<i>Pleurotus</i> spp: an ultimate solution to the emerging calamities of the world

Abstract

Pleurotus, a significant contributor, offers a comprehensive solution to malnutrition, food insecurity, health issues, unemployment, and ecological imbalances. Pleurotus species are known for their nutritional, edible, therapeutic, enzymatic, and adaptive capabilities, effectively utilising many agro-industrial wastes. Their production and consumption rates are steadily increasing, providing delicacy and natural immune-boosting services to communities. Moreover, Pleurotus plays a role in the fight against viral infectious diseases, including Covid-19. The strong enzymatic system of Pleurotus species aids in bioremediating harsh pollutants, sustaining ecological balance in ways not achievable by other saprophytic, cultivable edible mushrooms. With its temperature tolerance and ability to grow on various substrates, Pleurotus emerges as the most suitable economic agricultural crop. It can be adopted as a cottage industry, offering self-employment opportunities without requiring substantial capital investment. This review aims to elucidate the nutritional, medicinal, environmental, and economic values of Pleurotus species, highlighting their potential to support life on Earth and the planet itself, as well as their role in promoting environmental sustainability.

Topics & Concepts