Have you ever heard of Turkey Tail? It's that mushroom with its wavy texture that resembles the plumage of those famous birds! If you enjoy nature walks, you've probably come across them: they can be found in forests, but also in parks and public gardens. And they're not just pretty to look at; they also possess numerous medicinal properties that make them very interesting to eat. Let us explain how!
Turkey Tail, who are you?
Turkey Tail fungus grows on stumps and dead tree trunks, particularly in areas where deciduous trees grow. Its common name is "turkey tail," but scientifically it's called Coriolus versicolor or Trametes versicolor, referring to the changing color of its gills, which undulate in concentric circles. A member of the polypore family, it's a very common fungal species that grows almost everywhere in the world!
A cocktail of benefits
This mushroom has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, particularly in traditional Asian medicine. It is primarily known for its role in supporting the immune system. The polysaccharide proteins it contains stimulate theproduction of monocytes (white blood cells), which are responsible for protecting the body against infections. They are also known to enhance the antitumor effect of cancer treatment by improving the function of T lymphocytes.
And these aren't its only benefits! Turkey tail supports healthy liver function and prevents chronic fatigue by providing the body with energy and vitality. It is also used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This mushroom also helps heal lung disorders as well as inflammation of the respiratory, digestive, and urinary tracts.
Shall we continue? Coriolus—its other name—is considered a source of vitamins B and D and is beneficial for people with chronic illnesses. While not as popular as its cousin Reishi , it has little to envy. Rich in antimicrobial properties, it also helps prevent colds and flu, and its adaptogenic capabilities make it an excellent stress reliever!
* If you have a medical history or are in doubt, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a specialist before taking Turkey Tail.
1001 ways to consume it
While Turkey Tails offer numerous health benefits, there are also many ways to enjoy them! Here's how you can try it:
- In the form of herbal tea, for comforting drinks.
- In powder form, to accompany your salad dressings, drinks, smoothies, yogurts, etc.
- In capsule form, to be used as a food supplement.
And our favorite way to use it: in coffee! In fact, in collaboration with Quebec producers, MushUp** has incorporated the Turkey Tail into its products. Find it in our VITAL range and treat yourself to a break that's as warming as it is beneficial!
**We recommend consuming one to three cups of MushUp coffee per day for a healthier and more balanced day.
