Oyster mushrooms: health benefits and harms

Oyster mushroom is a type of mushroom that has been causing controversy for many centuries. Many mushroom pickers try to circumvent them, claiming that they are harmful to humans because they grow on rotten or diseased trees. Others are convinced that such mushrooms are useful in the presence of nutrients and are in no way inferior to other varieties.

What do oyster mushrooms look like and where do they grow

All species of Pleurotus (except one) grow on trees, which is why they got this name. Mostly they can be found on birch, aspen, willow and pine trees. They do no harm to the trees, because they begin to grow already on stumps or diseased plants. In nature, harvesting occurs from spring to autumn, depending on the species.

They are also easy to grow on substrates, so artificially grown product is most often found on store shelves. They are cultivated on sawdust, paper, shavings. The temperature and humidity of the cultivation does not matter. Therefore, 365 days a year, you can harvest.

Outwardly, the variety differs from others in that the hat, reaching a diameter of 5–20 cm, passes into a tubular 5-centimeter leg. Mushrooms grow in large groups, because of which you can often see several hats on one fruiting body. The weight of one group can reach 1-3 kg. Oyster mushroom is of several types, most of them are edible, but poisonous representatives of spore are also found. Depending on the subspecies, the color of the mushrooms can vary from white to brown-violet.

Kinds

Types of oyster mushrooms depend on the tree on which they grow. The most famous are the following:

1. Common. The most common type. It grows on the trunks of deciduous trees, it can be found from June to October. But in the early frosts, the mushrooms freeze. An oyster hat of gray or brown color grows up to 20 cm, in a group there can be about 40 pieces.
2. Horn-shaped. It has a distinctive shape of a hat in the form of a white funnel. When cut from a tree, the mushroom darkens to brown in a few hours. It grows on the trunks of maple and elm exclusively in the summer. In Japan, growing varieties on felled elms is widespread.
3. Pulmonary. It looks like a white horn-shaped, but the cap is flat, elongated. Young small fruits are distinguished by a special taste; stiffness is acquired with growth.
4. Gray. It grows in the USA and Europe on conifers. Gray color is acquired due to lack of light and high humidity.
5. Pink. It is rare in nature, in the tropics. A distinctive feature - the hat is located on the side of the legs. You can artificially achieve a characteristic coral color by growing mushrooms on corn cuttings, as well as chopped dried bolls and cotton stalks. The temperature required for fruit growth is above 30 ° C.
6. Mushroom-ilmak (lemon cap). The most beautiful and unusual variety. Its bright yellow hat has a pungent smell, and dishes from it acquire a nutty flavor. It grows on a tree of elm (elm), bears fruit longer than other species from mid-spring to late autumn.
7. Steppe. It is also called royal and the most delicious among other species. The best tastes are specimens with a gray-red color. When it discolors with age, the fungus loses its taste and acquires bitterness.It has a thick fleshy leg. This is the only species that grows on unpaved soil.

Composition and calorie content

The chemical composition of oyster mushrooms is saturated with a valuable vitamin complex, which includes vitamins:

1. A - beneficially affects the organ of vision, and also contributes to the rapid healing of the mucous membrane and bones.
2. B - the whole complex - promotes the regeneration of blood cells, which is necessary in the rehabilitation period after surgery. Improves skin and hair condition.
3. D - forms bone tissue, improves the nervous system, improves good mood. For athletes, it is indispensable due to the fact that it strengthens muscle tissue.
4. PP - cleanses the blood of cholesterol.
5. Betaine is necessary for diseases of the stomach and intestines.

The whole set of vitamins strengthens bones and muscles, improves the functioning of brain activity and the whole organism.

In addition to vitamins, the product is saturated with trace elements such as magnesium, calcium, zinc, fluorine, sodium and phosphorus.

Energy value is as follows:

• 100 g of mushrooms contain 35 calories.
• Fats - 0.41 g.
• Proteins - 3.31 g.
• Carbohydrates - 3.79 g.

What are the benefits of oyster mushrooms

These mushrooms are similar to meat and dairy products in the composition and the presence of excess vitamin D and protein. These substances help build and restore muscle mass and bone. In addition, oyster mushrooms:

• accelerate metabolism;
• break down cholesterol and thin the blood;
• reduce the risk of allergic reactions;
• remove toxins;
• stop cell mutation, which prevents the occurrence of cancer.

