Trametes Versicolor

Turkey Tail

The Most Studied Mushroom

The Turkey Tail mushrooms is well known. It is a small, colorful, flexible polypore fungus that is an important part of the forest ecology as a recycler of dead and dying trees in forests throughout the world. Of all the mushrooms used today for their medicinal qualities, more research has been performed on this species than any other. One particular compound found naturally in Turkey Tail is polysaccharide Krestin (PSK) this compound has been studied in human clinical trials and is an approved drug paid for by the national health care in Japan. PSK is given orally (3 grams/day) to cancer patient, in conjunction with several chemotherapy protocols.

Numerous studies show enhancement of immune functions, antiviral effects, and cholesterol regulating effects, among others. New clinical trials demonstrate improved quality of life after surgery and in combination with chemotherapy, as well as extended 5- and 10-year survival rates, especially for patients with colorectal and stomach cancers.

In all of the studies, no side effects or drug interactions were reported. More research is needed to maximize the potential of this mushroom.

Immunity and Anti-Tumor

Turkey tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor) have been extensively studied for their medicinal properties, supported by scientific literature. Here's a summary of their medicinal benefits based on research:

  1. Immunomodulatory Effects: Turkey tail mushrooms contain polysaccharopeptides (PSP) and polysaccharides (PSK) which have demonstrated immunomodulatory effects in various studies. These compounds stimulate the immune system, enhancing the activity of certain immune cells like T-cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages, thus improving the body's ability to fight infections and diseases.

  2. Anti-Cancer Properties: Several studies have shown that turkey tail mushrooms possess anti-cancer properties. The polysaccharide compounds PSP and PSK have been investigated for their potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and metastasis, as well as to enhance the effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Turkey tail extract has been studied in various cancers including breast, colorectal, gastric, and lung cancer.

  3. Antioxidant Activity: Turkey tail mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, particularly phenols and flavonoids, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. This antioxidant activity contributes to their potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation and protecting cells from oxidative stress.

  4. Antimicrobial Effects: Extracts from turkey tail mushrooms have demonstrated antimicrobial activity against various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Compounds like polysaccharides and phenolic compounds are believed to be responsible for these antimicrobial properties, making turkey tail mushrooms a potential natural remedy for infectious diseases.

  5. Anti-inflammatory Effects: The polysaccharides and other bioactive compounds in turkey tail mushrooms exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. They can help reduce inflammation by modulating cytokine levels and inhibiting inflammatory pathways, which may benefit individuals with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and other autoimmune disorders.

  6. Gut Health: Turkey tail mushrooms contain prebiotic fibers that support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy gut microbiome. This may have implications for overall digestive health and immune function.

  7. Other Potential Benefits: Studies suggest that turkey tail mushrooms may also have benefits for liver health, cardiovascular health, and bone health, although more research is needed to fully understand these effects.

Overall, turkey tail mushrooms possess a range of medicinal benefits supported by scientific research, particularly in the areas of immune modulation, cancer treatment support, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, antimicrobial activity, and potential gut health benefits. However, further clinical trials are necessary to validate and better understand these therapeutic properties.

Where Can You Find Turkey Tail?

Turkey Tail can be found in most forest environments, and while there are no deadly look-alikes, there are some similar species that do not have the same medicinal benefits. For this reason it is important to correctly identify Turkey Tail when foraging.

Powdered version and tinctures of this fungus can easily be found online, or in any health food store. If you manage to get fresh turkey tail, it is usually best to make a tea. Home cultivation is possible, but better left to professional growers.