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. 2012 Apr;19(2):131-46.
doi: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2012.01.003. Epub 2012 Jan 14.

Agaricus subrufescens: A review

Komsit Wisitrassameewong  1 , Samantha C Karunarathna, Naritsada Thongklang, Ruilin Zhao, Philippe Callac, Serge Moukha, Cyril Férandon, Ekachai Chukeatirote, Kevin D Hyde
Affiliations

Agaricus subrufescens: A review

Komsit Wisitrassameewong et al. Saudi J Biol Sci. 2012 Apr.

Abstract

Medicinal mushrooms have currently become a hot issue due to their various therapeutic properties. Of these, Agaricus subrufescens, also known as the "almond mushroom", has long been valued by many societies (i.e., Brazil, China, France, and USA). Since its discovery in 1893, this mushroom has been cultivated throughout the world, especially in Brazil where several strains of A. subrufescens have been developed and used as health food and alternative medicine. This article presents up-to-date information on this mushroom including its taxonomy and health promoting benefits. Medicinal properties of A. subrufescens are emphasized in several studies which are reviewed here. In addition, safety issues concerning the use of this fungus will be discussed.

Keywords: Anti-cancer properties; Bioactive compounds; Medicinal mushroom; Toxicity; β-Glucans.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Agaricus subrufescens. (A) basidiocarp, (B) Schaeffer’s cross-reaction on pileus.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Products from Agaricus subrufescens. (A) fresh mushroom (Http://www.diabetichealthyresources.com/can-a-mushroom-from-brazil-be-the-secret-to-brain-health/, 2010), (B) dried mushroom (Http://www.sunwahfoods.com/subpages/home.php, 2010), (C) nutrient supplement (Http://www.sunfood.com/buy/1/10/Agaricus-blazei-Mushroom-Science-90-veg-ca, 2010), (D) coffee (Http://quezon-city.olx.com.ph/brazilian-coffee-8-in-1-slimming-coffee-iid-6, 2010) and (E) shampoo (Http://www.vitamegacosmetic.com/, 2010).
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