Agaricus blazei Bioactive Compounds and their Effects on Human Health: Benefits and Controversies

Background: The mushroom Agaricus blazei has evoked considerable scientific and practical interest in several fields, especially those linked to its medicinal properties. This review aims to summarize and evaluate the past decade findings related to nutritional and therapeutic uses of A. blazei, with especial emphasis on the most recent discoveries regarding its chemical composition and clinical investigations. Keywords: Agaricus blazei Murrill, beta-glucan, bioactive molecules, medicinal properties, clinical studies, immunomodulation.