppressed the expression
of NF-κB and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). It reduced the serum
levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, COX-2, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in vivo
(Wang et al. 2013b). The anti-inflammatory effect of Almond Mushroom-based extract,
Andosan, has been reported in a placebo-controlled clinical study in patients with
ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. The extract showed a partial reduction in pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines (Therkelsen et al. 2016). Thus, Almond Mushroom possesses
anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in vivo, associated with decreased biosynthesis and secretion of inflammatory mediator expression of enzymes, the polysaccharides, the main responsible for this activity.
The antioxidant effect of this species is one of the main underlying mechanisms of
this mushroom that is well-documented. It scavenged 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl
(DPPH); azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals also
exhibited antioxidant action in ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay
and lipid peroxidation assay in vitro (Bach et al. 2019; Carneiro et al. 2013; Wei
et al. 2020). A. blazei extracts also exhibited antioxidant effect in vivo by reducing
malondialdehyde (MDA) (a marker of lipid peroxidation) and alleviated glutathione
(GSH) level, enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (Al-Dbass et al. 2012).
Oral administration of A. blazei polysaccharides reduced the triglyceride (TG),
total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and increased
high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) plasma levels. Furthermore, it
upregulated the expression of CYP7A1. This enzyme limits the conversion of CH
to bile acid in the liver and inhibits the transcription factor SREBP-1C, a factor
associated with TG metabolism and lipid deposition in cells (Ji et al. 2014; Li et al.
2020b).
Different extracts of Almond Mushroom inhibited α-glucosidase in a dose-dependent manner. They also improved the glucose uptake by insulin-resistant HepG2 cells and
alleviated postprandial hyperglycemia (Al-Dbass et al. 2012). A. blazei extract
decreased reduced serum glucose levels as well as HbA1C compared to control in
streptozocin-induced diabetes (Ji et al. 2014; Vitak et al. 2015). In addition, A. blazei
extracts ameliorated diabetic neuropathy by reducing TNF-α and IL-1β levels,
suppressing inflammation, and increasing antioxidant status (Ji et al. 2014). It also
exhibited antidiabetic effects in human studies. In a randomized, double-blind,
placebo-controlled clinical study, A. blazei extract improved insulin resistance
among subjects with type 2 diabetes and increased adiponectin concentration after
12 weeks of oral treatment compared to control (Hsu et al. 2007).
Almond mushroom extract exhibited an antimicrobial effect against several common pathogens. It showed a higher antimicrobial effect against gram-positive bacteria than
gram-negative ones. The antimicrobial effect of Almond Mushroom is attributed to the phenolic content (Bach et al. 2019).
Many studies have mainly focused on cancer-related activities of Almond Mushroom
extracts and different components of this mushroom inhibited the proliferation of
various cancer cell lines related to the modulation of cyclin-dependent kinases and
their inhibitors, cell cycle proteins. Almond mushroom activated caspases, stimulated release of cytochrome c and radical oxygen species production, modulated proapoptotic and antiapoptotic proteins in turn, and stimulated apoptosis associated with NF-κB and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling (Jin et al. 2006; Kim et al. 2011; Matsushita et al. 2018; Yu et al. 2009). A. blazei also reduced tumor size and volume in animal models (Ito et al. 1997; Yu et al. 2009). A. blazei acts as immunostimulants, both in the proliferation and activation of lymphocytes (NK cells and T cells) and macrophages. These stimulated cells can produce cytokines, mainly IL-8 and IL-6 TNF-α (Bernardshaw et al. 2005; Johnson et al. 2009; Lima et al. 2011). Furthermore,
randomized controlled trials also proved the immunomodulating effect of A. blazei
(Tangen et al. 2015; Therkelsen et al. 2016). According to the literature, A. blazei
contains compounds, including polysaccharides, proteins, steroids, nucleosides, and
phenols, that may modulate tumorigenesis and carcinogenesis through different
mechanisms. Anticancer activity seems to be associated with polysaccharides
chiefly. The effects of different polysaccharides are likely to be mediated by various
cell-surface receptors. The combination of such responses mediated from different
polysaccharides conceivably provides greater tumor inhibition than if induced by a
single polysaccharide. In conclusion, A. blazei possesses anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, anxiolytic, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, anticancer, and
immunomodulatory properties. It seems that A. blazei exhibited these biological
effects mainly related to anti-inflammatory action. Unlike many other edible mushrooms, there is a commercial product of this mushroom. Current clinical trials have shown promising results in using this mushroom as an immunomodulator agent.
However, adequately designed, further clinical studies on standardized extracts are
needed
In addition to all of these anti-cancer qualities Agaricus subrufescens possess, other compounds isolated from this fungus can actually protect human DNA from being damaged. These anti-genotoxic activities guard against deleterious toxins our bodies sometime absorb. Cyclophosphamide, for example is a clastogenic agent which can cause chromosomes to breakage and more mutations to occur. These anti-genotoxic activities maintain the health of our actual genome!
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Traditional Chinese Medicine: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has long utilized various mushroom species or their medicinal properties. Agaricus subrufescens, known as “Ji Song Rong” in Chinese, is used in TCM to support immune function, enhance vitality, and promote overall well-being. It is often consumed in the form of teas or dietary supplements.
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Brazilian Folk Medicine: In its native Brazil, Almond Mushrooms have been traditionally used as a remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues and to strengthen the immune system. Indigenous communities in Brazil have incorporated this mushroom into their diet for generations.
Culinary and Traditional Uses: Beyond its medicinal properties, the Almond Mushroom has long been celebrated for its culinary versatility and nutritional value. Its delicate flavor and aroma make it a prized ingredient in a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to stir-fries and salads. Whether sautéed, roasted, or grilled, the Almond Mushroom adds a delightful nutty flavor and meaty texture to any culinary creation.
In addition to its culinary uses, the Almond Mushroom has a rich history of traditional use in various cultures around the world. Indigenous tribes have incorporated the mushroom into their healing rituals and herbal remedies, recognizing its profound connection to the natural world and its ability to promote health and vitality. Whether consumed as a food or used medicinally, the Almond Mushroom continues to be revered for its nourishing properties and therapeutic benefits.
In the enchanting world of the forest floor, the Almond Mushroom stands as a symbol of nature's bounty and resilience. Beyond its aromatic allure and culinary delights lies a journey into the depths of its medicinal qualities, where ancient wisdom converges with modern science to unlock the secrets of health and vitality. As we continue to explore the therapeutic potential of this remarkable fungus, may we embrace its nourishing embrace and celebrate the wonders of nature's pharmacy.
Q.C. (s)
