Turkey Tail Mushrooms
By Madeline May |
Turkey tail mushrooms are a type of wild mushroom that has gained popularity in the medical world due to its numerous benefits for cancer patients and the general population.
Turkey Tail Mushroom Cancer Treatment
Turkey tail mushrooms are a type of wild mushroom that has gained popularity in the medical world due to its numerous benefits for cancer patients and the general population. Scientists refer to these mushrooms for cancer by three different scientific names: Trametes versicolor, Coriolus versicolor, and Polyporus versicolor. In many Asian countries, people refer to turkey tail mushrooms as Yun Zhi, and they have been used for decades as part of standard cancer treatment.
A recent study on this magic herb found that cancer patients who were given 1-3.6 grams of turkey tail mushroom every day, in addition to conventional cancer treatments, experienced a 9% reduction in 5-year mortality compared to the control group. The types of cancer treated with turkey tail mushrooms in this study included breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and gastric cancer. But how exactly do these mushrooms fight cancer in the body?
Benefits of Turkey Tail Mushrooms
Turkey tail mushroom benefits include vitamins and antioxidants that are vital for survival. However, it’s challenging to distinguish between mushrooms that are good for your health, such as improving heart and lung health, managing diabetes, and protecting against illnesses, and those with psychoactive or deadly effects. Scientists believe that polysaccharides (beta-glucans) found in mushrooms can strengthen the immune system by stimulating immune cells. A single sample of turkey tail mushrooms contains over 35 beneficial phenolic and antioxidant compounds. These include flavonoid antioxidants like quercetin and baicalein, which have immune-boosting properties and have become increasingly popular in vitamin stores.
Turkey tail mushrooms have numerous health benefits, such as:
- Additional beneficial gut bacteria.
- Improved immune function.
- Improved liver and kidney function.
- Increased energy levels.
- Enhanced the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments.
- Immune-boosting polysaccharopeptides.
- Rich in antioxidants.
Researchers believe that turkey tail mushrooms have potential benefits such as fighting HPV, reducing inflammation, improving athletic performance, possessing antibacterial qualities, and enhancing insulin resistance. Consuming mushrooms may cause potential side effects such as heartburn, bloating, dark fingernails, and dark stool. People with mold allergies may also experience allergic reactions, and individuals with diabetes may experience low blood sugar levels. It is important to note that professionals are still studying the medical qualities of mushrooms, and it is recommended to consult a medical professional before consuming them.
Potential Cancer Treatment Benefits and Side Effects
Research has shown that turkey tail contains active compounds called polysaccharide krestin (PSK) and polysaccharopeptide (PSP), which have been studied in patients with lung cancer as well as breast, gastric, and colorectal cancer. These compounds are beneficial as they increase the number of monocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in fighting infections. Turkey tail mushroom anti-cancer cells also help to inhibit tumor growth with minimal negative effects on other bodily systems. This is significant news for cancer researchers as traditional cancer treatments can have harmful side effects on the body. Furthermore, scientists have found that turkey tail mushroom compounds increase beneficial gut bacteria, which supports overall immune system health.
Mushrooms for Treatment and Cancer Research
According to research conducted by the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, various controlled trials, both randomized and nonrandomized, have demonstrated a wide range of benefits. These include improvements in immune parameters, hematological functions, performance status, body weight, fatigue, and anorexia, as well as median survival and survival rates for 1, 2, and 5 years. However, there were contradictory findings for certain symptoms related to tumors and medical survival.
It’s important to exercise caution when it comes to using turkey tail mushrooms for cancer treatment, even though studies show promise. Before incorporating mushrooms into your medications or treatment plan, it’s best to consult with your doctor to determine the appropriate dosage and whether it’s a safe option for you. Keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration has not approved medicinal mushrooms for cancer treatment or any other medical condition.
How to Get Turkey Tail Mushrooms and Legal Help
Depending on your location, you may have the opportunity to gather fresh turkey tail mushrooms for cancer all year round. Foragers may find these mushrooms at the base of conifers, on dead hardwood stumps, or on downed hardwood trucks or branches. If fresh mushrooms aren’t available, you can purchase turkey tail mushrooms in supplement form from health food stores, online retailers, and specialty supplement stores. To guarantee safe consumption, it’s crucial to purchase organic certified mushrooms from reliable and reputable retailers.
If a doctor has diagnosed you with lung cancer, you may qualify for legal support. Numerous patients have developed lung cancer due to exposure to chemicals like asbestos. To learn more and connect with experienced medical attorneys, reach out to Lung Cancer Center.
Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.