Turkey tail
Also called: Medicinal mushroom, Trametes versicolor, Coriolus versicolor
A striped, fan-shaped mushroom rich in beta-glucans that stimulate the immune system. Extracts from it are used alongside cancer care in Japan.
Commonly used for
- Immune support
- Gut balance (acts as a prebiotic)
- Support alongside cancer care, with your oncologist's approval
Found naturally in
- Turkey tail mushroom, too tough to eat, traditionally simmered as a tea
Label red flags
- No beta-glucan percentage listed
- 'Myceliated grain' or 'mycelium biomass' as the main ingredient
Check with a provider
- Autoimmune conditions. Because it stimulates the immune system, ask your provider first.
- Taking immune-suppressing medicines
- Having chemotherapy or other cancer treatment. Check with your oncologist first.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: not well studied
Supplements that contain it
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Blood & immune system
Blood carries oxygen and nutrients, and white blood cells defend you from infection. In autoimmune disease, that defense system targets your own tissues.
Digestive tract
Your stomach and intestines absorb nutrients and hold most of your body's immune tissue, which makes the gut a common target in autoimmune disease.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Wondering if your symptoms fit a pattern?
Dr. Lesher is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in women's autoimmune and chronic conditions. Since 2020, she has helped more than 900 patients overcome and heal from their conditions.