AHCC
Active Hexose Correlated Compound
Pinyin Name: Huóxìng Tángtài
English Name: Active Hexose Correlated Compound
Properties: sweet (tonifying, harmonizing)
Channels Entered: Stomach, Kidney, Lung, Large Intestine, Liver
Strengthen the stomach and intestines, strengthen the kidney and fortify bones, strengthen the immune system, supplement wei, qi and blood, tonify qi and yang, invigorate the blood, antihistamine, urticaria (allergic hives) are some of the imbalances satisfied clients have used this product for.
Primary Traditional Functions
Tonifies Qi and Supports Wei Qi
Spleen Meridian (Primary)
- Helps prevent recurrent illness due to deficiency
- Polysaccharides are viewed as Qi-tonifying and Damp-transforming
- Supports nutrient assimilation and immune resilience
- Supports production of Wei Qi (defensive/upright qi)
- Tonifies spleen qi
Lung Meridian
- Benefits immune signaling at the surface level
- Enhances resistance to external pathogens
- Immune modulation and resistance to external pathogens are Lung functions
- Supports defensive Qi
- The Lung governs Wei Qi
Stomach Meridian (Secondary)
- Good tolerance and absorption align with Stomach support
- Helps ensure tonic herbs are well tolerated
- Supports digestion and assimilation
- Taken orally and relies on digestion for effectiveness
- The Stomach works with the Spleen to generate post-heaven Qi
Liver Meridian (Indirect)
- Immune dysregulation relates to Liver Qi stagnation
- Chronic inflammation or stress weakens immune response
What AHCC Is Nutritionally
AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound) is a fermented mushroom combination derived from the cultured mycelia (roots) of tonic mushrooms, primarily shiitake (Lentinula edodes). It’s best known for its role in immune system support. AHCC is a specialized immune-support supplement with the strongest evidence for acting as a complementary nutritional strategy, enhancing immune cell activity, and supporting immune resilience during stress. Below is a clear, evidence-based overview of its nutritional uses and potential benefits, along with important cautions.
- Classified as a functional nutritional supplement, not a vitamin or mineral
- Rich in low-molecular-weight alpha-glucans, which are its active components
- Designed to be highly bioavailable (easily absorbed)
Nutritional Uses & Potential Benefits
Immune System Support
- Supports innate immunity (natural killer cells, macrophages)
- Enhances adaptive immunity (T cells and dendritic cells)
- Often used during periods of immune stress (e.g., frequent infections)
- Human and animal studies show increased NK cell activity
Support During Viral Infections
AHCC has been studied as a nutritional adjunct for viral immune response
- HPV (human papillomavirus)
- Influenza and other respiratory viruses
Inflammation Modulation
AHCC helps balance inflammatory responses, rather than simply suppressing inflammation
- Supports immune regulation
- Helps reduce chronic low-grade inflammation
- This is relevant in conditions where immune over-activation is a concern
Gut–Immune Axis Support
Because immune cells are closely linked to gut health, AHCC indirectly supports:
- Gut immune signaling
- Healthy microbiome-immune interactions
- It is not a probiotic, but works synergistically with gut health strategies
Concentration: >30% Alpha Glucans
Typical Usage of Concentrated Extract
1 to 3 grams per day or as directed by your wellness coach. Often taken on an empty stomach. Dosage varies depending on purpose and individual health status.
Cautions & Contraindications
AHCC is generally well tolerated by healthy adults.
- Possible uncommon, mild side effects: fatigue, gastrointestinal discomfort, or headache
- Use caution if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, on immunosuppressants, or have autoimmune conditions
Each package contains 1 kilogram.