Turkey tail mushroom extract 20:1 | Coriolus versicolor

Properties: Turkey tail is certainly one of the most interesting mushrooms used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is a distant and probably somewhat lesser-known relative of Ganoderma lucidum, commonly known as Reishi. Just as its cousin, Coriolus provides excellent support for the work of the immune system. Thanks to the presence of numerous active compounds, this fungus enhances the production of lymphocytes and macrophages – white blood cells whose main task is to identify and eliminate microbes that attack our bodies. Therefore, in case of infection, we can be better prepared to fight back. Moreover, it stimulates the proliferation of NK cells, which are an important part of the innate immune response. NK cells sweep through the organism looking for abnormal, damaged or infected cells and then destroy them so that healthy cells can be protected. It is worth noting that balanced NK activity is an important factor in the prevention of cancer, since it is the NKs that prevent its development by fighting cancer cells. For this reason, scientists are interested in the immunomodulating properties of Coriolus and investigate its potential in anti-cancer therapy. Preliminary results show that the mushroom may indeed be an effective aid in that regard.

It is important to note that the active compounds of the turkey tail mushroom have a beneficial influence on the intestinal microbiota. Why is that so relevant? Obviously, microorganisms inhabiting the digestive tract play a key role in metabolic processes and help to efficiently digest the food we eat. However, we shouldn’t forget that it is the gut microbes that largely support our immunity by neutralizing germs and stimulating the production of immune cells. As research indicates, Coriolus has a good effect on the microbiota, as it intensifies the proliferation of those bacteria strains that are most desirable and beneficial for us. This way, it provides comprehensive support for the overall vitality and the natural defense capability of the body. But that’s not all! Thanks to studies, it has been established that it can also benefit endurance while reducing the feeling of fatigue by normalizing blood glucose levels. Since glucose is a kind of fuel necessary for the production of energy in the body cells, intensified delivery of this substance to the muscles allows them to work more efficiently and for longer periods of time.

Ultimately, we should also mention that Coriolus supports the nervous system. Its biologically active compounds exhibit neuroprotective effects, which basically means that they protect neurons, counteracting harmful factors such as chronic inflammation or oxidative stress. In addition to that, they stimulate the production of new nerve cells, benefiting cognitive functions in particular. Therefore, extract from turkey tail mushroom can be used as a comprehensive help for the body. It is excellent for people who want to strengthen their physical well-being and support the body in the fight against infections. And due to its ability to protect neurons, it also brings benefits for the proper work and regeneration of the nervous system.

Occurrence: Turkey tail mushroom (Coriolus versicolor) is a fungus species in the family Polyporaceae, related to the Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum). It is common on all continents except Antarctica and on many islands. It is probably one of the most popular representatives of this family in Europe. It is a saprotrophic organism, growing on the trunks and stumps of trees, mostly deciduous. It often appears soon after the tree dies or is cut down. Its fruiting bodies are 3-8 cm wide and up to 5 mm thick. They adhere to the tree sideways or medially, taking a disc or rosette-like shape. Young fruiting bodies are light brown in color and similar to felt in texture. Over time they become smooth and acquire a silky shine. Distinct concentric spheres of various shades, from brown through dark blue to black, appear on them. Algae often grow on older fruiting bodies, turning them greenish in color. The hymenophore is tubular. Tubules up to 2 mm long and cream-colored (on older fruiting bodies – light brown) form a single layer. The flesh is very thin, up to 5 mm. It is white in color, flexible and aromatic. In China, Hong Kong, Laos and Mexico, Coriolus is considered an edible mushroom.

Biochemistry: The most important biologically active compound present in the fruiting bodies of Coriolus is a polysaccharide bound to a protein residue called polysaccharide K. It is composed predominantly of beta-glucan, while the protein part accounts for about 25% of the weight of the whole polymer. Its anticancer properties are the subject of intensive scientific research. In addition, Coriolus versicolor contains a number of other substances, which include polysaccharides, protein-polysaccharide complexes, phenolic and flavonoid compounds, terpenes and fatty acids. Noteworthy, among the latter are oleic acid and linoleic acid.

Fun fact: In 1973, there was new preparation introduced to the market. It’s become known as Krestin and it was used to treat stomach cancer as well as acute leukemia. It contained coriolane – a substance isolated from Coriolus versicolor that exhibits anticancer properties and is able to stimulate immunity. In some countries, the extract from this mushroom is still being used as a support for proper cancer therapy.