Buy turkey tail mushroom extract – An approved cancer treatment in japan

Gulf Spore Produces Best-In-Class Turkey Tail Extracts: An Approved Adjunct Cancer Treatment in Japan

Turkey Tail mushrooms produce several unique compounds that have been highly researched, particularly to help treat cancer. Notably, Polysaccharide-K (PSK) and Polysaccharide Peptide (PSP) are exclusive compounds isolated from Turkey Tail that have been studied extensively. PSK, also known as Krestin, was first isolated in Japan in the late 1960s while PSP was isolated in China in 1983. Since the 1980s, PSK and PRP have been approved adjuvant cancer treatments in Japan, often used alongside chemotherapy. The idea is to maximize the cancer-killing effects of chemo while minimizing its negative impact on the immune system.

How well does it work? Just ten years after PSK was approved as an adjunct cancer treatment in Japan, it accounted for more than 25% of the total national expenditure for anticancer agents. However, not all Turkey Tail products are created equal.

Gulf Spore is the go-to company for Turkey Tail mushroom tinctures, and we pride ourselves on our organic craftsmanship and full transparency. We

• Cultivate our own mushrooms (we do not source them from other countries)
• Use only fruiting bodies (not mycelium)
• Submit our extracts for strenuous third-party testing by an industrial lab in the United States

Let’s explore the fascinating journey of how Turkey Tail mushrooms became modern medicine for cancer treatment!

Turkey Tail Mushroom Extract – An Approved Cancer Treatment in Japan

Turkey Tail mushrooms, those fan-shaped fungi with concentric rings of brown, orange, and blue, have been capturing the attention of cancer researchers fsor decades. These unassuming forest dwellers, scientifically known as Trametes versicolor or Coriolus versicolor, are more than just a pretty face in the fungal world. Turkey Tail is renowned for its diverse bioactive compounds with powerful health benefits. This miraculous mushroom contains more than 35 different phenolic compounds, many of which have robust antioxidant properties. These compounds may contribute to the mushroom's potential anti-cancer effects by protecting cells from oxidative damage.

They're packing a powerful punch when it comes to potential cancer-fighting properties. In Japan, a purified extract of Turkey Tail mushrooms called PSK (Polysaccharide-K) has been approved as an adjunct cancer treatment since the 1980s. This makes it one of the few mushroom-derived substances to gain official recognition in modern medicine for cancer treatment.

The story of Turkey Tail mushrooms and cancer research is a fascinating journey that spans continents and centuries. From ancient Chinese medicine cabinets to modern laboratories, these mushrooms have been on quite the adventure. It's a tale of persistence, scientific curiosity, and the enduring human quest to find natural remedies for our most formidable health challenges.

They've been quietly building a reputation, supported by a growing body of scientific evidence that suggests they might have a role to play in cancer treatment and prevention. It's more than just fighting cancer cells directly - these mushrooms seem to have a knack for boosting our body's natural defenses, giving our immune system a much-needed pep talk in the face of a formidable foe. It's a story of potential, of promising leads, and of the painstaking process of scientific discovery.

So, let's roll up our sleeves and dig into the fascinating world of Turkey Tail mushrooms and their place in cancer research.

In Japan, a purified extract of Turkey Tail mushrooms called PSK (Polysaccharide-K) has been approved as an adjunct cancer treatment since the 1980s. This makes it one of the few mushroom-derived substances to gain official recognition in modern medicine for cancer treatment.

History of Turkey Tail Cancer Research

The mission of Turkey Tail mushrooms from forest floor to cancer ward is a testament to the power of observation and the persistence of traditional wisdom. For centuries, these mushrooms were used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments, including cancer. But it wasn't until the latter half of the 20th century that modern science began to take a serious look at its potential.

In the 1960s, Japanese researchers isolated a compound from Turkey Tail mushrooms called PSK (Polysaccharide-K). This marked the beginning of a new era in Turkey Tail research.

PSK showed promise in stimulating the immune system and potentially fighting cancer cells.

It was like finding a key to a lock we didn't even know existed.

Fast forward to the present day, and Turkey Tail mushrooms have become one of the most extensively researched medicinal mushrooms in the world. There are now hundreds of published studies examining their potential health benefits, with a significant portion focusing on their anti-cancer properties.

Turkey Tail Beta-glucans: Personal Trainers for Your Immune System

One of the most intriguing aspects of Turkey Tail mushrooms is their apparent ability to modulate the immune system. They contain compounds called beta-glucans, which are like personal trainers for your immune cells.

