Turkey Tail

Outcovers, in Latin Coriolus or Trametes versicolor, also known as Turkey Tail , in Chinese called Yun Zhi, which means "grass of the realm of heaven", is one of the best known and most studied medicinal mushrooms in the world. It belongs to the choroche family.

Its main host in Central Europe is beech, more rarely oak, birch, hazel or willow, but it can also be found on many other hardwoods, rarely also on conifers. It grows on stumps, piles of wood, lying trunks or branches of dead trees. This species of fungus can be found in virtually all types of forests around the world and is valued not only for its beautiful and varied colours, but especially for its wide range of health benefits.

HISTORY

The effects of Outkovka have been known in China for centuries. Due to its revitalizing effects, which have a positive impact on both the body and mind, it was a highly valued medicine at the Chinese court. Coriolus is mentioned inthe herbarium ofthe legendary Chinese emperor Shen Nong, who was the founder of Chinese agriculture and herbalism. He describes Coriolus as a mushroom "prolongs life, calms the nerves, strengthens male potency and hearing". However, according to traditional medicine, Coriolus had the most significant effect in helping to treat cancer. Chinese doctors have known about its anti-cancer effects since at least the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD).

It is abundantly mentioned in Chinese writings from the 14th century, which describe the use of the mushroom for overall health, improving physical and mental condition and strengthening qi energy. The Western scientific world began to register Coriolus only from the 1960s-70s. At that time, a polysaccharide called PSK was discovered in the mushroom and, as later studies showed, this substance has a significant effect on stimulating the body's immune and defense system. The results of the studies were so convincing that Coriolus has entered clinical medicine in Japan and Korea, where it is administered to most cancer patients.

CHEMISTRY

A number of biologically active substances have been detected in the fruiting bodies of the Turkey Tail. A large part (as in all mushrooms) consists of sugar compounds - carbohydrates. The most important are polysaccharides, especially the group of so-called beta-glucans. Coriolus is specific for its content of the polysaccharide Krestin (PSK) and polysaccharidopeptide (PSP).

Coriol also revealed 18 amino acids that play a key role in human health. The most abundant are leucine, isoleucine, methionine, tyrosine, glutamine and asparagine. Proteins are also synthesized from amino acids. Of interest here are the enzymes that break down woody matter to give energy to mushroom , i.e. lactases, chitinases, etc. Coriolus also contains an RNA cleaving enzyme, i.e. RNase.

Other very interesting components of Outlova are phenolic compounds, which have antioxidant, anticancer and antimicrobial effects.

Outlova also contains fatty acids, especially polyunsaturated ones, known as omega 3 or 6. Saturated ones such as oleic, linoleic, linolenic, palmitic and stearic acids are also present in smaller concentrations .

When listing the ingredients of Coriol, it is not possible to omit minerals and trace elements. These are mainly potassium, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron. Of the vitamins, then vitamin D2 - ergosterol and vitamins of group B.

EFFECTS

Coriolus contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, can boost immunity, destroy infectious pathogens and has been shown to prevent cancer. Regular consumption of this mushroom can lead to the protection of cells and tissues from damage and support the overall vitality of the body.

Contained beta-glucans can support and regulate the immune system, can stimulate macrophages, dendritic cells and natural killer cells (NK cells), which increases the body's ability to defend against infections and diseases.

Outca contains prebiotic ingredients that may support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and thus contribute to the maintenance of a healthy gut microbiome, which is crucial for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Coriolus also has potential protective effects on the lining of the digestive tract, according to scientific studies, this may be particularly helpful for people with sensitive stomachs or intestinal problems.

According to some scientific studies, mushroom has apositive effect on the health of the heart and blood vessels. It contains compounds that can help maintain normal cholesterol levels and promote healthy blood pressure.

Turkey Tail's anti-inflammatory effects may reduce the risk of nervous system damage, and serve as a prevention of neurodegenerative diseases (Dementia, Alzheimer's, Meniere's disease). Mushroom helps to harmonize pancreatic function, thereby promoting insulin production. This can reduce blood sugar levels, which can also be used in the treatment of type I and type II diabetes.

In traditional Chinese medicine, Turkey Tail is also used to promote psychological well-being. Some research suggests that it may have adaptogenic properties, which means that it helps the body better cope with stressful situations. This can help to reduce overall stress levels and improve quality of life.

One of the most researched benefits of Turkey Tail is its use as a complementary therapy in cancer treatment. Mushroom contains two key bioactive substances - PSK (Crestin) and PSP (polysaccharidopeptide). These substances can promote immune cell activation, improve the body's response to cancer treatment and help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE

Ultrasonic tincture

For health support, it is recommended to take an ultrasonic tincture of Turkey Tail mushroom at a dose of 1 ml twice a day.

Extract

One teaspoon of mushroom powder/extract is usually taken twice a day.

COMBINATION

According to new scientific studies, Coriolus can be combined with Ginkgo Bilobawhere it can improve brain function and memory. To promote adaptogenic effects and overall body health, the tincture can also be taken with other medicinal mushrooms and other adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Maca and Cacao.