This easily identified mushroom also happens to be the most heavily studied mushroom by modern science. The results are the first mushroom-derived cancer drug used today—approved by the Japanese government.
The turkey tail mushroom is a type of fungus that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Turkey Tail grows in woodlands all over the world and derives its name from its appearance, which, surprise, resembles the flared tail of a turkey. It has many health benefits, including boosting the immune system and helping to maintain a proper digestive system. The active components in turkey tail mushrooms include polysaccharides K & P, ergosterol, and vitamin D. Turkey tail is also rich in fiber, which is a key component to maintaining all aspects of the digestive system's health. As a stack, all these components work together to provide a wide range of health benefits.
This mushroom is best known for its immunity-supporting properties. Turkey Tail has been referred to as a sort of boot camp for the immune system. In some cancer patients (breast, gastric and colorectal specifically), it’s been used in conjunction with standard chemotherapies to significantly improve survival rates.
The turkey tail, like most medicinal mushrooms, is a great source of antioxidants, which can help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases such as cancer. It also contains beta-glucans, which are known to stimulate the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. White blood cells are the body's main defense against infection and disease. Additionally, turkey tail mushrooms are a good source of zinc and vitamin D, both of which are important for immune health.
Studies have shown that turkey tail mushrooms can help improve the function of the immune system in people with cancer or HIV/AIDS. They may also help reduce the side effects of cancer treatments and are sometimes included in many cancer treatment protocols for this reason. Additionally, turkey tail mushrooms may help prevent or delay the onset of some diseases related to aging, such as cancer and heart disease.
The vital importance of gut health and the microbiome, in general, has been evident to the medical community for some time. The PSP (polysaccharides P) in Turkey Tail is a powerful prebiotic for the gut microbiome and, along with the other polysaccharides it contains, increases the growth of good bacteria in the gut. This maintains balance and diversity of the microorganisms within the microbiome which are hallmarks of a healthy gut.
Turkey tail mushrooms are also a good source of fiber, which is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps to regulate bowel movements, maintain the health of the digestive tract, and prevent constipation. Turkey tail mushrooms also contain prebiotics, which are food for probiotics. Probiotics are live bacteria that are found in the gut as part of your gut microbiome. They help to keep the gut healthy and prevent a slew of digestive problems.
Sufficient levels of vitamin D are a key component of anti-aging. Turkey Tail contains ample amounts of Vitamin D, which it produces from its ergosterol in the presence of UV light—just like humans. To fight inflammation and oxidative stress, Turkey Tail also contains vast amounts of antioxidants. Its antioxidant load contains up to 35 unique phenols and flavonoids including quercetin and baicalein. These phenols have protective effects against certain cancers, heart disease, GI issues, and some neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Turkey tail is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different recipes. It can be cooked, dried, or taken as a supplement. As with all functional mushrooms, dual extraction is best to ensure all its active components are delivered. A typical dose of Turkey Tail is between 500 and 1,500 milligrams per day. It may need to be as high as six grams for cancer patients.
Turkey tail mushrooms can be found in most health food stores and may be consumed in several different forms. If the focus is to improve immunity, use any Turkey Tail extract form in a blend of other mushroom extracts to support the immune system when vulnerable--such as in winter or flu season. To mainly improve digestion, it may be added to coffee, black tea, or chai for an effective prebiotic beverage. Lastly, to support overall longevity goals, the powdered form may be added to morning smoothies or breakfast bowls.
