In the world of functional mushrooms, Agaricus blazei Murill (ABM) often flies under the radar. But when you compare it side by side with other well-known varieties like reishi, shiitake, and lion’s mane, the unique benefits of ABM come into sharp focus.
Let’s take a closer look at how ABM stacks up.
Nutritional and Bioactive Profile
Most medicinal mushrooms are valued for their polysaccharides (especially beta-glucans), antioxidants, and various terpenes or sterols. ABM contains all of these—but in broader combinations and at higher concentrations in some studies.
| Mushroom | Primary Benefits | Key compounds | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
|
ABM |
Immune modulation, inflammation balance, cellular support
|
β-glucans, ergosterol, antioxidants, blazein, agaritine
|
Over 190 nutrients; researched in cancer care, gut health, and inflammation |
|
Reishi |
Calming, immune regulation, liver support |
Triterpenes, ganoderic acids, polysaccharides
|
Often used in traditional Eastern medicine for longevity |
|
Shiitake |
Cardiovascular and liver support |
Lentinan, eritadenine, polysaccharides |
Popular in food and supplementation |
|
Lion’s Mane |
Nerve support, cognition
|
Hericenones, erinacines
|
Often highlighted for brain health |
ABM stands out for its immune-balancing properties, especially in studies involving recovery, inflammation, and support during chemotherapy.
The Fruit of the Matter: Why Fruiting Body Matters
All the mushrooms above are most potent when harvested as mature fruiting bodies. This is the visible part of the fungus, not the underground mycelium.
Unfortunately, many commercial supplements use mycelium-on-grain instead, which lacks the full range of beneficial compounds. At Desert Forest Nutritionals®, we use only:
- Non-hybridized ABM fruiting body
- Brazilian-grown in nutrient-rich soil
- No grain-based fillers, no mycelium, no maltodextrin
Research Snapshot
Here’s a glimpse into the growing body of research on ABM:
- ABM polysaccharides support immune response modulation and inflammatory balance.
- Dual-extracted fruiting body ABM is used in studies on cellular protection, gut health, and recovery.
- Clinical trials and animal models suggest potential supportive roles in chemotherapy recovery, liver protection, and microbiome balance.
Choosing the Right Mushroom Supplement
If you’re choosing a mushroom product for targeted wellness support, ask these questions:
- Is it made from fruiting body or mycelium?
- Is the extract dual-extracted (hot water + alcohol)?
- Does it list specific compounds or just general terms?
With ABM from Desert Forest Nutritionals®, the answer to all three is clear: fruiting body only, dual-extracted, and rich in named active compounds.
Bibliography
- Hetland, G. et al. (2008). Effects of the medicinal mushroom Agaricus blazei Murill on immunity, infection, and cancer. Nutr Rev, 66(2), 91–102.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18782264/
2. Wasser, S. P. (2011). Current findings, future trends, and unsolved problems in studies of medicinal mushrooms. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol, 89(5), 1323–1332.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21190105/
3. Osaki Y., Kato, T., Yamamoto, K., Okubo, J., & Miyasaki, T. (1994). Antimutagenic and bactericidal substances in the fruit body of a Basidiomycete Agaricus blazei. Yakugaku Zasshi, 114(5), 342–350. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8014843/
- Hetland, G. et al. (2008). Effects of the medicinal mushroom Agaricus blazei Murill on immunity, infection, and cancer. Nutr Rev, 66(2), 91–102.