Turkey tail mushroom (Coriolus versicolor) has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal benefits for immune and gut health. In Chinese medicine, turkey tail mushrooms have also been used to detoxify the body and help protect against human papillomavirus (HPV) infections.
Turkey tail mushrooms can be used as a cancer treatment alongside chemotherapy or radiation, due to their high amounts of polysaccharide-K (PSK).
PSK strengthens the immune system in only certain types of cancers, primarily gastric, lung, breast, and colorectal cancer.
It works by stimulating the immune system to prevent tumor growth and cancer from spreading to the lymph nodes. It may also improve T-cell counts.
Turkey tail mushrooms also contain polysaccharide peptide (PSP), two polysaccharides that can strengthen your immune system. They stop harmful bacteria from growing by activating the body’s immune defenses.
They also contain prebiotic fiber that promotes beneficial bacteria growth in the gut, where 70-80% of immune cells live.
Turkey tail mushroom extract can promote the growth of healthy bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. It also helps decrease harmful bacteria like Clostridium and Staphylococcus, which lead to infections.
They also contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber that supports gut health and helps lower cholesterol levels.
Turkey tail mushroom extract can protect against HPV, a sexually transmitted virus that is responsible for 99.7% of cervical cancer cases. It may also help treat it if you already have it.
Medicinal mushrooms like these may also improve the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine.
Turkey tail mushrooms are used more for their medicinal properties than their nutritional value. Still, mushrooms are generally a good source of fiber, protein, micronutrients, and antioxidants.
They are especially rich in niacin and other B vitamins, which help convert food to energy and produce enzymes that support cell function.
Phenolic compounds in turkey tail mushrooms can reduce inflammation and may help prevent hypertension (high blood pressure), type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and cardiovascular disease.
There are about 11 grams of protein and 1 gram of fat in 100 grams of dried turkey tail mushrooms.
You are more likely to see turkey tail mushrooms available as a supplement than as a whole food. These supplements typically come in capsule, liquid, or powder form.
Medicinal mushrooms like turkey tail mushroom are usually available in doses of 800-3,000 milligrams of the active polysaccharide per day.
Turkey tail mushrooms are generally safe to consume orally. If you are allergic to certain fungi, you should avoid consuming turkey tail mushrooms entirely.
There is not enough research to determine if it is safe to use it topically or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Medicinal mushrooms may also negatively interact with several medications, including those that treat cancer. Talk to a healthcare provider before starting turkey tail mushrooms if you take any medications.
Ask a healthcare provider about taking turkey tail mushrooms if you take other herbs or supplements that can lower your blood sugar, such as cinnamon, bitter melon, ginseng, and berberine supplements.
Foraging
If you are considering picking natural mushrooms yourself, be cautious of mushroom poisoning. Mild cases can cause gastrointestinal upset. Severe cases can lead to liver failure or kidney failure, seizures, and other serious effects.
Some soil around turkey tail mushrooms in the wild may be contaminated.
Turkey tail mushrooms are known for the bands of color on their caps, with the lightest color found on the margin. Be cautious since it can be hard to distinguish turkey tail mushrooms from some inedible mushrooms.
