Clinical trials in the U.S.A suggest Turkey Tail is beneficial for chemotherapy patients as a powerful immune booster. Since chemotherapy suppresses the immune system, a stronger immune system can better deal with the bodily weakness often caused by chemotherapy. Other research suggests Turkey Tail can also aid in combating deadly cancer cells. In Japan and China, medicinal mushrooms have been used in cancer treatment protocols for more than 30 years. Although more research is required on how Turkey Tail specifically benefits cancer patients, there is enough evidence to suggest the mushroom significantly improves survival, according to a review conducted by the National Cancer Institute.
Studies examining patients with various types of cancer (lung, breast, gastric, and colorectal cancer) who were prescribed Turkey Tail extract in conjunction with traditional anti-cancer treatments have reported on the safety of its use with limited side effects. In randomised clinical trials of patients with lung cancer, researchers found patients receiving the mushroom extract improved in various ways, including body weight, well-being, immune function, tumour-related symptoms, and longer survival. It is believed that the powerful immune response of Turkey Tail helps the body’s natural self-healing qualities to be triggered, recognising the tumour, and increasing the effectiveness of other cancer treatments.
In addition to its powerful anti-cancerous properties, this fungus also contains bioactive compounds that provide a healthy gastrointestinal tract, aiding digestion and providing overall benefit to your gut. The Turkey Tail mycelium (that part of the mushroom that resides underground) is what contains the perfect prebiotics that assist the microbiome. Thus, stimulating the growth of good bacteria in the body, including Acidophilus and Bifidobacterium, which are important digestive and PH regulators. The presence of healthy gut bacteria is a key factor in the body’s ability to prevent disease and support the immune system.
As Turkey Tail balances PH levels in the system, this fungus maintains and promotes vaginal health, combating conditions such as Candida, while also promoting a healthy urinal tract, treating infections such as Cystitis and other bladder infections. Other common ailments positively impacted by the ingestion of Turkey Tail are herpes simplex and shingles, as symptoms are effectively treated and reoccurrence of flare-ups are greatly reduced. Thus, Turkey Tail is a potent antiviral, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial.