These complex sugars seem to rev up the activity of natural killer cells and other immune system components, potentially enhancing the body's ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells.

But the potential benefits of Turkey Tail mushrooms in cancer research don't stop at immune modulation. Studies have suggested that extracts from these mushrooms might have direct anti-tumor effects as well.

It's as if these fungi are waging a two-front war against cancer by boosting our body's defenses while also directly attacking the enemy.

A landmark study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute in 2012 caught the attention of both the scientific community and the public. The research, led by Torkelson et al., found that Turkey Tail mushroom extract improved immune function in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The study showed increased natural 

killer cell activity and improved lymphocyte counts in patients taking the mushroom extract.

It was like discovering that these humble mushrooms could be valuable allies in the grueling battle of chemotherapy.

This study wasn't just a flash in the pan. It was followed by other research that continued to build the case for Turkey Tail mushrooms in cancer treatment.

Polysaccharopeptide (PSP) From Turkey Tail Exhibits Anti-Tumor Effects

Research indicates that Polysaccharopeptide (PSP), a unique compound extracted from Turkey Tail mushrooms, has demonstrated anti-tumor effects in human breast cancer cells, primarily by stimulating the immune system and potentially directly impacting cancer cell growth through mechanisms like cell cycle arrest and apoptosis (Standish et al., 2008; Habtemariam, 2020).

It's as if these mushrooms reveal new superpowers with each study.

But perhaps one of the most exciting developments came in 2019, with a clinical trial published in the Global Advances in Health and Medicine journal (Standish et al., 2019).

Investigated the effects of Turkey Tail mushroom extract on patients with stage IV colorectal cancer. The results were encouraging - patients who received the mushroom extract alongside conventional treatment showed improved survival rates and quality of life. It was a ray of hope in the often grim landscape of advanced cancer treatment.

These studies, while promising, are just the tip of the iceberg. Researchers are continuing to explore the potential of Turkey Tail mushrooms in various types of cancer, from breast and colorectal to lung and gastric cancers (see references below).

They're looking at how these mushrooms might enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments, reduce side effects, and potentially even prevent cancer from developing in the first place.

Turkey Tail Mushrooms Improve Immunity by Enhancing Our Gut Microbiome

One of the most intriguing areas of current research is the investigation into how Turkey Tail mushrooms might affect the gut microbiome. There's growing evidence that the health of our gut bacteria can influence cancer progression and treatment outcomes (Pallav et al., 2014).

Some researchers believe that the beneficial effects of Turkey Tail mushrooms might be partly because of their ability to promote a healthy gut microbiome.

It's like these mushrooms are tending to the garden of bacteria in our gut, creating an environment that's inhospitable to cancer.

But Not All Turkey Tail Mushroom Products are Created Equal…

Turkey Tail extracts are used in Japan and China as adjunct cancer treatments after the primary treatment to lower the risk that the cancer will come back. Yet, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved Turkey Tail extracts as additional cancer treatments. As with any area of scientific research, especially when it comes to cancer, it's important to approach the topic of Turkey Tail mushrooms with a balanced perspective. While the results of many studies are promising, some researchers argue that more large-scale clinical trials are needed to definitively prove the efficacy of Turkey Tail mushrooms in cancer treatment. It's a reminder that in science, enthusiasm must always be tempered with rigorous skepticism.

For those considering using Turkey Tail mushrooms as part of their cancer treatment or prevention strategy, there are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, quality matters.

Not all Turkey Tail mushroom products are created equal.

The source of the mushrooms, the extraction method used, and the overall quality control process can all impact the potency and effectiveness of the final product. It's like choosing a fine wine - the terroir, the winemaking process, and the care taken in production all contribute to the final product.

The most beneficial compounds are often locked away in the tough cell walls of the fungus, requiring specific extraction techniques to access them. It's like trying to crack a safe - you need the right combination to get to the treasure inside.

This is where Gulf Spore’s expertise in advanced mushroom extraction comes into play!  We use ultrasonication, or sound waves, to break the tough cell walls of Turkey Tail mushrooms to access the desirable compounds and create our potent extract.  

Gulf Spore produces best-in-class Turkey Tail extracts via ultrasonic extraction with sound waves, which increases efficiency while maintaining integrity of desirable bioactive compounds for a potent, full spectrum extract.

Dosage is another crucial consideration. While Turkey Tail mushrooms are generally considered safe, the optimal dosage for cancer treatment or prevention is still a matter of ongoing research.

Most studies have used doses ranging from 1 to 9 grams of mushroom extract per day, but the right amount can vary depending on the individual and their specific circumstances.

