We presented two topics at the following conference.
42nd Academic Meeting in the Japanese Society of Eastern Medicine
Date: November 24 (Sun)
Venue: Ochanomizu Sola City Conference Center (Tokyo)
https://www.jptoho.or.jp/gakkai/meeting.html
１）Improvement of Male Sexual Function and Hair Growth Effects of Outdoor-Cultivated King Agaricus KA21 Fruiting Bodies”
Objective
Agaricus brasiliensis is a medicinal mushroom native to Brazil with a variety of reported health benefits. Its characteristics vary greatly depending on cultivation methods and regions. Outdoor-cultivated Agaricus has been found to contain higher levels of the primary active component, β-glucan, along with abundant vitamin D and strong antioxidant activity compared to indoor-cultivated varieties. Among them, Agaricus KA21, cultivated outdoors in Brazil, has demonstrated immune-enhancing effects, such as activating NK cells, and improving quality of life (QOL) in both healthy individuals and athletes in human clinical trials. This study evaluates its effects on male sexual function in men aged 50 and older.
Methods
Test Product
The product was a supplement in tablet form, containing 300 mg of 100% Agaricus KA21 per tablet.
Men aged 50–69 years (n=24) were instructed to take 900 mg of KA21 daily for two months. Before and after the intervention, participants completed self-assessment questionnaires, including the Erection Hardness Score (EHS), to evaluate changes related to erectile dysfunction (ED).
Results and Discussion
A significant improvement in EHS scores and other indicators was observed. The improvement in male sexual function is likely associated with the autonomic nervous system-regulating properties of KA21, as well as the presence of nutrients such as zinc, arginine, and citrulline.
２）Hair Growth-Promoting Effects and Mechanisms of Outdoor-Cultivated King Agaricus KA21 Fruiting Bodies
Objective
Agaricus brasiliensis, a medicinal mushroom rich in β-glucan, is known for its various physiological benefits. Previous studies by our group have shown that outdoor-cultivated Agaricus KA21 improved coat and fur condition in senior dogs and cats and reduced hair loss in human clinical trials. This study aimed to evaluate the hair growth-promoting effects of KA21 using a hair-loss model in mice and to assess the influence of cultivation methods on its efficacy.
Methods
Seven-week-old male C3H mice with shaved dorsal regions were fed experimental diets daily for 24 days. The groups consisted of:
Control group: Base diet
Outdoor-Cultivated Agaricus 5% group
Indoor-Cultivated Agaricus 5% group
Hair regrowth in the shaved area was monitored on days 18 and 25, and the hair growth-promoting effects of the test diets were analyzed. Both outdoor- and indoor-cultivated Agaricus KA21 fruiting bodies from Brazil were used. The study was approved by the Animal Experiment Committee of Hokudo Co., Ltd., and conducted at their Toya Laboratory.
Results and Discussion
The outdoor-cultivated Agaricus 5% group showed the highest hair regrowth scores, followed by the indoor-cultivated Agaricus 5% group and the control group. These results suggest that the oral intake of outdoor-cultivated Agaricus KA21 has hair growth-promoting potential. Mechanisms may involve KA21’s rich nutritional content, previously reported effects on IGF-1 production, improved circulation, stress reduction, and enhanced sleep quality, all of which contribute to hair growth. Further research is required to elucidate detailed mechanisms.
Conclusion
Outdoor-cultivated Agaricus KA21 shows promise as a unisex hair growth supplement.
