Turkey Tail Mycelia Extract
Also known as: Coriolus versicolor, Turkey Tail mushroom, Kawaratake, Trametes versicolor
Overview
Trametes versicolor, commonly known as Turkey Tail mushroom, is a medicinal mushroom extract derived from its mycelium. It is rich in polysaccharopeptides, notably Polysaccharide-K (PSK) and Polysaccharide peptide (PSP), along with beta-glucans, which are key bioactive components. This extract is primarily recognized for its immunomodulatory and prebiotic properties. Research indicates its use as an adjunctive therapy in cancer treatment, particularly gastric cancer, where it has shown benefits in improving overall survival and reducing metastasis. Beyond oncology, it is also studied for its potential in general immune support, gut microbiome modulation, and emerging benefits in metabolic and bone health. The evidence base is strong for its role in cancer adjunct therapy, moderate for immune and microbiome effects, and emerging for metabolic and bone health.
Benefits
Turkey Tail Mycelia Extract offers several evidence-based benefits. As an adjunct cancer therapy, PSK significantly improves overall survival in gastric cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy post-gastrectomy, reducing the risk of death and lymph node metastasis, as shown in studies involving hundreds to thousands of patients. Its immunomodulatory effects include activating lymphocytes and monocytes and modulating cytokine profiles (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ). The polysaccharides act as prebiotics, supporting gut health by increasing beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus while decreasing harmful species, which can reduce gut inflammation. Preclinical studies suggest potential benefits for bone health by stimulating osteoblast growth and inhibiting osteoclast formation, potentially improving bone density and reducing osteoporosis risk. Animal models also indicate anti-hyperglycemic and anti-insulin resistance effects, suggesting possible benefits in managing type 2 diabetes.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Turkey Tail Mycelia Extract involves its polysaccharopeptides, PSK and PSP, which are rich in beta-glucans. These compounds modulate both innate and adaptive immunity by activating various immune cells, including T cells, NK cells, and macrophages. This activation leads to enhanced cytokine production and improved antigen presentation. In the context of cancer, these mechanisms help restore antitumor immune surveillance and may prevent lymph node metastasis. Additionally, the beta-glucans present in the extract act as prebiotics in the gut, fostering the growth of beneficial microbiota. This modulation of the gut microbiome contributes to systemic immune regulation and can help reduce inflammation. Both water-soluble and insoluble components of the mycelial extract contribute to its overall immune-activating properties.
Side effects
Turkey Tail Mycelia Extract is generally well-tolerated, with a good safety profile observed in clinical studies. Rare and mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating or nausea, are the most commonly reported adverse effects. No significant drug interactions have been consistently reported in high-quality studies. However, caution is advised when combining Turkey Tail with immunosuppressants or chemotherapy, and consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended. Due to its immune-stimulating properties, individuals with autoimmune diseases should use it cautiously. There is insufficient data regarding its safety in special populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, and therefore, its use in these groups is not recommended without medical supervision.
Dosage
In cancer trials, the typical dosage for PSK, a key component of Turkey Tail, is around 3 grams per day, administered orally in divided doses, as an adjunctive therapy. For general immune support or other potential benefits, specific optimal dosing for Turkey Tail mycelial extracts is not firmly established, as most clinical research has focused on cancer populations. It is recommended to use standardized extracts with quantified PSK/PSP content to ensure consistent potency. The timing of administration generally aligns with chemotherapy regimens or as directed by a healthcare professional. Upper limits and safety thresholds for long-term use outside of oncology settings are not well-defined, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance.
FAQs
Is Turkey Tail safe during chemotherapy?
Yes, clinical trials indicate that Turkey Tail is generally safe and may improve outcomes when used as an adjunct to chemotherapy. However, always consult your oncologist before starting any new supplement.
How long does it take to see benefits from Turkey Tail?
Cancer survival benefits are typically observed over months to years. Immune and gut microbiome effects may become apparent within a few weeks of consistent use.
Does Turkey Tail cure cancer?
No, Turkey Tail is not a standalone cancer cure. It is used as an adjunctive therapy to complement conventional cancer treatments, not replace them.
Can Turkey Tail improve gut health?
Yes, evidence supports the prebiotic effects of Turkey Tail, which can help improve the composition and balance of the gut microbiome, contributing to better gut health.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10183216/ – This source, likely a compilation of studies including Ito et al. and Wang et al., highlights that PSK from Turkey Tail significantly improves overall survival in gastric cancer patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy post-gastrectomy. It also notes a reduction in the risk of death and lymph node metastasis, particularly in patients with multiple lymph node metastases. The findings are based on both controlled trials and retrospective cohort studies with large sample sizes.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6889544/ – This preclinical study demonstrates that mycelial extracts of Turkey Tail activate immune cells, specifically inducing activation markers (CD69) on lymphocytes and monocytes. It also shows modulation of cytokine profiles, increasing both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ). This research provides mechanistic insight into the immunomodulatory effects of Turkey Tail.
- https://www.alzdiscovery.org/uploads/cognitive_vitality_media/Turkey_Tail_Mushrooms.pdf – This systematic review, which included 28 studies (17 preclinical, 6 RCTs), indicates that PSP reduces bone loss, modulates immune response, and reduces pain in animal models. While it supports preclinical and some clinical evidence, it notes the heterogeneity of studies and limited human data for some outcomes, particularly regarding bone health.
- https://www.realmushrooms.com/turkey-tail-mushroom-benefits/ – This meta-analysis summary, likely referencing multiple RCTs on cancer adjunct therapy, suggests that PSP modulates the gut microbiome and immune system, with potential benefits for weight management. It acknowledges the need for more human trials to solidify the evidence for weight and microbiome effects, indicating moderate quality evidence in these areas.
