Turkey Tail (Tramestes versicolor)

 

This very widely researched and documented mushroom is the source ingredient for our products: Turkey Tail Dual Extract ™  and our Turkey Tail Green ™ capsules.

 

The Capsules

Each of the Turkey Tail Green ™ size 0, Vegitarian, Chlorophyll - capsules contains 500 mg. of wild harvested, sun-dried and ground; powdered T. versicolor. With 2 to 4 capsules being the suggested daily dosage. As opposed to Chaga, this dried/powdered form of T. tramestes, is accessible to humans.

 

The dual extract

The greatest proportion of this mushroom's effective compounds can be extracted by simmering in water. We've chosen to provide the double extraction for two reasons: 1) Various authorities state that ingestion of the dual extraction (the form most studied) is a superior way to absorb the healthful components. 2) The tincturing acts to preserve the blend. The alcohol in the double extraction does tend to precipitate some of the polysaccerides so be sure to shake the bottle before each use.

 

Since 1977, in Japan, the T. versicolor fraction known as PSK has been approved of use in cancer treatment. Likewise in China, and other Asian countries, since the 1980's closely related fractions (PSP) have been marketed as anti-cancer drugs and adjunctive therapies. We make no such claims for our product, but suggest that the interested reader consult some of the more than 300 published clinical studies and, in concert with their health care providers, make up their own minds. Some of these studies are double-blind and these particularly should interest both potential users and allopathic physicians.

 

In cancer, the runaway cells often secrete compounds known as cytokines, chemical messenger cells, some of which give false signals to immune cells to stop working. This enhances the ability of the cancer to survive. Other cytokines i.e., T helper cells are specifically toxic to cancer cells. An unfortunate side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy is that these further damage the immune system, in part by inadvertently killing T helper cells. T. versicolor has been shown to restore or stimulate the production of these cytokines. Thus, according to several studies' the fractions (PSK and PSP) found in T. versicolor, have been particularly effective as adjuvant treatment, along with radiation or chemotherapy. Among the cancers studied were: gastric, esophageal, colorectal, breast, and lung cancer. Both of these fractions appear to be effective both as oral and as injectable protocols.

 

The spectrum of components provided include:

• Beta glucans

• Proteanated polysaccharides such as PSP (an isolated polysaccharopeptide) and PSK beta (1,4) D glucan protein

• Ergosterols

• Triterpenoids

 

Turkey tail should not be taken with immunosuppressive drugs, such as those prescribed to people with organ transplants, without first consulting a health care professional.

 

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