Common name: Active Hexose Correlated Compound
Botanical name: Basidiomycetes
Parts used and where grown
AHCC™ is a newly developed “functional food” made through the
hybridization of several kinds of mushrooms belonging to the Basidiomycetes family, including
shiitake (Lentinula edodes), cultured in a liquid medium. The mushroom's sources and details
of methods of preparation have not been fully disclosed.
AHCC has been used in
connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
| Science Ratings |
Health Concerns |
 |
Cancer
|
Historical or traditional use (may
or may not be supported by scientific studies)
AHCC was not used in traditional medicine. The mushrooms of the type from which AHCC is
made were historically used as tonics and for chronic infections, anemia, and a variety of
other conditions.1
Active constituents
AHCC consists of polysaccharides, particularly low molecular weight alpha-1,3-glucans,
amino acids, and minerals.
How much is usually taken?
Studies have typically administered 3 grams per day orally.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
In the studies in which AHCC was given to people with cancer, no side effects or drug
interactions were observed. However, thorough studies establishing its safety have not been
conducted. There are no reports that AHCC is contraindicated in any condition. Use in
pregnancy and lactation have not been studied.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with AHCC.
References:1. Hobbs CR. Medicinal Mushrooms: An exploration of tradition,
healing & culture, 3rd ed. Santa Cruz, CA: Botanica Press, 1995.