Pleurotus eryngii
The Ergothioneine Champion
#1 source
Ergothioneine
4.6 mg/g
EGT Content
Fastest segment
Market Growth
Mediterranean
Origin
King Trumpet (also known as King Oyster or Eryngii) is the largest species in the Oyster Mushroom genus and holds the distinction of being the single richest dietary source of ergothioneine ever measured — the proposed 'longevity vitamin' with its own dedicated human transporter protein. Its thick, meaty stem and mild flavor have made it a culinary favorite in East Asian cuisine, while its exceptional antioxidant profile has drawn increasing attention from longevity researchers.
Native to the Mediterranean, Middle East, and North Africa, King Trumpet has been consumed since antiquity in regions around the Mediterranean basin. It grows wild on the roots of Eryngium (sea holly) plants. Commercial cultivation began in Italy in the early 20th century and expanded rapidly into Japan, Korea, and China, where it became known as 'Eringi.' It is now one of the fastest-growing segments of the global mushroom market, valued for both culinary and nutraceutical applications.
Highest known dietary source of ergothioneine
Exceptional antioxidant capacity for cellular protection
Supports cardiovascular health through lovastatin content
Rich source of beta-glucans for immune support
High-quality protein with umami-rich flavor profile
Supports gut health through prebiotic fiber content
Bioactive Compound Profile
Present at the highest concentration of any known food. The 'longevity vitamin' that accumulates in tissues under oxidative stress via its dedicated OCTN1 transporter.
Naturally occurring cholesterol metabolism modulator. King Trumpet contains significant levels alongside its Oyster Mushroom relatives.
Immune-modulating polysaccharides with demonstrated macrophage and NK cell activation.
Including gallic acid and catechins that contribute to antioxidant capacity.
UV-convertible vitamin D2 precursor. King Trumpet responds exceptionally well to UV treatment for vitamin D fortification.
Research on King Trumpet has accelerated since the discovery that it contains the highest ergothioneine levels of any food (up to 4.6 mg/g dry weight). A 2017 study in Food Chemistry confirmed King Trumpet's ergothioneine supremacy across 33 mushroom species tested. Additional research has explored its antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays consistently rank it among the top mushroom species), its lovastatin content for cholesterol metabolism support, and its beta-glucan profile for immune modulation. A 2020 study in the Journal of Food Science demonstrated that King Trumpet polysaccharides exhibited significant prebiotic activity, promoting Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium growth.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.