Turkey tail mushroom, also known as Trametes versicolor, is a type of mushroom that grows on dead trees and logs. It is commonly found in Asia, Europe, and North America. The mushroom has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is believed to have many health benefits, including cancer-fighting properties. In this article, we will explore the cancer-fighting benefits of turkey tail mushroom.
Turkey tail mushroom contains several compounds that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. One of these compounds is polysaccharide-K (PSK), which is a type of polysaccharide. PSK has been extensively studied and has been found to have anti-cancer effects in various types of cancer, including breast, lung, and colon cancer.
In a study conducted by the National Cancer Institute, it was found that PSK can enhance the immune system's response to cancer cells. PSK was shown to increase the production of immune cells, such as T cells and natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in fighting cancer cells.
Another compound found in turkey tail mushroom is polysaccharide peptide (PSP), which has also been found to have anti-cancer properties. PSP has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells. PSP has been studied in various types of cancer, including lung, liver, and colon cancer.
In addition to PSK and PSP, turkey tail mushroom contains other compounds that have anti-cancer properties, including beta-glucans and ergothioneine. Beta-glucans have been found to enhance the immune system's response to cancer cells, while ergothioneine has been shown to have antioxidant properties that can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Several studies have been conducted on the anti-cancer properties of turkey tail mushroom. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, it was found that women with breast cancer who took turkey tail mushroom extract in combination with chemotherapy had a higher survival rate than those who only received chemotherapy. In another study, it was found that turkey tail mushroom extract can enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy in treating head and neck cancer.
In conclusion, turkey tail mushroom has several compounds that have anti-cancer properties, including PSK and PSP. These compounds have been shown to enhance the immune system's response to cancer cells, inhibit the growth of cancer cells, and induce apoptosis in cancer cells. Turkey tail mushroom extract has also been found to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy in treating cancer. While more research is needed to fully understand the cancer-fighting benefits of turkey tail mushroom, it is a promising natural supplement that may help in the fight against cancer.