For women

1. Oyster mushrooms are rich in folic acid, which is part of the chemical composition. It helps in the treatment and prevention of gynecological diseases.
2. Favorably affect the condition of the skin and hair.
3. Promote rapid recovery in the postpartum period.
4. Help in the treatment of mastopathy.
5. Improve the digestive process and accelerate metabolism, help to quickly lose weight without re-gaining.
6. Beneficial effect on the thyroid gland.

For men

1. Restore the vital activity of sperm.
2. Treat male infertility.
3. They help with sports, contribute to the rapid gain of muscle mass.

During pregnancy

During this period, the use of oyster mushroom should be treated with caution. Due to their ability to absorb harmful substances from the environment, mushrooms collected near the route are especially dangerous. During this period, it is better to give preference to mushrooms grown artificially. If there is no doubt about the quality of the purchased product, then in moderate quantities they can be eaten or even needed.

1. Niacin promotes fetal development, normalizes blood circulation.
2. Lecithin regulates the work of the heart not only of a woman, but also of a child.
3. Due to its high nutritional value, mushrooms saturate the body, relieve hunger and do not allow you to gain excess weight.

During pregnancy, it is worthwhile to refrain from salted and pickled mushrooms. They are not only able to cause heartburn and increase toxicosis, but also lead to increased swelling of the limbs.

When breastfeeding

Oyster mushroom is one of the few types of mushrooms that are allowed in small quantities during lactation. Due to the low calorie level, they do not cause bloating and heaviness, passing through breast milk from the mother to the baby. The process of assimilation of such food by an infant does not cause discomfort. Mushrooms purify the blood and remove toxins, have a beneficial effect on sleep, and relieve inflammation.

The only thing you need to pay attention to is the allergic reaction of the child after using them. Oyster mushrooms grown artificially still contain allergens, albeit in a minimal amount. Therefore, they must be included in the diet gradually and with great care. You need to pay attention to how the child’s body reacts to the introduction of a new product in the mother’s menu.

For kids

The opinion of experts in this matter, as in others, diverges. But pediatricians came to the conclusion that artificially grown oyster mushroom can be given to children from 2 years old no more than 2 times a week in small portions.

Nutrient mushrooms with a large number of amino acids and minerals help with the formation of the digestive system and promote the digestibility of other products. But you need to start their inclusion in the baby’s diet with a teaspoon. This will be enough for a small child and will not harm.

When losing weight

In their composition, oyster mushrooms fully replace meat dishes. Thanks to this, they are perfect as a substitute for meat during fasting, as well as dieting. Fat in them is even less than in beef, therefore, to maintain a figure or lose weight, inclusion in the diet is the optimal solution.

There are many variations of oyster mushroom dishes. The main rule when losing weight is not to overcook or digest them. With prolonged cooking, the beneficial properties are reduced. Mushroom dishes during the diet can both replace the main ones, and include them in snacks or combine with buckwheat as a side dish.

Oyster mushroom in medicine

Due to the abundance of beneficial amino acids and micro and macro elements for certain diseases, doctors recommend including mushroom dishes in the diet. In some cases, they are not only able to improve the condition, but also completely relieve the disease that has appeared.

Regular use of oyster mushrooms will strengthen the immune system and help the body resist pathogens. The product contributes to the treatment of hepatitis, helps to normalize both low and high blood pressure.

With diabetes

Scientists from the Bangladesh Institute for the Rehabilitation of Diabetes Patients, having conducted research, came to the conclusion that the constant use of oyster mushrooms in the diet is capable of:

• reduce diastolic pressure;
• reduce blood glucose;
• remove cholesterol;
• normalize body weight.

In the early stages, diabetes can be cured by following a strict diet. And it necessarily includes oyster mushrooms. They not only relieve the symptoms of the disease, but are also able to even out the level of insulin and cholesterol in the blood. At the same time, they can be used both in cooked dishes, and in the form of tinctures.

Important: oyster mushroom glycemic index - 15 units.

