Agaricus blazei Extract (Himematsutake)

A few decades ago, researchers noticed in a mountain region (Ideate) near Sao Paulo, Brazil that Agaricus blazei Murill (ABM), a local mushroom, was a regular part of the inhabitants diet. A study conducted by Dr. Shoji Shibata, a professor at Tokyo University, compared several mushrooms to ABM, including Reishi and Shitake. His results indicated that they are not as effective as ABM. ABM was ranked at the top of the list!

Researchers have since isolated large amounts of a very important polysaccharide called ‘beta glucan’ in ABM. Although other mushrooms also contain beta glucan, the ABM mushroom contains the highest level of all the mushrooms tested for this important polysaccharide!

This species contains a unique beta 1-6 linkage and has an extensive history of use as a folk remedy in the areas of Brazil where it was originally discovered. Research has also shown that Agaricus blazei contains more beta glucans than any of the other medicinal mushrooms tested so far. The in-vitro research and animal studies both show significant immune stimulating properties.

Research has been done on water soluble and alcohol soluble fractions of the polysaccharides, all of which were isolated through a hot water or hot water/alcohol extraction process. As with the other medicinal mushrooms, the primary active compounds in Agaricus blazei, the polysaccharides, are internal structural components of the indigestible cell walls. Extraction with a heated aqueous solution is required to release these active compounds into a bio-available form.

We offer Fungi Perfecti’s alcohol-based medicinal mushroom extracts, in 1 and 2 fluid ounce bottles, made from pure mushroom mycelium cultured on Certified Organic brown rice. 30 drops of extract is equivalent to 1 gram of mushroom mycelium/fruitbodies, and can be consumed directly or mixed into your favorite beverage. Recommended use: 15 to 30 drops, twice per day.

Since 1980, Fungi Perfecti has been at the forefront of the gourmet and medicinal mushroom movement. Founder Paul Stamets, author of the definitive text “Growing Gourmet & Medicinal Mushrooms,” has pioneered the cultivation of many unique strains of medicinal fungi. Strains are continuously tested at our research and production facility. Located at the base of the pristine Olympic Peninsula of Washington State, our 17 acre farm on the Puget Sound is the ideal site for the isolation and adaptation of potent new mushroom strains from the wild.

Fungi Perfecti is dedicated to making the best medicinal mushroom products, and uses only the highest quality ingredients. All of our products are Certified Organic by the Washington State Organic Food Certification Program. They are free of pesticides, heavy metals and other contaminants and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). They are also Kosher Certified. Cultivated and processed under environmentally controlled laboratory conditions, you can be assured that you are getting a bona-fide product of the highest quality.

‘Fungi Perfecti, owned by mycologist and author Paul Stamets, is the best all-round source for medicinal mushroom products and information.’ – Dr. Andrew Weil.