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Agarikon Mushroom Benefits

Agarikon has many purported health benefits. It contains numerous active compounds, including agaric acid, carotenoids, fatty acids, vitamins, and more.

Its primary use is as an antimicrobial agent, with potential antiviral and antibacterial properties. It may also be effective against some parasites. Traditionally, people used the mushroom to treat various infectious diseases, including tuberculosis (TB).

A 2017 study found that agarikon extract had moderate antibacterial properties against gram-positive but not gram-negative bacteria. A 2019 review suggested that it has antibacterial and antiviral activity against various species.

Agarikon contains complex carbohydrates called polysaccharides, which have proven immunomodulatory properties.

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It has also been used in Iranian medicine to boost immunity. Like other mushrooms, agarikon contains complex carbohydrates called polysaccharides, which have proven immunomodulatory properties.

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In 2020, the University of California received FDA approval to study agarikon for COVID-19 infection, alongside another medicinal mushroom called turkey tail. At the time of writing, the results of this research are yet to be released. 

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Agarikon Medicinal Uses

In addition to its antimicrobial properties, there are several other possible agarikon uses. According to a 2016 publication, they include:

• Asthma

• Cough

• Night sweats

• Digestive aid

• Laxative

Scientists are also investigating its potential as a treatment for metabolic syndrome. This group of conditions includes obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. However, further research is required in this area.

Finally, a 2020 study on mice suggested that agarikon may have anticancer effects in combination with other mushrooms and chemotherapy. The treatment decreased tumor size and increased survival rates in an animal model of colorectal cancer. Once again, though, more research is necessary to determine whether these benefits can be replicated in humans.