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Agarikon (Fomitopsis officinalis)
Rare old-growth mushroom with antiviral compounds studied for immune defense — one of the oldest medicinal fungi known to science.
What the evidence says
Most Agarikon studies are mechanism or observational rather than RCTs that measure a clinical effect — keep findings provisional.
Most evidence is from mixed-quality studies published 2008–2024.
Based on 9 studies
Confidence
LowBy outcome
Agarikon has an evidence score of 3.5/10 — emerging evidence based on 9 indexed studies. Rare old-growth mushroom with antiviral compounds studied for immune defense — one of the oldest medicinal fungi known to science.
The commonly studied dose of Agarikon is 500-1500mg extract daily. Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 1500mg, with a minimum effective dose near 500mg. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
Timing is flexible for Agarikon — consistent daily use matters more than the time of day. Fomitopsis officinalis (agarikon) polysaccharides and triterpenoids do not have strong time-of-day dependencies.
Shiitake
Probably helpsContains lentinan for immune enhancement and eritadenine for cholesterol reduction — both a culinary staple and medicinal tool.
Turkey Tail
Probably helpsImmune-supporting mushroom with the strongest evidence among medicinal mushrooms, used as cancer therapy adjunct in Asia.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 9 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Agarikon is one of the oldest mushrooms used medicinally, with references dating back to ancient Greek physician Dioscorides who called it the 'elixir of long life.' It grows on old-growth conifer trees and is now quite rare. Laboratory studies have revealed antiviral compounds, but human clinical evidence is very limited — most research remains preclinical (in-vitro and animal studies).
Contains multiple antiviral molecules
Supports immune system function
How Agarikon works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
500-1500mg extract daily
Loading: Not established
Can be taken without food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Agarikon extract | Recommended |
| 💊Capsules | Alternative |
| 💧Tincture | Alternative |
Due to rarity, ensure products come from sustainable, verified sources.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 12 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Relatively rare and expensive mushroom. Quality sources are important.
Evidence primarily from animal studies and in-vitro research. Polysaccharide compounds show immunomodulatory activity through TLR-4 interactions. Human clinical data limited. Conservative estimates due to lack of RCT data.
Enhanced immune defenses
May help protect against viral infections
Most evidence is from laboratory studies — most evidence is from animal and in-vitro studies
Limited human safety data; use with appropriate caution
Medicinal mushrooms may affect blood clotting; use caution
May counteract immunosuppressive effects due to immune-stimulating properties
May affect blood sugar levels; monitor glucose
Tip: Take with food
Agarikon is generally safe at recommended doses, with a few precautions worth noting. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset. Use caution if any of these apply to you: Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Agarikon or related compounds.
Maitake
Mostly mechanism / observationalRich in unique D-fraction beta-glucans that modulate immune function and help regulate blood sugar levels.
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