It's also worth noting that the effects of Turkey Tail mushrooms can take time to manifest. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs that often produce rapid effects, the benefits of these mushrooms may take weeks or even months to become obvious.

It's a slow and steady approach, more marathon than sprint.

For those undergoing conventional cancer treatments, it's crucial to talk about the use of Turkey Tail mushrooms with their oncologist. As always, consult your physician before consuming.

While some studies suggest that these mushrooms might enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation, there's also the potential for interactions. It's always better to err on the side of caution and ensure that all components of a treatment plan are working in harmony.

As research into Turkey Tail mushrooms and cancer continues, we're likely to see new and exciting developments. Perhaps we'll explore new compounds with even more potent anti-cancer effects. Maybe we'll uncover new mechanisms by which these mushrooms support our body's fight against cancer. Or perhaps we'll find innovative ways to mix Turkey Tail extracts with other treatments to create more effective cancer-fighting strategies.

Whatever the future holds, one thing is clear - Turkey Tail mushrooms have earned their place in the annals of cancer research. From humble forest dwellers to potential cancer-fighting allies, these fungi have come a long way.

In the end, the story of Turkey Tail mushrooms and cancer research is a reminder of the incredible complexity of both nature and the human body. It's a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and the potential for ancient wisdom and modern research to come together in unexpected ways.

And most of all, it's a story of hope - hope that in the intricate dance of molecules and cells, in the subtle interactions between fungi and human biology, we might find new ways to tip the scales in our favor in the fight against cancer.

Mush love,

References

Chay WY, Tham CK, Toh HC, et al. Coriolus versicolor (Yunzhi) Use as Therapy in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients with Poor Liver Function or Who Are Unfit for Standard Therapy. J Altern Complement Med. Aug 2017;23(8):648-652.

Collins RA, Ng TB. Polysaccharopeptide from Coriolus versicolor has Potential for Use Against Human Immunodeficiency Virus type I Infection. Pharmcology Letters 1997; 60(25): 387-387.

Cui J, Chisti Y. Polysaccharopeptides of Coriolus versicolor: physiological activity, uses, and production. Biotechnol Adv. 2003 Apr;21(2):109-22.

Fisher M, Yang LX. Anticancer effects and mechanisms of polysaccharide-K (PSK): implications of cancer immunotherapy. Anticancer Res. 2002 May-Jun;22(3):1737-54.

Habtemariam S. Trametes versicolor (Synn. Coriolus versicolor) Polysaccharides in Cancer Therapy: Targets and Efficacy. Biomedicines. 2020 May 25;8(5):135. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines8050135. PMID: 32466253; PMCID: PMC7277906.

Hirahara N, Edamatsu T, Fujieda A, et al. Protein-bound polysaccharide-K (PSK) induces apoptosis via p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in promyelomonocytic leukemia HL-60 cells. Anticancer Res. 2012 Jul;32(7):2631-7.

Jiang J, Sliva D. Novel medicinal mushroom blend suppresses growth and invasiveness of human breast cancer cells. Int J Oncol. 2010 Dec;37(6):1529-36.

Kato M, et al. Induction of gene expression for immunomodulating cytokines in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in response to orally administered PSK, an immunomodulating protein-bound polysaccharide. Cancer Immunol Immunother 1995; 40(3): 152-6.

Kidd, PM. The use of mushroom glucans and proteoglycans in cancer treatment. Altern Med Rev 2000 5(1): 4-27.

Lau CB, et al. Cytotoxic activities of Coriolus versicolor (Yunzhi) extract on human leukemia and lymphoma cells by induction of apoptosis. Life Sci 2004; 75(7): 797-808.

Iino Y, et al. Immunochemotherapies versus chemotherapy as adjuvant treatment after curative resection of operable breast cancer. Anticancer Res 1995; 15(6B): 2907-11.

Liu WK, et al. Activation of peritoneal macrophages by polysaccharopeptide from the mushroom, Coriolus versicolor. Immunopharmacology 1993; 26(2): 139-46.

Mitomi T, et al. Randomized, controlled study on adjuvant immunochemotherapy with PSK in curatively resected colorectal cancer. The Cooperative Study Group of Surgical Adjuvant Immunochemotherapy for Cancer of Colon and Rectum (Kanagawa). Dis Colon Rectum 1992; 35(2): 123-30

Nakazato H, et al. Efficacy of immunochemotherapy as adjuvant treatment after curative resection of gastric cancer. Study Group of Immunochemotherapy with PSK for Gastric Cancer. Lancet 1994; 343(8906): 1122-6.

