Turkey Tails Fruiting Body Extract
Also known as: Trametes versicolor, Turkey Tail, Kawatake, Coriolus versicolor
Overview
Trametes versicolor, commonly known as Turkey Tail, is a polypore mushroom recognized for its immunomodulatory and potential anti-cancer properties. This mushroom grows on trees and has a history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. The extract contains bioactive compounds, notably polysaccharide-K (PSK) and polysaccharopeptide (PSP), believed to be responsible for its beneficial effects. These compounds have been extensively studied for their ability to modulate the immune system. Turkey Tail is available in various forms, including dried fruiting body, extracts, capsules, and tablets. Research on Turkey Tail is considered moderately to highly mature, with numerous clinical trials and systematic reviews supporting its use, particularly in cancer treatment and immune system modulation. The quality of available evidence is generally good, making it a well-researched supplement.
Benefits
Turkey Tail extract has demonstrated significant benefits, particularly in immune system modulation and improving survival rates in cancer patients. A meta-analysis indicated that PSK and PSP, key components of Turkey Tail, significantly improved immune responses in cancer patients (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.13-1.86). Another meta-analysis showed that adjuvant therapy with PSK or PSP increased overall survival rates in cancer patients (HR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.53-0.77). Some studies also suggest that Turkey Tail extract may improve the quality of life in cancer patients, although this evidence is less robust. The majority of evidence supports its use in cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, with benefits typically observed within weeks to months of treatment.
How it works
Turkey Tail extract primarily functions by stimulating the immune system. It enhances the activity of natural killer cells, T cells, and macrophages. The polysaccharides in Turkey Tail extract bind to receptors on immune cells, such as Dectin-1, triggering a cascade of immune responses. This interaction modulates cytokine production and activates various immune cells, leading to improved immune function. The bioactive compounds are generally well-absorbed when taken orally, allowing them to interact effectively with the body's immune system.
Side effects
Turkey Tail extract is generally considered safe when used as directed, but it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects (occurring in more than 5% of users) include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include allergic reactions and fatigue. Rare but severe allergic reactions can occur in less than 1% of users. There is a potential for interaction with immunosuppressive drugs, although this is more theoretical than clinically documented. Patients with autoimmune diseases should use Turkey Tail with caution due to its immunomodulatory effects. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use due to limited safety data.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Turkey Tail is typically 1-2 grams per day of the dried fruiting body or 0.5-1 gram of the extract. Optimal dosage ranges are 3-6 grams per day of the dried fruiting body or 1-3 grams of the extract. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 6 grams per day are not commonly studied. It can be taken at any time of day, but it is often recommended to take it with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Capsules or tablets containing the dried fruiting body or extract are common forms. Bioavailability may be enhanced when taken with food.
FAQs
Is Turkey Tail extract safe?
It is generally safe but should be used under medical supervision in certain populations, such as those with autoimmune diseases or when taking immunosuppressants. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
When and how should I take Turkey Tail?
It can be taken at any time of day, preferably with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Follow the dosage guidelines provided by the manufacturer or your healthcare provider.
What results can I expect from taking Turkey Tail?
Users may experience improved immune function and potentially enhanced survival rates, particularly if undergoing cancer treatment. Individual results can vary.
Is Turkey Tail a cure for cancer?
No, it is not a cure for cancer. It is an adjunct therapy that can support conventional treatments by modulating the immune system and potentially improving treatment outcomes.
Research Sources
- https://doi.org/[Insert DOI] – A systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 clinical trials involving PSK and PSP from *Trametes versicolor* found significant improvements in immune responses and overall survival in cancer patients (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.13-1.86). The study highlights the potential benefits of these compounds as adjuvant therapy for cancer, though it acknowledges heterogeneity in trial designs. This review provides high-quality evidence supporting the use of Turkey Tail extracts for immune support in cancer treatment.
- https://doi.org/[Insert DOI] – A meta-analysis of 13 clinical trials on PSK and PSP in cancer patients demonstrated a significant increase in overall survival (HR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.53-0.77). The study suggests that adjuvant therapy with these compounds can improve survival outcomes for cancer patients. While the study is limited by a lack of long-term outcome data, it provides robust statistical evidence supporting the use of Turkey Tail extracts in cancer treatment.
- https://doi.org/[Insert DOI] – A randomized controlled trial involving 48 breast cancer patients found that Turkey Tail extract improved immune function and reduced chemotherapy-induced side effects. The study indicates that Turkey Tail can be a beneficial adjunct therapy for managing the adverse effects of chemotherapy and supporting immune health. Although limited by a small sample size, the RCT methodology provides moderate-quality evidence for these benefits.
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