Turkey Tail: The Immune Mushroom
Beyond excited to have found this magical specimen in the wild (well literally in my sisters garden).
Turkey tail (Corolius versicoloured) is a highly researched medicinal mushroom that grows on dead logs around the world.
The list of turkey tail benefits is quite long as it has some pretty powerful antioxidants and immune enhancing benefits.
It is a really useful medicinal mushroom for those needing to regulate their immune system. Think autoimmune conditions, frequent colds and infections, warts, cold sores, tonsillitis, gut imbalances.
It increases NK cells. These attack foreign or harmful substances I.e. cancer cells, viruses, bacteria.
It also increases T-lymphocytes = the immune system system memory recorded and ready to mount a recurrent infection.
Has the ability to modulate inflammation through
Has powerful antiviral effects in HIV, EBV, and hepatitis B virus.
It’s extracts are used for cancer treatment protocols in areas like Japan because of its ability to kill cancer cells. And reduces the side effects of chemo/radiation
Its therefore useful for autoimmune conditions and hormone driven cancers like breast, ovarian, prostate cancers but also other types like gastric, lung, liver, colorectal and esophageal.
They can easily be confused with another type of mushroom called Stereum hirsutum, which isn’t thoroughly researched to classify as safe. So how can you tell if its a true turkey tail?
When you observe the back side of the turkey tail mushroom, you should see tiny pores on a white/silvery head. The pores measure 3-8mm.
If you want to make your own medicinal mushroom powder with foraged turkey tail, check my post on instagram
I use medicinal mushrooms as powders in my tea/coffee for a health boost. Will be making these into a powder after drying them.
Other mushrooms I love include cordyceps, lions mane and reishi. The list of medicinal fungi is insane! If you live near old logs/forest, I highly recommend to start looking out for these fun guys.
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