Unveiling the Nutritional, Therapeutic, and Environmental Impact of Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus species): A Review

Mushrooms have become gradually prominent in modern diets, with a surge in consumption across a diverse array of species. Among these, the genus Pleurotus, colloquially known as "Oyster mushrooms", stands out, boasting nearly 40 distinct species. Pleurotus ostreatus (P. ostreatus), in particular, relishes widespread popularity globally due to its mouth-watering taste, appealing flavor profile, and remarkable nutritional profile. Well-known for its abundance of indispensable nutrients and bioactive compounds, P. ostreatus has been the subject of extensive research highlighting its many-sided medicinal properties. Studies have projected its potential as an antidiabetic, antibacterial, anticholesterol, antiarthritic, antioxidant, anticancer, and antiviral agent, concomitant with encouraging eye health. This review underscores the remarkable nutritional richness of P. ostreatus and delves into its profound implications for medicinal applications, positioning these mushrooms as indispensable nutraceutical functional foods with vast therapeutic potential.