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Turkey Tail Mushrooms vs. Cancer and Other Diseases

Turkey tail mushrooms have long been studied for their effects on the immune system.

Its scientific name is Trametes versicolor. And although sought after for its medicinal properties, it’s not usually cooked and eaten.

Instead, it’s prepared in powdered extracts and taken as a health supplement.

Where Do Turkey Tail Mushrooms Come From?

Turkey tail is very common in North America but it can grow in many parts of the world.

They’re usually found on organic bases such as the trunks of trees. They have beautiful, intricate colors from dark brown to blackish and green.

As I’m sure you’ve surmised, they get their name from their similarities to a literal turkey’s tail. I’ve added a picture of both so you can compare the two yourself.

What Is It Most Used For?

Traditional Chinese medicine considered the turkey tail mushroom to be a powerful immunomodulator (immune system “balancer”). It's sometimes used in combination with other treatments for chronic diseases like cancer.

It's also said to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral and anticancer properties.

Turkey Tail Benefits for the Immune System

The turkey tail mushroom has a long history used as a holistic remedy. It’s said to stimulate the immune system, protecting against infection and disease.

Today, it’s among the most investigated medicinal mushrooms.. especially for its potential in cancer research. Though never a standalone treatment, research says it's promising for creating future therapies.

In a recent study from the International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, Trametes versicolor was found to have bioactive compounds essential for controlling immune response.

This includes phenolic compounds, free amino acids, vitamins and fatty acids. These help to protect against the action of free radicals, which are associated with aging and diseases.

Petri-dish studies of turkey tail's peptides showed that they increased the presence of monocytes. Monocytes are a type of white blood cell necessary to fight infections. They also helped activate macrophages; another kind of white blood cell that protects against toxins and bacteria.

Turkey Tail Mushroom Research and Cancer

Turkey tail’s anti-tumor potential is one of the most studied. The research has a lot to go, but the effects appear related to its immune system benefits.

One study found its peptide, krestin, to help inhibit the growth and spread of colon cancer cells in humans.

Another chemical, Coriolus versicolor glucan, was shown to reduce the size of a tumor in mice studies.

Meta-analysis concluded that supplementation with turkey tail mushrooms provides survival benefits to cancer patients. In particular, breast, colorectal and gastric carcinoma. They also stated that it’s most effective when combined with other treatments.

Turkey Tail and the Tail Trail (Gut)

Balancing the intestinal microbiome has a big impact on immune response. That’s because bacteria in the intestine interact with immune cells. It’s vital to determining the presence of pathogens or toxins.

PSP, a prebiotic extracted from turkey tail mushrooms, has been studied to both balance gut bacteria and stop the growth of bad bacteria such as E. coli and Shigella.

They concluded turkey tail also increased good bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus.

Are There More Benefits?

Research is still ongoing for other benefits. But turkey tail mushroom powder/extract could become a therapeutic option against:

Inflammation
Bacteria growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

How Do People Take Turkey Tail Mushrooms?

Today, turkey tail mushroom extracts are available in powder, capsules or pills. It’s not considered edible on its own like other medicinal mushrooms we’ve discussed, as it’s too tough.

The suggested dose is usually 3 grams a day for periods of 1 month to 3 years. But long dosages should be reviewed by a professional.

Three grams of powder is about 6 capsules on average. So it’s easiest to take turkey tail mushroom powder using Blate Papes.

These cone or square-shaped films of potato starch get filled, dipped in water, and swallowed. But unlike capsules, they form to your throat and glide down smoothe.

Blate Papes Squares

How Do People Take Turkey Tail Mushrooms?

Other Considerations with Turkey Tail

As turkey tail mushroom has been used in Chinese medicine since ancient times, it’s considered safe to consume.

Some people say that it can cause digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating and dark stools. Others that take turkey tail with treatments such as chemotherapy report nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. But it's uncertain whether these are from the mushroom or conventional cancer treatments.

Either way, it's important to remember that turkey tail isn’t a cure for anything. No matter the studied benefits, it’s best to speak with a professional before starting supplements like these.