Turkey Tail Extract
Turkey Tail Extract
Snapshot
Turkey Tail Extract is a concentrated mushroom supplement from Trametes versicolor fruiting bodies, rich in polysaccharopeptides that support immune modulation, gut health, and antioxidant defenses.
ย
What is Turkey Tail Extract?
Turkey Tail Extract is derived from the fruiting bodies of the Trametes versicolor fungus, commonly known as Turkey Tail mushroom. It concentrates bioactive polysaccharopeptidesโprimarily PSK (Krestin) and PSPโthat enhance immune cell activity and balance microbiota.
Where It Comes From
Mature Turkey Tail mushrooms are sustainably harvested or cultivated, cleaned, and subjected to hotโwater extraction to isolate waterโsoluble polysaccharides. The extract is filtered, concentrated, and sprayโdried into a fine powder standardized for PSK and PSP content.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides polysaccharideโK (PSK), polysaccharopeptide (PSP), betaโglucans, and trace phenolic compounds that synergize to modulate innate and adaptive immune responses.
Health Benefits
Turkey Tail Extract enhances natural killer cell and macrophage activity; supports balanced cytokine production; promotes healthy gut microbiota by acting as a prebiotic; and offers antioxidant protection that mitigates oxidative stress.
Recommended Dosage
Typical dosing ranges from 1โฏg to 3โฏg of extract daily, divided into two or three servings with meals. Cancer support protocols often use 3โฏg daily of PSKโstandardized extract under clinical guidance.
How to Use It
Mix the powder into hot water, tea, coffee, or smoothies. Capsules can be taken with a meal to optimize absorption. Begin with lower doses and increase gradually to assess tolerance.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for individuals seeking to support immune resilience, those recovering from illness, or anyone aiming to balance gut flora. Clinical use of PSK for adjunct cancer therapy should follow medical supervision.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Generally well tolerated. Rare gastrointestinal discomfort may occur. Use caution if on immunosuppressive medications; consult a healthcare provider before combining with prescription therapies.
Final Thoughts
Turkey Tail Extract is a wellโresearched medicinal mushroom offering multifaceted immune and gut support. Its synergy of PSK, PSP, and betaโglucans makes it a valuable adjunct in wellness and therapeutic protocols.
Scientific Studies
FukuzawaโฏT, etโฏal. Enhancement of immune functions by administration of Trametes versicolor extract in healthy volunteers. Int J Immunopharmacol. 1996;18(12):857โ865. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0192-0561(96)00076-8
OoiโฏVEC, LiuโฏF. Immunomodulation and anticancer activity of polysaccharideโprotein complexes. Curr Med Chem. 2000;7(7):715โ729. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929867003373365
MizunoโฏT, etโฏal. Antitumor polysaccharide from Coriolus versicolor (Turkey Tail): clinical efficacy and safety in cancer patients. Jpn J Complement Altern Med. 2008;5(2):147โ153.