Origin of Turkey Tail

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor, or Coriolus versicolor and Polyporus versicolor), also known as the “Cloud Mushroom,” is a type of polypore mushroom that is found all over the world. Turkey Tail mushrooms are indigenous to woodland forests worldwide and have been naturally growing since ancient times. Documented in medical literature as early as the 15th century in China, these mushrooms continue to be harvested from the wild today and are also cultivated on a small scale for medicinal purposes. Much of its historical use originates from ancient China and Japan, where medicinal mushrooms were widely embraced for their healing properties. Turkey Tail was referenced in the earliest written text on medicinal herbs from the Han Dynasty, dating back to around 200 BC. Ancient cultures, particularly in China and Japan, revered this mushroom as a symbol of longevity, prosperity and spiritual well-being. In traditional Chinese medicine, Turkey Tail mushroom was referred to as Yun Zhi, and was believed to confer blessings upon those who consumed it.

The cap of the Turkey Tail mushroom comes in many sizes and has a texture resembling leather, adorned with rings displaying an array of colors including blacks, browns, whites and creams. It tends to grow in layers, with each cap being thin, only a few millimeters thick at most. Often, you will find multiple fruiting bodies clustered together in one spot, creating a striking display. These mushrooms grow in clusters of thin, leathery brackets with colorful zones on top and whitish pores below, typically thriving on logs and stumps of deciduous trees.

What sets Turkey Tail apart are the darker stripes covered in tiny hairs, visible when observed under a dissecting microscope. These minute details help distinguish the Turkey Tail from similar fungi, adding to its uniqueness. Moreover, its texture is notably tough and leathery compared to other fungi, giving it resilience and durability in the wild.

Turkey Tail mushroom stands out as one of the most extensively studied medicinal fungi. Rich in polysaccharides, particularly beta-glucans, it has demonstrated immune-stimulating and anti-tumor properties. Its potent antioxidant qualities contribute to its anticancer effects, akin to various other medicinal mushrooms. Turkey Tail contains polysaccharide-K (PSK), recognized as an approved anticancer medication in Japan. PSK not only boosts the immune system but also combats leukaemia cells, thereby enhancing the survival rates of individuals with specific cancers. Additionally, it is believed to bolster the immune system of those undergoing chemotherapy. Notably, Turkey Tail mushrooms boast some of the highest beta-glucan concentrations among all mushroom varieties.

Turkey Tail mushrooms offer a variety of benefits, making them a valuable addition to one’s diet, supporting overall health and well-being. Their consumption has been linked to improved skin health and anti-ageing effects, promoting a youthful appearance. Furthermore, Turkey Tail mushrooms aid in digestion, alleviate inflammation and enhance brain function, contributing to overall vitality and wellness. Read all about the health benefits of Turkey Tail in our blog.

Modern research confirms that compounds found in turkey tail mushrooms influence the immune system. More precisely, they function as nonspecific immune modulators. That is a fancy way of saying that something either stimulates or suppresses immune function in a general way.

At Organic Mushrooms, we offer the benefits of Turkey Tail as health supplements in the form of Turkey Tail extract powder, Turkey Tail capsules, Turkey Tail supplement gummies and Turkey Tail tinctures.

Turkey Tail mushroom is safe and generally well-tolerated, but it’s not recommended for use while pregnant or breastfeeding. Individuals should consult a doctor before incorporating Turkey Tail into their diet.