Turkey Tail

Other Names:

Cloud mushroom

Nutrition:

Turkey tail mushroom is one of the most well known of all medicinal mushrooms. It has a history of being used in traditional medicines and symbolises longevity and health. This mushroom is packed full of antioxidants, that can help reduce damage in the body caused by oxidative stress. In particular, phenols and flavonoids are antioxidants in turkey tail that promote a healthy immune system by reducing inflammation and encouraging the release of protective compounds.

Health Benefits:

Immune System support

Turkey tail is probably best known for its powerful immune support properties, especially in Asia. It is high in the protein bound polysaccharides PSK and PSP – types of polysaccharopeptides. These compounds are believed to be responsible for the mushrooms immune boosting properties – enhancing the effects of natural killer cells in the immune system that protect the body against viruses and bacteria. Some studies have demonstrated that PSP increases a type of white blood cell that fights infection and boosts immunity, called monocytes. Dendritic cells promote immunity to toxins and regulate immune response, these cells are stimulated by PSK. This polysaccharopeptide also activates macrophages, special cells that protect the body from harmful bacteria.