Nutraceutical use of the Agaricus blazei Murril mushroom in the treatment of breast cancer.

Abstract

Mushrooms have been used for millennia for several crops due to their medicinal and nutritional properties, and currently several researches have demonstrated their effectiveness as a nutraceutical product in the treatment of various types of diseases, among them cancer. This work aimed to carry out a bibliographical review about the benefits of the consumption of the mushroom Agaricus blazei Murril for the treatment in the female breast cancer. The survey showed that its actives, especially beta-glucan, show promising signs in reducing breast carcinogenic cells, as well as increasing the immune response of guinea pigs and patients treated with Agaricus blazei. Several studies are being done to elucidate the mechanism of action and the correct form for the treatment with this type of nutraceutical agent.