Anti-allergic Effect of Pleuran (β-glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus) in Children with Recurrent Respiratory Tract Infections

Authors:
Milos Jesenak, Martin Hrubisko, Juraj Majtan, Zuzana Rennerova, Peter Banovcin

Journal:
Phytotherapy Research, 2014
DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5020

Study Design

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Participants

175 children aged 2–10 years with recurrent respiratory tract infections (RRTIs), defined as >5 infections/year (ages 2–5) or >3/year (ages 6–10). Atopic status was evaluated based on IgE levels and specific allergen sensitization. Atopy was present in 43.4% of participants.

Intervention

Children received either Imunoglukan P4HW syrup (n = 81) or placebo syrup with vitamin C (n = 94) for 6 months. The active syrup contained 10 mg of pleuran (a β-glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus) and 10 mg of vitamin C per 1 mL. Dosing was 1 mL per 5 kg of body weight taken daily on an empty stomach. Follow-up continued for an additional 6 months post-treatment.

Outcome Measures

• Total serum IgE
• Blood eosinophil count (BEC)
• Specific IgE antibodies to inhalant and food allergens
• Atopic classification
• Adverse events and tolerance

Summary

This trial evaluated the anti-allergic potential of pleuran, a β-glucan extracted from Pleurotus ostreatus, in children with recurrent respiratory tract infections. The active treatment group showed stabilization of total serum IgE levels and a significant reduction in blood eosinophil counts, particularly in atopic children. In contrast, the placebo group exhibited rising IgE levels over time. No significant adverse effects were observed. These findings suggest that pleuran may modulate allergic inflammation and could serve as a complementary therapy for allergic children with frequent respiratory infections.