ABSTRACT
In the global market for mushrooms, oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus species) are extremely important. In many parts of the world, it is primarily consumed and grown. Around 25% of all commercially grown mushrooms are Pleurotus mushrooms. In both Europe and America, these species are well-known specialty mushrooms. It is one of the most widely eaten species in Korea and its production is quite profitable. Because of its flavour, taste, high nutritional content, and certain therapeutic characteristics, mushrooms are popular with most people. Because they contain a variety of bioactive substances, including proteins, lectins, nucleosides, peptides, lipids, and their derivatives, Pleurotus species are known to repair the environment and promote good health. Oyster mushrooms are high in dietary fibre, polysaccharides, fibres. It includes certain bioactive compounds with some pharmacological potential, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-hypercholesterolemia, anti-allergic, antimicrobial, anticancer, hypertensive, and anti-hepatoprotective actions. Oyster mushrooms were pharmacologically important as functional foods, according to their high nutritional content and prospective medicinal applications. This chapter aims to provide information on the mushroom's potential as a nutraceutical, as well as its medicinal characteristics, bioactive ingredients, and advantages. It also discusses how to maintain the mushroom and encourage a healthy lifestyle.
