If you are looking for a natural way to boost your immune system and potentially prevent or treat cancer, you might want to consider turkey tail mushrooms. These colorful fungi have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, especially in Asia, and have recently gained attention from researchers and health enthusiasts for their anticancer properties.
What are turkey tail mushrooms?
Turkey tail mushrooms, also known as Trametes versicolor or Coriolus versicolor, are a type of mushroom that grows on dead or decaying wood. They have a fan-shaped appearance and a variety of colors, such as brown, gray, white, blue, green, and red. Their name comes from their resemblance to the tail feathers of a turkey.
Turkey tail mushrooms are edible, but they are not very tasty or tender. They are usually consumed as extracts, powders, teas, or capsules. You can find them in health food stores, online shops, or even in your own backyard if you live in a wooded area.
What are the benefits of turkey tail mushrooms?
Turkey tail mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, such as phenols and flavonoids, that can protect your cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress and inflammation are linked to many chronic diseases, including cancer.
Turkey tail mushrooms also contain polysaccharides, which are complex carbohydrates that have various biological activities. Two of the most studied polysaccharides in turkey tail mushrooms are polysaccharopeptide (PSP) and polysaccharide-K (PSK).
PSP and PSK have been shown to stimulate the immune system by activating various immune cells, such as macrophages, natural killer cells, T cells, and B cells. These cells can recognize and destroy abnormal or infected cells, including cancer cells.
PSP and PSK may also inhibit the growth, migration, and invasion of cancer cells by interfering with their signaling pathways and inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death).
How can turkey tail mushrooms help with cancer treatment?
Turkey tail mushrooms are not a cure for cancer, but they may be a useful adjunct therapy that can enhance the effects of conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation. They may also help reduce the side effects of these treatments by improving the quality of life and well-being of cancer patients.
Several studies have investigated the potential of turkey tail mushrooms for different types of cancer, such as breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, prostate cancer, and leukemia. The results have been promising, but more research is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of turkey tail mushrooms for human use.
Some of the evidence for turkey tail mushrooms and cancer includes:
- A 2012 study involving nine women with breast cancer who took turkey tail extract daily for six months after completing radiation therapy. The results showed that the extract improved their immune status and increased the number of natural killer cells in their blood.
- A 2011 meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials involving 1,087 patients with colorectal cancer who took PSK along with chemotherapy. The results showed that PSK significantly improved the survival rate and reduced the recurrence rate of colorectal cancer.
- A 2006 study involving 185 patients with non-small cell lung cancer who took PSP along with chemotherapy. The results showed that PSP improved the response rate and survival rate of the patients compared to chemotherapy alone.
- A 2005 study involving 262 patients with gastric cancer who took PSK along with chemotherapy after surgery. The results showed that PSK increased the survival rate and reduced the recurrence rate of gastric cancer.
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- A 2004 study involving 28 patients with prostate cancer who took PSP along with hormonal therapy. The results showed that PSP reduced the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a marker of prostate cancer progression.
Are there any risks or side effects of turkey tail mushrooms?
Turkey tail mushrooms are generally considered safe and well-tolerated by most people. However, some people may experience allergic reactions or digestive issues, such as nausea, diarrhea, or bloating. These symptoms are usually mild and transient.
If you have a medical condition or take any medication, you should consult your doctor before taking turkey tail mushrooms. Some possible interactions or contraindications include:
- Anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs: Turkey tail mushrooms may increase the risk of bleeding by affecting blood clotting.
- Immunosuppressants: Turkey tail mushrooms may interfere with the action of these drugs by stimulating the immune system.
- Diabetes: Turkey tail mushrooms may lower blood sugar levels by affecting insulin secretion or sensitivity.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: There is not enough evidence to determine the safety of turkey tail mushrooms for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
How to use turkey tail mushrooms?
There is no standard dosage for turkey tail mushrooms, but some studies have used doses ranging from 3 to 9 grams per day for cancer patients. The dosage may vary depending on the form, quality, and potency of the product, as well as the individual's body weight, health status, and goals.
You can take turkey tail mushrooms in various forms, such as extracts, powders, teas, or capsules. You can also add them to your soups, stews, or salads if you don't mind their texture and flavor.
You should always choose a high-quality product that is certified organic, non-GMO, and free of contaminants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, or molds. You should also look for a product that contains a high percentage of polysaccharides, especially PSP and PSK.
Conclusion
Turkey tail mushrooms are a natural source of antioxidants and polysaccharides that may help boost your immune system and fight cancer. They may also improve your quality of life and well-being if you are undergoing conventional cancer treatments.
However, turkey tail mushrooms are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. You should always consult your doctor before taking any supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or take any medication.
Turkey tail mushrooms may be a valuable addition to your health regimen, but they are not a magic bullet. You should also follow a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management.