Ng TB, Chan WY. Polysaccharopeptide from the mushroom Coriolus versicolor possesses analgesic activity but does not produce adverse effects on female reproductive or embryonic development in mice. Gen Pharmacol 1997; 29(2): 269-73.

Niimoto M, et al. Postoperative adjuvant immunochemotherapy with mitomycin C, futraful and PSK for gastric cancer. An analysis of data on 579 patients followed for five years. Jpn J Surg 1988; 18(6): 681-6.

Ogoshi K, Satou H, Isono K, Mitomi T, Endoh M, Sugita M. Immunotherapy for esophageal cancer. A randomized trial in combination with radiotherapy and radiochemotherapy. Cooperative Study Group for Esophageal Cancer in Japan. Am J Clin Oncol. 1995 Jun;18(3):216-22.

Ohno R, et al. A randomized trial of chemoimmunotherapy of acute nonlymphocytic leukemia in adults using a protein-bound polysaccharide preparation. Cancer Immunol Immunother 1984; 18(3): 149-54.

Ohwada S, et al. Adjuvant immunochemotherapy with oral Tegafur/Uracil plus PSK in patients with stage II or III colorectal cancer: a randomised controlled study. Br J Cancer 2004; 90(5): 1003-10.

Pallav K, Dowd SE, Villafuerte J, et al. Effects of polysaccharopeptide from Trametes versicolor and amoxicillin on the gut microbiome of healthy volunteers: a randomized clinical trial. Gut Microbes. 2014 Jul 1;5(4):458-67.

Serrano L, López AC, González SP, et al. Efficacy of a Coriolus versicolor-Based Vaginal Gel in Women With Human Papillomavirus-Dependent Cervical Lesions: The PALOMA Study. J Low Genit Tract Dis. Apr 1 2021;25(2):130-136.

Standish LJ, Wenner CA, Sweet ES, Bridge C, Nelson A, Martzen M, Novack J, Torkelson C. Trametes versicolor mushroom immune therapy in breast cancer. J Soc Integr Oncol. 2008 Summer;6(3):122-8. PMID: 19087769; PMCID: PMC2845472.

Suto T, et al. Clinical study of biological response modifiers as maintenance therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 1994; 33: S145-8.

Shiu WCT, et al. A Clinical Study of PSP on Peripheral Blood Counts during Chemotherapy. Phytotherapy Research 1992; (6): 217-218.

Toth B, Coles M, Lynch J. Effects of VPS extract of Coriolus versicolor on cancer of the large interstine using a serial sacrifice technique. In Vivo 2006;20(3):341-6.

Torkelson CJ, Sweet E, Martzen MR, Sasagawa M, Wenner CA, Gay J, Putiri A, Standish LJ. Phase 1 Clinical Trial of Trametes versicolor in Women with Breast Cancer. ISRN Oncol. 2012;2012:251632. doi: 10.5402/2012/251632. Epub 2012 May 30. PMID: 22701186; PMCID: PMC3369477.

Torisu M, et al. Significant prolongation of disease-free period gained by oral polysaccharide K (PSK) administration after curative surgical operation of colorectal cancer. Cancer Immunol Immunother 1990; 31(5): 261-8.

Tsang KW, et al. Coriolus versicolor polysaccharide peptide slows progression of advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Respir Med 2003; 97(6): 618-24.

Tsukagoshi S, et al. Krestin (PSK). Cancer Treat Rev 1984; 11(2): 131-55.

Wan JMF, Sit WH, Yang X, Jiang P, Wong LY. Polysaccharopeptides derived from Coriolus versicolor potentiate the S-phase specific cytotoxicity of Camptothecin (CPT) on human leukemia HL-60 cells. Chinese Medicine. 2010;5:16.

Wong CK, et al. Immunomodulatory effects of yun zhi and danshen capsules in health subjects—a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Int Immunopharmacol 2004; 4(2): 201-11.

Wong CK, et al. Immunomodulatory activities of Yunzhi and Danshen in post-treatment breast cancer patients. Am J Chin Med 2005; 33(3): 381-95.

Yang X, et al. The cell death process of the anticancer agent polysaccharide-peptide (PSP) in human promyelocytic leukemic HL-60 cells. Oncol Rep 2005; 13(6): 1201-10.

Zhong L, Yan P, Lam WC, et al. Coriolus versicolor and Ganoderma lucidum Related Natural Products as an Adjunct Therapy for Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Pharmacol. 2019;10:703.