pleurotus tuberregium

*Pleurotus tuberregium*, also known as the King Tuber mushroom, is an edible macro-fungus found in tropical regions, notably West Africa and Southeast Asia. It is unique among Pleurotus species for producing a sclerotium (an underground tuber-like storage organ) which is widely used in traditional medicine, particularly in Nigeria (where it is known as "usu"). Research into its sclerotia and fruiting bodies has revealed a diverse range of bioactive compounds, including beta-glucans, flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin), phenolic acids (caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid), and phytosterols (sitosterol). Pre-clinical animal studies suggest significant therapeutic potential for managing diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia, as well as providing hepatorenal protection against toxins like carbon tetrachloride and paracetamol. Its pharmacologic effects are likely multi-target, involving the modulation of electrolyte levels (sodium and potassium), inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, and activation of endogenous antioxidant pathways.

Other names

King Tuber mushroomKing Tuber medicinal mushroomusuPleurotus tuber-regium