Volvariella volvacea:A Macrofungus Having Nutritional and Health Potential

Medicinal mycology has deep and firm ischolar_mains in fungi traditional uses in the medicine of far east. Medicinal mushrooms are moving from fringe to mainstream use with a greater number of people seeking remedies and health approaches free from side effects caused by synthetic chemicals. There are about 38,000 different varieties of mushrooms in which 300 mushroom species are edible and pharmacological research is going on for its medicinal properties. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review on the edible and medicinal properties of Volvariella volvacea. Volvariella volvacea is an edible mushroom belonging to Pluteaceae family and is widely grown in tropical, subtropical regions and temperate regions of both the eastern and the western hemispheres. It is widely used in traditional medicinal system of India and is reported to possess anti-tumor, immunosuppressant and immunomodulatory effects. It is known as a rich source of protein, fibers (chitin), vitamins (large amount of vitamin C, and also all water soluble vitamins like riboflavin, biotin and thiamine), fats (5.7%), carbohydrates (56.8%), amino acids (all essential amino acids like alanine, arginine, glycine, serine etc.), unsaturated fatty acids, essential minerals (potassium, sodium and phosphorus) and has low calorific values. The innumerable medicinal properties of V. volvacea as well its phytochemical investigations prove its importance as a valuable medicinal mushroom.