Pleurotus eryngii, commonly known as king oyster mushroom, has garnered scientific interest for its potential antimicrobial properties. Several in vitro studies have demonstrated that extracts from Pleurotus eryngii exhibit inhibitory effects against a range of bacterial pathogens, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These effects are primarily attributed to bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, phenolic compounds, and certain secondary metabolites present in the mushroom. However, most of the supporting evidence is limited to laboratory (in vitro) studies, with only a handful of preliminary animal studies suggesting possible antimicrobial benefits in vivo.

Despite these promising findings, there is currently no robust clinical evidence supporting the use of Pleurotus eryngii as a direct alternative or adjunct to conventional antibiotics in humans. It is also not part of traditional medicine systems specifically for infection control, though it is valued for its nutritional and general health benefits. Therefore, while the scientific rationale exists at the experimental level, the evidence base is still weak for clinical application, and it cannot be recommended as a substitute for antibiotics based on current knowledge.