With gout

Doctors strongly recommend excluding mushrooms from the diet for gout, especially for artificially grown ones. But the exception is 2 types of mushrooms - oyster mushroom and honey mushroom. The fact is that in mushrooms, as in other protein-containing products, purine is present (chemical compounds that are in the blood of all living organisms are responsible for the formation of DNA). And with gout, it should be excluded, since when the body is not digestible, it turns into uric acid, which destroys tendons and joints. So, in the mentioned species, this element is contained in the least amount. That is why they are allowed to be consumed, but in small portions and stewed.

With gastritis

Oyster mushrooms should not be consumed for any diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The fact is that mushrooms, as a product that is difficult to digest, stimulate the release of gastric juice in excessive quantities, which leads to a deterioration in the presence of a disease.

But juice from fresh mushrooms will be a panacea for gastritis and other diseases of the stomach. Taking a tablespoon of the drug 3-4 times a day before meals, after 10 days you can forget about the pain.

Oyster mushroom recipes

The mushroom is used not only in cooking. Being an excellent antibacterial and antiseptic, it fights against microbes of diseases such as pneumonia and diseases of the cornea of ​​the eye. Its juice can cure E. coli.

The following recipes deserve special attention, since their action has been proved by scientists not only in China, where traditional medicine is preferred, but also in Europe.

1. With hypertension, a tincture of 50 grams of crushed pulp of mushrooms and a glass of vodka will help. Insist in a cool dark place for 10 days, occasionally shaking. Then strain and drink 1 teaspoon before meals.
2. From thrombophlebitis, you need to eat a tablespoon of hats washed in boiling water before eating. To prevent the disease, you must adhere to a two-week course and take a break for 2 months, after which it is repeated again.
3. In the treatment of neurosis and cardiovascular disease, it is necessary to fill a glass of finely chopped oyster mushrooms with a bottle of red dessert wine. After insisting in the refrigerator, strain and drink a tablespoon 3 times a day for a week.
4. With vitamin deficiency, mushroom powder is made to strengthen the immune system. For its preparation, it is necessary to cut mushrooms and squeeze out excess moisture from them with gauze. Then dry them in the oven at low temperature (50 ° C) for two hours. Then allow to cool and grind with a blender or in a coffee grinder to a powder state. Take a teaspoon before each meal in 20 minutes.
5. The use of boiled oyster mushrooms 2 times a day will help get rid of atherosclerosis. Boil mushrooms for no more than 10 minutes. It is this cooking time that helps to activate all the beneficial substances that lower blood cholesterol and cleanse blood vessels.

Harm and contraindications

Since during artificial cultivation all the rules and regulations are observed to obtain a high-quality product free of harmful substances and allergens, their possible harm is minimized. In stores they sell just such oyster mushrooms. Special care should be taken with mushrooms collected in the forest, they should be eaten only with full confidence in quality.

Mushrooms are a very specific product. Despite the enormous benefits for the body, there are diseases in the presence of which the use of oyster mushrooms is strictly prohibited:

1. All pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. The high content of fungal fiber, which is not absorbed by the human body, slows down the digestive system, which entails an increase in the production of gastric juice. Subsequently, this leads to an ulcer.
2. Renal failure. Oyster mushroom retains fluid in the body and slows down the kidneys. The introduction of large quantities into the diet will aggravate an existing problem.
3. Allergy. All types of mushrooms are in 1st place among the products that provoke poisoning. Due to the large number of trace elements in the composition, the likelihood of allergic reactions increases. The probability of rejection by the body of only 1 element is possible, which will lead to a serious problem.

Also at risk are children under 7 years old and the elderly. The thing is that this product is nutritious, but it takes a lot of time to digest it. Therefore, it can cause discomfort, pain in the stomach, diarrhea.

Is it possible to poison oyster mushrooms

Wild varieties of oyster mushrooms can be hazardous to health. The most poisonous are oak and coated. They are similar to edible varieties, but it is strictly forbidden to use them.

The most common mistake after eating mushrooms is the confusion of symptoms of poisoning and indigestion, in which first aid immediately brings relief. Intoxication brings more problems in that harmful toxins, getting into the bloodstream, quickly spread throughout all internal organs. And only after neutralization with potent medicines do the symptoms go away.

The main causes of poisoning include the following:

• in artificial conditions, substrates containing pesticides were used;
• the timing and temperature of growing the product were not met;
• wild mushrooms were collected near a road or industrial zone;
• oyster mushroom was confused with a poisonous representative;
• storage conditions were not maintained;
• unsanitary conditions of production (when using canned oyster mushrooms purchased).

