Trametes Versicolor
Common name: Turkey Tail, Cloud Mushroom
Family: Polyporaceae
Part used: Fungal fruiting body
Habitat and Description: Turkey Tail is a type of bracket fungus which grows wild and is common throughout the UK. It is found growing on dead hardwood trees such as oak or beech. It is characterised by its appearance of concentric rings of purple, yellow, blue and brown colour in a fan like formation, hence earning its name of Turkey Tail.
Constituents: Polysaccharides (PSK and PSP), Triterpenoids, Vitamin B2, Lipids, Ergosterol, Hydroxymethylquinoline, Peptides (ternatin), Monosaccharides, Essential and non essential amino acids (leucine, methionine, glucamine) and fatty acids (linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linolenic acid)
Actions: anticancer, antiviral, antitumour, antioxidant, immunostimulant, immunomodulating, antioxidant, antiproliferative
Traditional and current uses:
Turkey Tail has traditionally been used in Japan to help support the immune system in cancer recovery. PSK has since been approved in Japan as an effective cancer treatment.
- PSK boosts enhances the immune system and boosts immune cell production including lymphocyctes, natural killer cells, T and B cells.
- Aids in supporting the body to fight infection.
- Commonly used to help treat certain cancers including breast, lung, ovary and stomach.
- Stimulates production of interferon (substances released in the body to tackle viruses and infections).
- Approved in China to treat lung diseases and general immunity.
- Boosts production of white blood cells and antibodies.
- Has been shown to support patients in cancer therapy and recovery due to its immune supporting properties.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.