Oyster mushrooms, also known as Pleurotus ostreatus, are very popular in mycotherapy. It has a number of benefits for the metabolism, heart and natural defences, thanks to its beta-glucans and rich nutritional content
Oyster mushrooms: a healthy everyday mushroom
Oyster mushrooms are among the most widely cultivated mushrooms in the world. It is low in calories and fat, but provides protein, fibre, B vitamins, potassium, selenium and antioxidants
So, like many therapeutic mushrooms, it helps to support energy and metabolic balance, while remaining easy to incorporate into meals. What’s more, it’s ideal for people who want to eat more healthily, manage their weight and limit excess sugars and saturated fats
Oyster mushroom beta-glucans: support for the metabolism
Oyster mushrooms’ main strength comes from their beta-glucans, complex sugars that act on blood sugar levels, blood fats and inflammation. Clinical studies show that eating Pleurotus ostreatus can help to lower fasting and post-meal blood sugar levels, total and LDL cholesterol, and sometimes even blood pressure
These effects are of particular interest to people with metabolic syndrome, pre-diabetes or high cholesterol. However, oyster mushrooms work best when combined with a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and physical activity. In mycotherapy, it is therefore often used as a nutritional support and not as the sole solution
Oyster mushroom, immunity and cardiovascular protection
Oyster mushroom beta-glucans, particularly pleuran, also play a role in the immune system. They stimulate the action of macrophages, neutrophils and NK cells, boosting the body’s response to attacks, particularly on the respiratory tract
At the same time, oyster mushrooms provide antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory effects. It thus helps to limit LDL oxidation and mild but chronic inflammation, two important factors in the development of cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis
How can oyster mushrooms be used in mycotherapy?
You can use oyster mushrooms in cooking in the form of fresh, dried or powdered mushrooms. Regular consumption, several times a week for example, already contributes to a long-term “health food” effect
As a dietary supplement, some products offer extracts standardised in beta-glucans, such as pleuran. The aim is to support immunity, especially in winter or for more fragile people. In all cases, it is advisable to seek the advice of a health professional. Particularly in the case of multiple treatments, allergy to mushrooms or chronic illness
Conclusion
Oyster mushrooms are a valuable natural health product . Thanks to its beta-glucans, fibre and antioxidants, it supports the metabolism, the immune system and cardiovascular health. It’s also easy to use in cooking or as a supplement