To avoid intoxication, you need to carefully examine the entire surface of the mushroom cap. It is necessary to refuse a purchase or collection in case of detection on it:

• mold
• dark spots;
• mucus;
• suspicious odor.

Symptoms of Poisoning
Not knowing the reaction to mushroom products, it is better to abandon their use on an empty stomach. Dangerous symptoms appear as follows:

• pain in the stomach and intestines;
• Dizziness
• nausea;
• temperature rise;
• chills;
• fever;
• painful diarrhea;
• joint and muscle pains.

In this case, it is necessary to call an ambulance, indicating the cause - it is poisoning with oyster mushrooms. This is due to the fact that certain drugs exist to neutralize different varieties, so emphasizing the appearance of the fungus will enable doctors to provide the right help.

Before the ambulance arrives, you need to rinse your stomach and drink green tea or water with lemon and honey. They will help reduce the effects of toxins and relieve pain in the stomach.

How to choose and store oyster mushrooms

1. When buying mushrooms in a store, you need to give preference to small specimens. Big weight and size is an indicator of age, such mushrooms become stiff and lose their taste. The hat and leg should be uniform gray in color, without dark spots and deposits.
2. The same applies to gathering in nature. There is one more nuance: to distinguish an old mushroom from a young one, you need to break the hat and look at the fault line. If it is juicy and white - you can safely put the mushroom in a basket.
3. Oyster mushrooms should also have only their inherent mushroom smell. If there is any other flavor, they should be discarded.

Storage is permissible in the refrigerator in glass or plastic containers with a tight-fitting lid. Shelf life should not exceed 5 days.

Is it possible to freeze

Freezing berries, vegetables and fruits helps housewives all year round. If there are no questions about this method of storing champignons, then problems with oyster mushrooms begin. And all this is due to ignorance of the rules for preparing mushrooms for freezing.

A thorough inspection of each mushroom is important. If yellow spots begin to appear under the hat, then they need to be postponed and immediately prepared. This process indicates that the product began to deteriorate due to improper storage or moisture. Such oyster mushrooms can not be frozen.

Algorithm of actions:

1. To clear. Gently, without causing mechanical damage, rid the mushrooms of excess dirt. It is important for storage in its entirety.
2. Soaking and washing is not recommended due to the fact that the mushrooms have a porous structure and quickly absorb liquid into themselves, holding it for a long time. When frozen, the liquid will destroy all the beneficial properties of oyster mushrooms, and also spoil the taste by adding bitterness.
3. Arrange the mushrooms (whole or chopped) in clean, odorless plastic containers. It is important that the cover closes tightly. Then the smells of other products and air will not get into the container.

In this form, mushrooms can be used to prepare different dishes at any time of the year.

Is it possible to dry

Oyster mushrooms - the type in which the least amount of moisture. That is why they, although not often used for drying, are better suited for it than other representatives. As such, they are well stored, take up little space and do not lose a single useful quality.

To dry oyster mushrooms, you need to do the following:

1. Peel and chop mushrooms (optional).
2. Wipe with a clean, dry cloth.
3. Having laid out on paper, put in the sun for several hours. If drying at home, it is better to do it over a gas stove or battery, after having strung mushrooms on a thread.
4. Elasticity is the main sign that drying needs to be completed. It is important not to miss this moment, as under-dried specimens can quickly become moldy, and over-dried ones will crumble and are unsuitable for further storage.

How to clean oyster mushrooms

Mushrooms artificially grown in suspension on substrates are distinguished by the fact that they have absolutely no dirt and sand, so there are no special rules for cleaning this species. You just need to rinse oyster mushrooms under running water and clean the hat with a knife from the top layer.

Before use, specimens collected in the forest should be soaked in cold water for 15 minutes. After that, rinse under a small pressure of water, clean from damaged areas.

How to cook oyster mushrooms

There are many recipes based on oyster mushrooms. These mushrooms are cooked in different ways. They can be fried, boiled, stewed, marinated, used in the form of sauces and in pies.

There are 2 quick recipes that will fit not only the ordinary, but the festive table, even during fasting.

