Influence of extraction technologies on the therapeutic properties of Pleurotus spp. (oyster mushrooms) – A critical review

Mushrooms possess therapeutic attributes such as anti-cancer, immunomodulation, antioxidant, hypolipidaemic, antiviral, antibacterial, hepatoprotection, and antidiabetic effects. In the family Pleurotaceae, Pleurotus spp. is the second most important commercial mushroom. The most widely cultivated Pleurotus spp. is Pleurotus ostreatus, followed by Pleurotus pulmonarius. Several bioactive compounds of Pleurotus spp., such as carbohydrates, glycoproteins, lipids, or secondary metabolites, could be attributed to its health properties. However, in most studies focusing on the therapeutic effects of Pleurotus spp., traditional extraction methods were used to obtain its extracts. Most conventional extraction methods, such as maceration, hot water extraction, and Soxhlet extraction, can be time-consuming and require a larger volume of solvents. Alternative extraction methods often have shorter extraction times, decreased solvent volume, and sometimes allow for the extraction of thermolabile constituents. This review discusses the bioactive compounds of Pleurotus mushrooms, highlights important considerations for extraction processes, explores both conventional and alternative extraction techniques to obtain bioactive compounds from Pleurotus spp., discusses their advantages and limitations, as well as evaluates their impact on extract bioactivities and therapeutic properties.