Turkey Tail
Trametes versicolor · Coriolus versicolor
Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor / Coriolus versicolor) is one of the most-researched medicinal mushrooms in Asia, particularly in Japan and China for cancer adjunct therapy. Active compounds are PSK (Polysaccharide K, krestin) and PSP (Polysaccharide Peptide) - protein-bound beta-glucans. PSK has been an FDA-equivalent approved adjunctive cancer therapy in Japan since 1977.
Divided doses preferred for cancer adjunct.
Start here. Every protocol below is ordered lowest-first. Begin at the smallest effective dose, hold about a week to assess tolerance, and step up only if needed.
How it works
PSK and PSP drive Turkey Tail's effects:
PSK (Polysaccharide K / Krestin)
Protein-bound beta-glucan that activates immune system via dendritic cells, macrophages, NK cells, and T-cells. Reduces tumor growth in animal models and improves immune function in cancer patients.
PSP (Polysaccharide Peptide)
Similar mechanism, isolated from different Coriolus strain.
Cancer Survival
Japanese trials show improved 5-year survival in gastric and colorectal cancer when PSK is added to standard chemotherapy.
Microbiome
Beta-glucans modulate gut microbiota - prebiotic effect.
What to expect
Days 1-14: subtle subjective effects.
Weeks 2-12: peak immune effects.
Long-term continuous use OK.
Evidence
Claims we could not support
No abstract we checked supports these for this molecule at this route. That is not the same as saying they are false — it marks where the evidence is missing.
Exact-molecule abstract evidence. ESearch was run and 3 source-candidate PMIDs were EFetch-checked; no usable exact-molecule abstract sentence was found.
Dose/route: 1-3g daily; Oral capsule, powder, or extract; 1-3x daily. No selected live abstract sentence verified this complete regimen.
Mechanism as written in source JSON. No selected live abstract sentence verified the complete mechanism at the card formulation/route and relevant population/model.
Primary safety claim as written in source JSON. No selected live abstract sentence verified the complete safety claim for this exact formulation and route.
Side effects & safety
Commonly reported
- Mild GI
- Mild headache (rare)
Less common & notes
- Allergic reactions rare.
- Long-term safety excellent per Japanese pharmaceutical use of PSK.
Pharmacokinetics
Variable
Cumulative effects over weeks
Oral moderate
Daily dosing for sustained effects
Hepatic and intestinal
Storage. Capsule/powder. Cool dry location.
Regulatory status
PSK is pharmaceutical drug in Japan. Dietary supplement (US, DSHEA).
Put it to work
Calculate, log & track
Open Turkey Tail straight into OnePin with your vial and dose pre-filled, then let it handle the syringe math and remind you before the vial runs out.
Open Turkey Tail in the app →Go deeper
The guide & community
The complete Turkey Tail walkthrough, real protocol discussion and coaching live inside the BlessUp community on Skool.
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