Stewed oyster mushrooms

To do this, chop the onion and fry it for 1 minute in oil. Put clean, chopped mushrooms (0.5 kg) and pour 1/3 cup of water. Add spices and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Then add grated cheese and chopped dill. Pour everything with a mixture of a cup of sour cream and yolk. Leave under the lid on low heat for 5 minutes. Then let it brew for another 5 minutes. Serve with a side dish instead of meat.

Oyster mushroom appetizer with cheese

Fry 300 g of mushrooms with onions and seasonings. Add 20 g butter and mashed garlic clove. Fry for no more than 10 minutes over medium heat and add cheese grated on a coarse grater. Close the lid and after 30 seconds, when it melts, serve the dish in waffle tartlets.

How to fry

Oyster mushrooms fried with potatoes
Belongs to the category of everyone’s favorite dishes. To do this, it is necessary to arm with two pans, since the products need different cooking times. To bring the mushrooms to the desired condition and not overcook the potatoes, they should be cooked separately.

Rinsing, peeling and slicing vegetables (for 1 kg of potatoes you will need 500 g of mushrooms), you need to put them on the frying. Add onions to the potatoes and season them with spices. Oyster mushrooms to fry in a hot pan and high heat. Put golden mushrooms on the finished potato and sprinkle with herbs and garlic.

Buckwheat with fried mushrooms
A very easy to prepare dish is suitable for those who monitor their weight and adhere to proper nutrition. Fry mushrooms with onions in a small amount of oil, pepper. Pour boiled buckwheat to oyster mushroom, mix. Instead of salt, you can use soy sauce.

How to pickle

To do this, add boiling water (1 liter) to vinegar (2 tablespoons), salt and sugar (3 teaspoons each), 2 bay leaves, 2 cloves of garlic and a couple of black pepper and cloves. Boil for 2 minutes, then put the mushrooms (350 g), bring to a boil, periodically removing the scale, boil for a minute over high heat, then leave over low heat for 20 minutes. After time, add 1/3 cup vegetable oil. Put on an open plate and let cool.

How to cook soup

For cooking, you will need 350 g of oyster mushroom, 3 medium potatoes and 1 piece of onion, carrot and tomato, dill to taste, spices and vegetable oil (2 tablespoons).

After having been washed, peeled and sliced ​​mushrooms and vegetables, pour 1.5 liters of water and bring to a boil. After that put the mushrooms. After 3-5 minutes add the potatoes and leave for another 10 minutes over low heat. Fry onions, tomatoes and carrots in a pan, season with salt and pepper.Add the frying to the pan and simmer for 10 minutes over low heat. Then turn off the heat and let it brew for 20 minutes.

Oyster mushroom salad

To make a vegetable salad with mushrooms, you need to chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, bell pepper and onion half rings. Pour oyster mushrooms with boiling water and leave for 2 minutes. After that, cut and add to the vegetables. Season with olive oil, add spices to taste.

Oyster mushroom caviar

Peel, cut and lay the mushrooms on a paper towel. Put in a deep saucepan and pour 3 teaspoons of vinegar. Then fry over high heat. This is necessary in order to dry the mushrooms. When the excess moisture has evaporated, add a glass of water and simmer for 30 minutes over low heat. Separately, fry onions, carrots (1 each) and garlic (3 cloves). After that, seasoning the vegetables, mix them and pass through a meat grinder or grind in a blender. Put caviar in sterilized jars and close. Store in a cool dark place.

Is it possible to eat oyster mushrooms raw

Oyster mushroom is one of the few species that can be eaten without prior preparation. For such use, they must be scalded with boiling water or pour cold water for several minutes. After such manipulations, oyster mushrooms can be added to salads, appetizers, side dishes.

Unsuitable for eating only the legs of the mushroom. Therefore, they must first be separated using only hats.

Interesting facts about oyster mushrooms

1. Oyster mushrooms have the same composition as beef, and the presence of micro and macro elements are similar to fruits.
2. Oyster mushrooms were grown on a massive scale in Germany after World War II, when the military needed good, but cheap food during the time of lack of money and devastation.
3. The record number of mushrooms in one group is 478 pieces.
4. Oyster mushroom is the most dietary mushroom of all representatives.
5. This fungus is capable of cleaving radionuclides. The mushroom diet is prescribed to people whose work is related to the nuclear industry.
6. Representatives of Pleurotus are predatory fungi. They feed on worms nematodes.

Photo mushroom oyster mushroom