HIMEMATSUTAKE MUSHROOM Agaricus brasiliensis (=A. blazei )
Agaricus brasiliensis comes from an area near Sao Paulo, Brazil. Extensive experiments by researchers at the National Cancer Institute and in Tokyo demonstrated this mushroom to be very promising as an immunostimulant. It contains high levels of a unique beta glucan polysaccharide, evidently the compound responsible for the rapid anticancer and antiviral activity found in their tests. In addition to this anticancer effect through induction of cytokines, Himematsutake is shown to reduce blood pressure, modulate blood sugar, lower cholesterol and aid in reversing the effects of arteriosclerosis. 1–3 teaspoons (2–6 grams) of powder a day.