FAQ

Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor, also called Coriolus versicolor) is a bracket fungus that grows on dead wood in many parts of the world. It gets its common name from the colored bands on its cap, which can resemble a turkey’s tail. Turkey tail has a history of use in traditional Asian practices and is also sold as teas, powders, capsules, and extracts.

Turkey tail contains polysaccharides and other compounds that researchers have studied for their effects on immune function and the gut microbiome. Some extracts, including PSK and PSP, have been studied more extensively than ordinary mushroom powders. Research is still evolving, and a turkey tail supplement should not be presented as proven to prevent, cure, or treat a disease.

Turkey tail is commonly prepared as tea or broth and is also available as powders, capsules, and concentrated extracts. Because products can differ substantially in their ingredients and strength, follow the manufacturer’s directions and choose products from reputable sources. If you take medication or have a medical condition, discuss supplements with a qualified healthcare professional before using them.

Turkey tail is generally considered well tolerated, but side effects can occur. Reported effects with turkey tail or its extracts include digestive symptoms, dark-colored stools, and darkening of the fingernails. Individual products vary, so stop using a product and seek medical advice if you develop a concerning reaction.

Certain standardized turkey tail extracts, especially PSK, have been studied as additions to conventional cancer treatment, and PSK has been used as an adjunct treatment in Japan. This does not mean that ordinary turkey tail supplements treat cancer. In the United States, the FDA has not approved turkey tail or PSK as a cancer treatment. Anyone receiving cancer treatment should speak with their oncology team before taking turkey tail or another dietary supplement.

Talk with a qualified healthcare professional before using a concentrated turkey tail supplement if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medicines, have an autoimmune condition, are receiving immunotherapy or other cancer treatment, or have another significant medical condition. Supplement quality and potency can vary between products, and supplements can sometimes affect medications or treatment plans.