Turkey Tail Mushroom Capsules

Best Turkey Tail Mushroom Capsules

Ranging from a variety of colors, the visually appealing Turkey Tail mushroom matches its appearance with a variety of notable health benefits. An antioxidant-rich mushroom such as this is said to potentially replenish healthy gut flora, while boosting the immune system. Healthy levels of gut bacteria in itself can create a trail of health benefits such as better mood, increased energy, and improved mental clarity. Buy Best Turkey Tail Mushroom Capsules

Benefits of Turkey Tail

Turkey tail has well-documented uses for supporting immune function, reducing inflammation, improving gut health, and enhancing the efficacy of cancer treatments.

Many studies investigating the potential medicinal benefits of turkey tail have been conducted using animal models or in lab settings. More clinical research is needed to determine the specific uses of turkey tail for human health.

1. Immune Health Booster

Turkey tail contains a high concentration of two polysaccharides with immune-boosting properties: polysaccharide-K (krestin, or PSK) and polysaccharide peptides (polysaccharopeptides, or PSP). PSK and PSP are immunomodulators that stimulate and balance the immune system to help the body fight infection, cancer, and other diseases.2

PSPs stimulate immune cell production to help fight and protect against infection.3 Research suggests that PSPs may promote the growth of monocytes—a type of white blood cell that fights infection and improves immunity.4

Similarly, PSK helps support the immune system by activating the body’s natural killer cells to fight off infection and disease. It has also been shown to modulate the body’s immune response by suppressing inflammation, which may help protect against inflammatory diseases.5

2. Adjuvant Therapy for Cancer

Turkey tail extracts have been used in Japan for decades as an adjuvant (additional) therapy for cancer treatments. These extracts are often combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy to boost the efficacy of these treatments and improve outcomes.

A review of 13 clinical trials found that cancer patients given turkey tail in combination with standard treatments lived longer than those who received chemotherapy alone.6 The combination of turkey tail and chemotherapy was especially effective in improving outcomes for people with breast cancer, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer.

Other studies have shown that turkey tail extracts not only inhibit the growth of some cancer cells but also improve immune function in people with certain cancers, which may reduce the risk of infection.7

3. Gut Health Support

Turkey tail may improve gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria that support healthy digestion. Turkey tail acts as a prebiotic, stimulating the development of “good” bacteria in the gut microbiome. Having a healthy, balanced gut microbiome is linked to improved digestive health, a strong immune system, and a lower risk of gastrointestinal disorders and diseases.8

In one small older study from 2014, participants were given 3,600 milligrams (mg) of turkey tail PSP extract per day over eight weeks. Results showed that turkey tail extract increased the number of beneficial bacteria and suppressed the growth of potentially harmful bacteria.9

An earlier test-tube study found that turkey tail extract significantly increased the number of helpful bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, while reducing populations of “bad” bacteria, such as Clostridium and Enterococcus.10

4. Improved Athletic Performance

Turkey tail may boost stamina and fight fatigue to enhance athletic performance. A study using animal models found that turkey tail extract increased endurance and strength in mice. Moreover, the extract reduced physical fatigue in the mice and lowered blood sugar levels at rest and after exercise.11

Human trials are needed to determine what benefits turkey tail may offer athletes regarding endurance, strength, energy levels, and recovery.

5. Beneficial Effects of Antioxidants

Several of the compounds in turkey tail are powerful antioxidants, substances that help reduce oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress is considered bad because it can lead to organ and tissue damage. Antioxidants counteract the free radicals that cause this damage.

The antioxidants present in turkey tail include polysaccharides, ergothioneine, krestin, sterols, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, and melanin. These molecules help to protect the immune system by reducing inflammation and activating immune cells. They also help maintain healthy gut bacteria.12

6. Protection Against HPV

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection. It is also a well-known cause of cervical cancer and is suspected to be involved in the development of vaginal, vulvar, penile, anal, rectal, and oropharyngeal (back of the throat) cancer as well.13

Scientific research shows turkey tail may be able to help treat HPV and prevent cancer. When taken with another medicinal mushroom, turkey tail may help remove HPV from the cervix or mouth.13

The polysaccharides in turkey tail have beneficial effects on cancer caused by HPV. PSK and PSP in turkey tail can not only stop cancer cells from developing but also cause them to die. Turkey tail may be able to boost the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine, as well.13

7. Increase Bone Health

Animal model research found that turkey tail extract resulted in thicker, less porous bones for those dealing with Osteoporosis. It is important to note that the research was conducted via animal studies. More research is needed to explore the direct impact on human bone health.14

Other findings suggest turkey tail may protect against bone loss related to certain cancer treatments, as well.14

8. Boost Cognitive Function

Turkey tail is rich in antioxidants, which may improve cognitive function (e.g., memory, problem-solving) and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline. More research is needed to see the mushroom’s direct impact on cognitive function.

9. Support Healthy Aging

The antioxidants and immune-boosting properties of turkey tail may help support health and protect against inflammation and age-related diseases. Research suggests it might help protect against various types of cancer as bodies age, including gastric, lung, breast, and colorectal cancers.14

Other evidence suggests that the mushroom might be able to boost immune responses in aging bodies. However, more human-based research is needed to definitely state its effects.14

10. Balance Blood Sugar Levels

Studies using animal models show that turkey tail extracts may reduce blood sugar levels, improve insulin resistance, and prevent diabetes-related complications in people with type 2 diabetes