The medicinal mushroom almond mushroom is said to have an immune-boosting effect. In this article, you will learn what the almond mushroom is, what ingredients it contains and how it affects the body.
What is almond mushroom?
The almond mushroom ( Agaricus blazei ) is a medicinal mushroom that comes from the Brazilian rainforest. It belongs to the mushroom family (Agaricus) and owes its name to its almond-like aroma.
It is not only used as an edible mushroom in the kitchen, but also specifically as a dietary supplement in the form of extracts or dried powder.
What ingredients does the almond mushroom contain?
The almond mushroom is rich in numerous nutrients. [1] The exact composition varies depending on the origin and processing method.
- Proteins
- Minerals: zinc , potassium and phosphorus
- B vitamins : especially vitamin B2 and vitamin B3
- β-Glucans
- Triterpenes
- Coenzyme Q10
- GABA (a neurotransmitter)
- Lovastatin (a cholesterol-lowering drug )
Like other mushrooms, the almond mushroom is very rich in β-glucans. β-glucans occur naturally in the cell walls of mushrooms. They are sugar molecules (polysaccharides) that are linked together. However, these are not digestible, which is why they are considered dietary fiber.
The effect of β-glucans on the human body is currently being scientifically investigated. Studies suggest that β-glucans probably have a positive effect on cholesterol levels, lower blood lipid levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. [2] In addition, β-glucans serve as food for beneficial intestinal bacteria (prebiotics) and can thus improve the intestinal flora. [3]
β-glucans are also said to have an immune-regulating effect, for which there is some scientific evidence. They appear to be able to strengthen the immune system and at the same time have an anti-inflammatory effect.
What does almond mushroom do?
Due to its ingredients, the effects of almond mushroom are currently being scientifically investigated and there are some promising results.
Effect of almond mushroom on the immune system
Some studies suggest that the almond mushroom may strengthen the immune system and have a positive effect on the body's defense system. [4]
Almond mushroom for detoxification
Almond mushroom may potentially support the detoxification system and improve liver function. [5]
Blood pressure
Studies suggest that the almond mushroom may have a blood pressure regulating effect. [6]
Blood sugar
Almond mushroom may be able to regulate blood sugar levels and lower them when needed. [7]
Risks and side effects of almond mushroom
The almond mushroom is very well tolerated. In rare cases, however, it can cause digestive problems, nausea and skin rashes.
Buying almond mushrooms: what you should pay attention to
When it comes to almond mushrooms and other medicinal mushrooms, you should definitely pay attention to quality. Products are often contaminated and heavily loaded with harmful substances.
So make sure that the product has been tested for harmful substances and comes from a German laboratory. A high-quality product is also free of unnecessary additives such as binding, separating, gelling and filler agents and contains vitamin C as a bioenhancer.
[1] https://scielo.isciii.es/pdf/nh/v27n2/15_original_05.pdf
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5618555/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33864864/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21128829/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3730730/
[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24433071/
[7] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/fsn3.1310
