What is Turkey Tail Mushroom?

At first glance, the name might sound strange - why would a mushroom be named after a turkey’s tail? But one look at this medicinal powerhouse and it makes sense: flat, fan-shaped, and marked by striking multicolored rings, Turkey Tail mushrooms truly resemble the feathers of their namesake.

Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor, also known as Coriolus versicolor) has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine, and it grows all over the world on logs, stumps, and fallen trees. Today, it’s one of the most researched medicinal mushrooms -especially when it comes to immune health.

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The Key Compounds: PSP & PSK

Turkey Tail stands apart because it’s one of the few mushrooms studied extensively in human clinical trials. That’s thanks to two unique compounds:

• Polysaccharopeptide (PSP) - discovered in China in the 1980s, rich in beta-glucans and proteins.

• Polysaccharide-K (PSK) - isolated in Japan in the 1960s, approved for clinical use alongside traditional cancer treatments.

Both PSP and PSK are loaded with beta-glucans - the immune-modulating polysaccharides that medicinal mushrooms are most famous for. These compounds support your body’s natural defenses, enhance immune cell activity, and may even play a role in supporting healthy cellular function.

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Disclaimer

Before we dive into benefits, remember: this isn’t medical advice. Turkey Tail is well-studied and promising, but always consult with a healthcare provider before starting new supplements.

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5 Evidence-Backed Benefits of Turkey Tail

1. Packed with Antioxidants

Turkey Tail is rich in phenols and flavonoids (over 35 types have been identified), including quercetin and baicalein. These compounds help reduce oxidative stress, fight inflammation, and support long-term cellular health.

2. Powerful Immune Support

Beta-glucans, PSP, and PSK all work together to strengthen your immune response. Research shows Turkey Tail can:

• Activate natural killer cells

• Support antibody production (IgM & IgG1)

• Help immune cells recognize and clear harmful pathogens

3. Gut & Digestive Health

Turkey Tail is a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in your gut microbiome. A clinical study found that Turkey Tail extracts promoted healthy gut flora while suppressing harmful bacteria like E. coli.

4. Support During Cancer Therapy

In Japan and China, PSK is officially approved to be used alongside chemotherapy and radiation. While more studies are needed, Turkey Tail mushroom shows promise in supporting the body during conventional treatments.

5. Liver & Detox Support

Traditional Chinese medicine has used Turkey Tail for centuries to support liver health. Modern research suggests it may help protect liver cells against oxidative stress and maintain healthy glutathione levels.

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Other Potential Benefits

• Adaptogenic support (helps the body manage stress)

• Antiviral & antibacterial properties

• May improve energy & athletic performance

• Potential cholesterol-balancing effects

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How to Use Turkey Tail

Turkey Tail is available in powders, capsules, and tinctures. Its mild, earthy flavor makes it easy to add to coffee, tea, or smoothies.

At Bloomable, we make it simple:

• Turkey Tail Extract Capsules — convenient, travel-friendly, and precisely dosed for daily immune and gut health.

• Turkey Tail Extract Powder — versatile, mix it into your morning coffee, cacao, or smoothie ritual.

Both are:
✔ 100% fruiting body
✔ Hot water extracted (for maximum beta-glucan bioavailability)
✔ Verified for beta-glucans
✔ Third-party tested & Health Canada licensed

Questions? Reach out to us at natalie@trybloomable.com and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

 Photo credits to The Sophisticated Caveman