Yun Zhi / Turkey Tail
Also known as Cloud mushroom, Coriolus versicolor, and Trametes versicolor, Yun Zhi or Turkey Tail is another mushroom with thousands of years of use in China. AND is the subject of an FDA approved clinical trial in California for its use for mild to moderate Covid-19! Click on button below for my Sept 2021 post on that!
Photo: Adobe Stock “Turkey tail tree fungus on a rotted fallen tree” By last19
Traditionally in Chinese Medicine this herb is used for the Lungs and Spleen. It has a powerful effect on eliminating dampness as it invigorates the Spleen (digestive) functioning. It is traditionally included in formulas for chronic cough, wheezing, loose stools, poor appetite, and general weakness.
According to the company Real Mushrooms,
“Turkey Tail mushroom, or Trametes Versicolor, is one of the most well researched medicinal mushrooms. It grows on dead logs worldwide, and receives its name because its rings of brown and tan look like the tail feathers of a turkey. In TCM (traditional Chinese Medicine) turkey tail has been used for treating lung disease, and in Japan, the drug PSK, which is derived from turkey tail has been used to strengthen the immune system when given with standard cancer treatment [6]*. China also has a similar drug called PSP. Turkey tail contains one of the highest amounts of beta-glucans for all mushrooms, which will help keep our immune systems healthy when used over an extended period of time [7]*.”
You know when you get a certain car or dog breed, and you suddenly start seeing them everywhere? Apparently it happens with mushrooms too, even indoors! Yesterday I spied this find at Riverside Grocery - Reishi, Chaga, AND Turkey Tail included! I guess I will highlight Chaga tomorrow!
If you want to read more about the excellent mushroom brand that I carry, check out this post on MUSHROOMS, MUSHROOMS, MUSHROOMS!
Disclaimer: The statements made on this page are based on traditional use and modern research. However, they have not been validated conclusively by Health Authorities. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, but only for educational purposes.