Oyster Mushroom And Its Surprising Benefits
Over the years, numerous superfoods have been recognized because of their various benefits to the body and to the environment.
Among them are different species of mushrooms.
Mushrooms grow well all over the world and they have long been used as staple food and as ingredient to many cuisines in various cultures. Aside from their culinary purposes, most of them were cultivated and processed as natural remedies for many ailments.
Oyster mushrooms are getting noticed lately. This versatile food is beginning to get recognized because of the health benefits it provides.
Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) has a shell-like appearance and resembles that of oysters. It has a licorice-like aroma and mild flavor.
There are other types of oyster mushrooms, namely pearl, blue, king, golden, pink, and phoenix oyster mushrooms. Each has distinct and unique differences in taste, scent, and appearance.
Nutrients and Benefits
Decreases Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Oyster mushroom produces statin compound naturally. This substance has helps in lowering the body’s total cholesterol level and prevents hardening of arteries.
Fights Cancer
The polysaccharide beta-D-glucan known as pleuran can be isolated from oyster mushroom and stimulates the immune system to capture free radicals which promote the growth of certain types of cancer.
Prevents Neurodegenerative Diseases
Oyster mushroom can provide nutrients which have major impact on your brain cells, thus improving brain functions. Niacin and Riboflavin are two organic compounds present in oyster mushrooms.
Niacin has been shown to protect your brain cells against dementia, alzheimers disease and other cognitive problems you may encounter as you grow old. And Riboflavin is known to inhibit some neuron disorders.
Protects the Body against Inflammatory Conditions
Oyster mushroom has been distinguished to possess anti-inflammatory substances. These substances may provide relief from inflamation like rheumatoid arthritis.
Lowers Blood Sugar
Guanide compound in oyster mushroom provides powerful anti-hyperglycemic effect, thus it naturally lowers blood sugar level and prevents type 1 and 2 diabetes.
Controls Blood Pressure
It is found to have compounds to relax the smooth muscles of the arterial walls, and thus control the rising of your blood pressure.
Effective against Certain Bacteria and Viruses
Oyster mushroom has displayed to be effective in slowing down the spread of bacterial infections caused by E. coli, Staph and Candida organisms.
Also an anti-viral protein, Ubiquitin, was isolated from oyster mushroom and has potential ability to reduce cell replication in viruses.