Oyster mushrooms, or pleuritus species, are group of gilled mushrooms. It is important to note that mushrooms are classified as fungi, and are technically different from plants, they are good substitute for meat in our diets.

There Are several types of oyster mushroom, including pleuritus ostreatus, commonly known as the American oyster mushroom. All types of edible mushrooms are commonly enjoyed in dishes like pasta and stir fries.

Mushroom are noted for their impressive health promoting property and contain variety of powerful compounds. It's worth noting that they have been used in traditional medicine approaches for centuries.

This to article covers four shocking benefits of oyster mushroom.

1. Source of Antioxidants

Oyster mushrooms provide antioxidants, which are substances that help reduce cellular damage in your body

For example, seven phenolic compounds have been detected in P. ostreatus extracts, including gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, and naringenin — all of which act as antioxidants in your body.

These mushrooms also contain the amino acid ergothioneine, which has powerful antioxidant effects.

A 2007 study in rodents found that treatment with oyster mushroom extract improved antioxidant levels and lowered certain inflammatory markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), in older rats.

Similarly, a 2020 rat study observed that the extract showed antioxidant effects and helped reduce liver damage caused by toxic chemicals.

What’s more, a 2016 test-tube study found that extract from gray oyster mushroom (Pleurotus pulmonarius) inhibited oxidative damage to human artery cells and prevented oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol, possibly thanks to the amino acid ergothioneine.

Oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol is involved in the process of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries that can lead to heart disease.

Although animal and test-tube studies suggest that oyster mushrooms provide antioxidants and may protect against cellular damage, more research in humans is needed.

2. Rich in nutrients

Oyster mushrooms are loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients. They’re also low in carbohydrates, so they’re a good choice for people following.

Here’s the nutritional content of 1 cup (86 grams) of raw P. ostreatus oyster mushrooms:

• Calories: 28

• Carbs: 5 grams

• Protein: 3 grams

• Fat: <1 gram

• Fiber: 2 grams

• Niacin: 27% of the Daily Value (DV)

• Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5): 22% of the DV

• Folate: 8% of the DV

• Choline: 8% of the DV

• Potassium: 8% of the DV

• Iron: 6% of the DV

• Phosphorus: 8% of the DV

• Zinc: 6% of the DV

The mushrooms also contain smaller amounts of other nutrients, including vitamin D and selenium.

3. it benefits heart health

Oyster mushrooms may promote heart health by reducing heart disease risk factors like high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

P. ostreatus is especially high in several compounds that benefit heart health, including fibers called beta-glucans.

Beta-glucans are fermented by gut bacteria to produce short-chain fatty acids that can help reduce cholesterol production in your body. Interestingly, P. ostreatus provides twice as many beta-glucans as white button mushrooms.

A small 2011 randomized control trial in 20 people found that eating a soup containing 30 grams of dried P. ostreatus for 21 days decreased triglycerides, total cholesterol, and oxidized LDL (bad) cholesterol levels compared with placebo treatment .

Plus, a 2020 review of eight human studies found that P. ostreatus intake helped lower blood sugar, triglycerides, blood pressure, and insulin levels, all of which could decrease heart disease risk.

However, the authors acknowledged that all available studies have a high risk of bias and that future well-designed studies are needed to better understand how P. ostreatus intake may improve heart health.

4. Other potential benefits 

In addition to the possible benefits listed above, research suggests oyster mushrooms may promote health in other ways:

• Potential anti-tumor properties. Research in test tubes and animals suggests that these mushrooms may provide anti-tumor effects. However, human research is lacking.

• Gut health benefits. A 2021 rodent study found that supplementing the diet of obese rats with oyster mushrooms decreased the growth of pathogenic bacteria and increased the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids in their guts.

• Anti-inflammatory effects. These mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory compounds. A 2020 rat study found that oral treatment with P. ostreatus extract significantly reduced induced paw inflammation.T

• Conclusion

• Oyster mushrooms are a popular type of mushroom linked to several health benefits.

  In addition to being highly nutritious, they may promote heart and immune system health, encourage healthy blood sugar control, and provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

  Try adding these versatile mushrooms to your diet by using them in dishes like pasta, stews, and omelets.