The Turkey Tail mushroom is also known by its scientific name – Trametes Versicolor, which means multi-colored and is also called ‘Turkey tail’ due to the mushroom’s unique appearance, which resembles a rooster’s tail. The Turkey Tail mushroom is widely known for its powerful polysaccharide components that are effective in strengthening the immune system.

Trametes variegocolor is considered a colorful mushroom with many varieties in shades such as black, gray and white. It grows in forested areas on rotten or living tree trunks and logs. In China and Japan, it was used to drink tea, that is, it was dried and ground. The health benefits observed with its consumption led scientists to study the mushroom and as a result, discovered a wide range of health benefits. We should only note that the mushroom is considered very ancient and has been used medicinally throughout history, thanks to the powerful polysaccharides it contains such as beta-lactones and other nutrients found in it, which are the most researched in the field of medicinal mushrooms.

The amazing benefits of the Turkey Tail mushroom

Contains a wide range of antioxidants

The mushroom is full of antioxidant compounds that help inhibit or reduce damage caused by oxidative stress that causes inflammation and health problems. It should be noted that an imbalance between antioxidants and unstable molecules can cause cellular damage and chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of developing diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as those found in Turkey Tail mushrooms, is very effective in reducing the risk of various diseases. One study examined over 35 different phenolic compounds in a sample of Turkey Tail mushroom extract, along with the antioxidants and flavonoids that the mushroom contains, and found that they promote immune system health by reducing inflammation and creating protection for the body.

Strengthening the immune system

Turkey Tail mushroom contains quercetin (PSK) and polysaccharide peptide (PSP), which are two types of polysaccharopeptides found in it. These components have powerful immune-boosting properties, promoting an immune response by activating and inhibiting specific types of immune cells.

Studies have shown that PSP increases monocytes, which are a type of white blood cell that fights infection and strengthens the immune system. PSK also stimulates dendritic cells, which promote immunity to toxins and regulate the immune response. They also activate specialized white blood cells called macrophages, which protect the body from bacteria.

Improving immune function in cancer patients

PSP and PSK Studies show that these substances have the ability to naturally strengthen the immune system, and are used as anti-cancer drugs in combination with surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation in countries such as Japan and China. Studies have shown that the Turkey Tail mushroom has anti-tumor properties, related to its immune-boosting effects. In addition, another study identified the inhibition of the growth and spread of colon cancer cells.

Improving bowel function

Maintaining a healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut is critical to building a strong immune system. The bacteria found in the gut interact with immune system cells and directly influence the immune response. The Turkey Tail mushroom contains a component that helps nourish these good bacteria.

A study conducted among 24 healthy people and conducted for about 8 weeks revealed that consuming 3,600 mg of PSP per day, extracted from the Turkey Tail mushroom, led to beneficial changes in intestinal bacteria and reduced the development of harmful bacteria.

***Mycospring does not replace medical advice and does not treat medical problems. People with illnesses, pregnant/breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use.