Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) is a wood-destroying mushroom, it grows mainly on deciduous trees and is popular mainly for its effects (increasing the body's resistance to viral, bacterial, fungal, etc. diseases) during colds, viruses and flu.

Oyster mushroom contains:

• beta 1,3/1,6 D glucans,
• vitamins B, C, D, K,
• minerals and trace elements (iron, selenium, zinc, potassium, etc.),
• proteins pleurostrin and ostreolysin,
• nucleotides,
• sterols,
• fiber,
• chitosan,
• lovastatin.

Betaglucans (structurally polysaccharides) are used to strengthen immunity by activating its non-specific and specific components. They can also prevent fatigue or stress.

There is a fairly wide range of dietary supplements containing beta-glucans available on the market (in the form of capsules, tablets and syrups). The dosage in this case depends on the purpose of use (prevention x acute problems) and also on the person for whom the treatment is intended (child x adult).

Beta-glucans can also be used long-term (months) and withdrawal should then take place gradually.

These preparations are not suitable for patients with:

• autoimmune disease,
• diseases of cartilage, joints and bones,
• leukemia,
• tuberculosis,
• immunosuppressive treatment.

Free according to the web portal of the Czech Chamber of Pharmacy for the public Lékárnické kapky, 27/10/2023