Turkey tail mushrooms are colourful fungi commonly found on tree trunks. They are known for their potential health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and acting as a prebiotic to support gut health.
These mushrooms are widely available in places like the United States and have a distinctive fan shape that resembles a turkey's tail. In traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, turkey tail mushrooms (referred to as Yun Zhi in China and kawaratake in Japan) have been used for centuries.
In modern times, people have started using turkey tail mushrooms as a complementary treatment, especially for cancer. However, before adding them to your routine, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional and only purchase purified supplements from reputable sources.
Let's take a deeper look at the potential health benefits of turkey tail mushrooms.
1. Cancer-Fighting Potential
Turkey tail mushrooms have shown promise in supporting cancer treatments due to their immune-boosting properties. They contain compounds called polysaccharopeptide (PSP) and polysaccharide-K (PSK), which may help stimulate the immune system, particularly when combined with other anticancer therapies.
In Japan, PSK is officially used as an adjunct cancer treatment. However, it has not been approved by the FDA in the United States. Studies suggest that turkey tail mushrooms may benefit people dealing with specific types of cancer:
-Colon cancer: A 2019 study found that PSP from turkey tail mushrooms could inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells and prevent them from spreading.
-Gastric cancer: A 2023 review of multiple studies indicated that PSK might help extend the survival time of people with gastric cancer, particularly for those with PD-L1 negative tumors, which typically don't respond well to immunotherapy.
-Breast cancer: Limited research has explored the benefits of turkey tail for breast cancer. A small clinical trial showed that turkey tail extract might increase immune cells that fight cancer, but larger studies are needed to confirm these results.
2. Gut Health Benefits
Like most mushrooms, turkey tail is rich in fibre, which promotes healthy digestion. But its benefits go beyond that. Research shows that turkey tail mushrooms can alter the gut microbiome, helping the body maintain a balance of healthy gut bacteria. This balance is crucial for overall health and may prevent various other conditions.
3. Antimicrobial Properties
Turkey tail mushrooms may support gut health by promoting healthy bacteria, but they also have antibacterial properties. A 2024 review suggested that turkey tail extract might be effective against common pathogens like *Staphylococcus aureus*, *Escherichia coli*, and *Listeria*.
Additionally, previous research hinted that turkey tail mushrooms might have antiviral effects against viruses such as HIV, HPV, and herpes simplex. They may also have antifungal properties against *Candida albicans*. However, more research is needed to understand how strong these effects are, especially in humans.
It's important to remember that while these properties are promising, turkey tail mushrooms are not a replacement for conventional medical treatments.
4. Risks of Turkey Tail Mushrooms
For most people, turkey tail mushrooms appear to have minimal side effects. However, some users report mild digestive issues such as upset stomach, nausea, bloating, or heartburn. Additionally, people with allergies to mushrooms or mold should avoid turkey tail, as it may trigger severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Another point to consider is that mushrooms can absorb metals from the environment they grow in, which can pose a health risk. Therefore, it's crucial to buy turkey tail supplements from trusted sources that test their products for safety.
Always consult a doctor before trying turkey tail mushrooms or any other supplements, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are undergoing treatment.
Summary
Turkey tail mushrooms have shown potential as an immune booster, particularly for people undergoing cancer treatment. They may also support gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria and providing fibre.
While turkey tail mushrooms should not replace standard medical treatments, they can be a useful complementary therapy under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Be sure to discuss with your doctor before trying these mushrooms, as they may have side effects or interact with other medications.
Further research is needed to confirm the full range of benefits that turkey tail mushrooms may offer. However, they represent a promising natural option in the world of complementary medicine.