AHCC

Alternative Medicine The following information is specific for alternative and complementary medicine. For additional evidence-based information on diseases, conditions, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and wellness issues, continue searching the Healthwise Knowledgebase.

Common name:

• Active Hexose Correlated Compound

Botanical Names

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.

Health Concerns

AHCC has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Cancer
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Traditional Use

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

Active constituents

AHCC consists of polysaccharides, particularly low molecular weight alpha-1,3-glucans, amino acids, and minerals.

Dosage

How much is usually taken?

Studies have typically administered 3 grams per day orally.

Side Effects

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.

---

Last Review: 01-21-2009

Copyright © 2009 Aisle7  All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net

Learn more about Aisle7.

Learn more about the authors of Aisle7 products.

The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.

	Go to top of page
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.