Spotlight On: Turkey Tail Mushroom

Spotlight on: Turkey Tail Mushroom

Each mushroom has countless good qualities and health benefits worth writing home about! Our fascination with fungi shows no sign of abating as we learn more, and more, about these fabulous fellas! And, as there is so much to be said about each one, we have decided to put some of these superfood superstars under the spotlight, so you can really get to know them. We’ve already tackled Lion’s Mane, Reishi and Shiitake but now it’s time for another mushroom.

Big Fans

Another fungus named after the animal kingdom — like lion’s mane mushroom — and like lion’s mane, the turkey tail mushroom is known to have incredible health benefits. Yes! Today we are looking at that frilly, fan-shaped shroom that appropriately, has many fans itself! The turkey tail has recently stepped into the wider public attention (rather than being a mycology fan’s lil’ secret), and not only because of the current ‘shroom boom’ as awareness of the medicinal benefits of mushrooms grows. It was famously name-checked by mycology master Paul Stamets in the 2019 film Fantastic Fungi, as the key to his 84 year old mother’s recovery from breast cancer.

Spotlight On: Turkey Tail Mushroom

So, let’s get to the nitty gritty technical details of this fungi, before starting on its superfood prowess. The turkey tail’s official scientific name is Trametes versicolor, which means ‘of many colours’. The reason is evident when you look at this bracket mushroom, growing up its tree trunk like little shelves. It comes in a fascinating array of colours that make it look almost like a precious stone, as well as its obvious resemblance to a turkey’s tail of course! It is native to Europe, Asia and North America and has been used in Chinese and Native American medicine for centuries.

However, you can’t (or really wouldn’t enjoy) attempting to eat this mushroom in the normal fashion. Even if you boiled this fungi for hours you’d still be left with a supremely rubbery snack. And, although the flavour is known to be an interesting addition to broths and seasoning blends, most people choose to take turkey tail in supplement or powder form.

But what are the benefits of turkey tail mushroom? Let’s find out!

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It Boosts Your Immune System

The turkey tail mushroom is rich in polysaccharides, particularly Polysaccharide-K (PSK) and Polysaccharide Peptide (PSP), known for their potent immune-boosting properties. These compounds enhance immune strength and response by activating specific immune cells, suppressing others, and reducing inflammation.

PSK plays a key role in regulating the immune response by activating cells that strengthen immunity against toxins. It also stimulates specialized white blood cells essential for protecting the body against bacteria. Similarly, PSP has shown in test-tube studies to activate white blood cells, specifically monocytes, which combat infections and enhance immunity. Due to these remarkable benefits, PSP and PSK are widely used as supportive anticancer treatments alongside chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery in China and Japan. Leading us to...

It Can Help With Cancer Treatment

Research shows that turkey tail mushrooms may possess cancer cell and tumor-inhibiting properties. In a test-tube study, Polysaccharide-K (PSK), a key compound in turkey tail, was found to effectively inhibit the growth and spread of colon cancer cells in humans.

Several studies indicate that when combined with traditional cancer treatments, turkey tail can significantly enhance the chances of recovery. For instance, in a study involving 11 women with breast cancer, participants were given 6 to 9 grams of powdered turkey tail daily after radiation therapy. Results revealed an increase in immune cells that fight cancer, including natural killer cells and lymphocytes, showcasing the potential of turkey tail in supporting cancer recovery.

Full Of Antioxidants

Turkey tail mushroom is chock full of antioxidants! But what actually is an antioxidant? Well! They are compounds that work to stop oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can damage cells, cause chronic inflammation, and produce free radicals. All of which have been linked to the development of cancer and heart disease. So antioxidants: big thumbs up.

Turkey tail contains a smorgasbord of antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenols, along with many different health-boosting compounds. Flavonoid and phenol antioxidants improve immune system health by stimulating protective cells and compounds and reducing inflammation

Improves Gut Health

Turkey tail improves gut health as it contains prebiotics, which encourage healthy bacteria. Healthy gut bacteria supports your immune system and its ability to respond to attack. For example, In an 8-week study of 24 healthy people, it was found that consuming 3,600 mg of PSP extracted from turkey tail mushrooms per day led to beneficial changes in gut bacteria. It even inhibited growth of the E. coli and Shigella bacteria — which can cause illness.

Promising Studies…

Improves Athletic Performance?
A study on mice found that turkey tail mushroom extract showed less fatigue and improved exercise performance. More research here please!

An Antibacterial?
A test tube study found that turkey tail extract reduced the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica. These can cause serious illness.

Treats HPV?
A study of 61 people with HPV found that of the group treated with turkey tail 88% of them had reduced symptoms. some even being cleared. This was compared to 5% of the control group.

Helps Treat Diabetes?
A study on rats with type 2 diabetes found that when administered turkey tail extract, blood sugar levels decreased and insulin resistance increased.