Turkey Tail Mushroom.

Turkey Tail - ‘Trametes Versicolor’

Immune Modulation

Turkey Tail is rich in polysaccharides, which are complex carbohydrates that stimulate the production and activity of various immune cells, including macrophages, natural killer cells (NK cells), and T cells. These cells play a critical role in identifying and eliminating harmful pathogens, foreign substances, and abnormal cells within the body. Therefore Turkey Tail boosts your immune systems ability to recognize and target harmful pathogens, viruses and bacteria.
Turkey Tail is rich in antioxidants such as phenols and flavonoids, which both play a significant role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation within the body. Free radicals are the main causative factor of oxidative stress, derived from exposure to X-rays, ozone, cigarette smoking, air pollutants, and industrial chemicals. Through neutralizing these compounds, antioxidants support us in maintaining a balanced immune response and prevent excessive inflammation, which can lead to tissue damage over time.

Gut Health Support

The aforementioned polysaccharides contained within Turkey Tail also act as prebiotics. Prebiotics act as a valuable food source for beneficial gut bacteria; they are selectively fermented by our gut microbiome to promote the growth and activity of probiotics, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus which are crucial for optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.
Chronic inflammation in the gut can disrupt the delicate balance necessary for optimal digestive function. Turkey tail contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds, including polysaccharopeptides and polysaccharides. These substances have been shown to downregulate inflammatory substances, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). These are both important research finding that show promise for alleviating symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel conditions, such as Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.

Respiratory Health

The most integral part of respiratory health is maintaining an optimal immune system. When our respiratory system becomes compromised, it becomes more susceptible to infections and other respiratory conditions. The beta-glucans contained within Turkey Tail stimulate various immune cells, such as macrophages and natural killer cells, which play crucial roles in immunity. Inflammation in the respiratory tract can result in conditions like bronchitis, asthma, or even chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The anti-inflammatory compounds found in turkey tail mushroom help to reduce excessive inflammation, which can alleviate shortness of breath, coughing, excess mucous production, wheezing, and other symptoms of respiratory system inflammation.
Oxidative stress, which occurs when there is an imbalance between antioxidants and harmful free radicals, can contribute to respiratory damage and trigger symptoms of respiratory illnesses. Turkey tail is rich in antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds which helps to neutralise free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and protecting our respiratory cells against damage.

Blood Sugar Control

Turkey Tail aids in blood sugar control by increasing insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter cells efficiently. When insulin sensitivity is low, the cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Turkey Tail has been found to enhance insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to respond more effectively to insulin and facilitate better glucose (sugar) uptake.
Chronic inflammation is closely linked to insulin resistance and impaired blood sugar control. Through possessing potent anti-inflammatory properties, Turkey Tail can potentially mitigate insulin resistance and improve overall blood sugar management.
Additionally, Turkey Tail contains polysaccharides and beta-glucans, which have been shown to have hypoglycaemic effects. These compounds help regulate blood sugar levels by inhibiting the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. By slowing down the rate at which glucose is released into the bloodstream, Turkey Tail can prevent sharp spikes in blood sugar levels, promoting more stable glycemic control.