Turkey tail mushroom (Coriolus versicolor) is a fungus that grows on dead or dying trees. It is a polypore mushroom, which means that its spores are produced on the underside of the mushroom cap. Turkey tail mushroom has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including cancer, respiratory infections, and digestive problems.
What are the benefits of turkey tail mushrooms?
Turkey tail mushroom has a number of potential health benefits, including:
- Immune system support: Turkey tail mushroom contains compounds that can help boost the immune system. These compounds include beta-glucans, polysaccharides, and triterpenoids.
- Antioxidant activity: Turkey tail mushroom is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Cancer prevention: Some studies have shown that turkey tail mushrooms may help prevent cancer. The mushroom contains compounds that can help inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells.
- Anti-inflammatory activity: Turkey tail mushroom has anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a factor in many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
- Digestive health: Turkey tail mushrooms can help improve digestive health. The mushroom contains compounds that can help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
How to take turkey tail mushroom
Turkey tail mushroom supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules, powders, and extracts. The dosage of turkey tail mushrooms depends on the form of the supplement and the individual’s age, health, and weight.
For capsules, the typical dosage is 500-1,000 mg per day. For powders, the typical dosage is 1-2 grams per day. For extracts, the typical dosage is 100-200 mg per day.
Side effects of turkey tail mushroom
Turkey tail mushroom is generally considered safe. However, some people may experience mild side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, or stomach upset. If you experience any side effects, stop taking the supplement and talk to your doctor.
Who should not take turkey tail mushrooms?
People with certain medical conditions should not take turkey tail mushrooms without first talking to their doctor. These conditions include:
- Allergic to mushrooms: If you are allergic to mushrooms, you should not take turkey tail mushrooms.
- Taking blood thinners: Turkey tail mushrooms can interact with blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Taking chemotherapy or radiation therapy: Turkey tail mushrooms may interfere with the effectiveness of these treatments.
Best turkey tail mushroom capsules
There are many different brands of turkey tail mushroom capsules available. Some of the best brands include:
- Real Mushrooms: Real Mushrooms uses 100% organic turkey tail mushroom extract in their capsules. The capsules are also vegan and gluten-free.
- Host Defense: Host Defense is a well-known brand of mushroom supplements. Their turkey tail mushroom capsules are made with a blend of fruiting body and mycelium extract.
- Mushroom Wisdom: Mushroom Wisdom is a company that specializes in mushroom extracts. Their turkey tail mushroom capsules are made with a high-quality extract that is standardized for beta-glucans.
Conclusion
Turkey tail mushroom is a promising natural supplement with a number of potential health benefits. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits. If you are considering taking turkey tail mushrooms, talk to your doctor first.
