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Turkey Tails

Also known as: Turkey Tail, Coriolus versicolor, Polyporus versicolor, Polystictus versicolor, Kawaratake, Yun Zhi, Cloud Mushroom, Unji Mushroom, Trametes versicolor

Overview

Trametes versicolor, commonly known as Turkey Tail mushroom, is a polypore fungus recognized for its distinctive multicolored bands and velvety texture. It thrives on dead logs and stumps and has been traditionally used in various cultures for its medicinal properties. The mushroom is rich in bioactive compounds, including polysaccharide K (PSK), polysaccharopeptides (PSP), and Coriolus versicolor glucan (CVG), which are believed to contribute to its health benefits. Turkey Tail is primarily used to support the immune system, enhance cancer treatment effectiveness, and promote general wellness. Research on Turkey Tail is ongoing, with studies ranging from small clinical trials to meta-analyses, providing modest to preliminary evidence for its claimed benefits. It is available in various forms, including extracts, capsules, and teas.

Benefits

Turkey Tail mushroom offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in the areas of cancer treatment support and immune system enhancement. Modest evidence suggests that adding Turkey Tail or PSK to conventional cancer treatments may improve survival rates in patients with colorectal, stomach, and possibly breast cancer. For example, a meta-analysis indicated better survival among people with colorectal cancer treated with PSK added to chemotherapy. Additionally, Turkey Tail contains PSPs and other compounds that may strengthen the immune system. Studies have shown increased populations of beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. Preliminary evidence also suggests that Turkey Tail may help in recovering from low blood cell counts and improving appetite in cancer patients undergoing treatment. Test-tube studies have indicated antibacterial and antiviral properties, including inhibiting the growth of bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica, and potentially clearing HPV infections in women. The most robust evidence is for patients with colorectal, stomach, and breast cancers, where Turkey Tail or PSK may enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and improve survival rates. A study found that a Turkey Tail-based vaginal gel improved clearance of HPV and normalized pap smears in a significant proportion of women.

How it works

Turkey Tail's bioactive compounds, such as PSK and PSP, are believed to enhance immune response by stimulating the production of immune cells and cytokines. These compounds also exhibit direct antitumor effects by inhibiting cancer cell growth and metastasis. The compounds interact with the immune system, gut microbiome, and potentially directly with cancer cells. They may also support the health of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn enhances immune function. The polysaccharides and polysaccharopeptides in Turkey Tail are thought to bind to receptors on immune cells, activating an immune response. While the bioavailability of Turkey Tail compounds is not fully understood, extracts have shown effectiveness in clinical settings, suggesting some level of absorption.

Side effects

Turkey Tail is generally considered safe, with few reported side effects. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include digestive symptoms such as gas, bloating, and dark stools. When used alongside chemotherapy, side effects like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite may occur, though it is unclear if these are solely due to the mushroom or the chemotherapy. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, include darkening of the fingernails. Rare side effects are not well-documented in the literature. There is limited evidence on drug interactions, but it is advised to consult a doctor before using Turkey Tail, especially in conjunction with other treatments. No specific contraindications are well-documented, but caution is advised for individuals with compromised immune systems or those undergoing surgery. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using Turkey Tail supplements due to the lack of specific studies in these populations.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Turkey Tail is not well-established, but clinical studies have used various dosages of PSK and PSP, often in the range of 1-3 grams per day. Optimal dosages typically range between 1-3 grams of extract per day. For example, a study used 45.5 and 90.9 mg/kg body weight of CVG extracted from Turkey Tail mushrooms daily. There is no established maximum safe dose, but high doses have not been associated with significant adverse effects in clinical studies. It is often recommended to take the supplement consistently over several months to years to observe benefits. Extracts and capsules are commonly used forms, though the efficacy of homebrewed tea is less clear. The absorption of bioactive compounds may be enhanced when taken with food or other nutrients that support gut health. No specific cofactors are required, but a balanced diet and healthy gut microbiome may enhance the benefits of Turkey Tail supplementation.

FAQs

Is Turkey Tail safe to use?

Turkey Tail is generally safe, but consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially if undergoing other treatments.

How should I take Turkey Tail and when?

Consistent daily dosing over several months is typical for observing benefits. Follow the dosage instructions on the product label or as advised by a healthcare professional.

What results can I expect from taking Turkey Tail?

Potential benefits include improved immune function, enhancement of cancer treatment outcomes, and better recovery from chemotherapy side effects. Individual results may vary.

Can Turkey Tail replace conventional medical treatment?

No, Turkey Tail is not a replacement for conventional medical treatment but rather a complementary therapy. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations.

Research Sources

https://cancerchoices.org/therapy/turkey-tail-mushroom/evidence-regarding-turkey-tail-mushroom-and-cancer/ – This resource provides an overview of the evidence regarding Turkey Tail mushroom and its effects on cancer. It discusses various studies and their findings, highlighting the potential benefits of Turkey Tail as a complementary therapy for cancer patients.
https://www.pei-untamed.com/post/turkey-tails – This article discusses the properties and uses of Turkey Tail mushrooms. It highlights the mushroom's immune-boosting and antioxidant properties, as well as its potential benefits for gut health.
https://guides.library.harvard.edu/meta-analysis/databases – This guide from Harvard Library provides information on meta-analysis and databases relevant to systematic reviews. It is a resource for understanding the methodology and sources used in meta-analyses.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/turkey-tail-mushroom – This Healthline article provides a general overview of Turkey Tail mushrooms, including their nutritional content and potential health benefits. It discusses the mushroom's immune-boosting and anticancer properties, as well as its potential side effects.
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD012053.pub2/appendices – This Cochrane Library resource provides appendices related to a systematic review of interventions for cutaneous warts. While not directly about Turkey Tail, it offers insights into the methodology and evidence assessment used in systematic reviews.