Since learning about mycotherapy, I have developed a keen interest in it. As an industry professional in healthcare, I have always been sceptical of exaggerated claims made about natural remedies. Fortunately, I have access to research papers from reputable sources and academic institutions.
I have conducted research on the properties of turkey tail since the individual who introduced me to mycotherapy suggested its potential anti-cancer properties. Consequently, I recommended it to my father, who resides abroad and was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Unbeknownst to me, he had been engaging in reckless behaviour. Initially, he commenced with 500mg daily and experienced no discernible effects. Subsequently, he increased the dosage to 1000mg daily, where he began to feel better but could not pinpoint the cause. Finally, he increased the dosage to 1500mg daily, and my mother informed me that he had regained his libido (he is nearly 80 years old).
In the interim, he was followed up by a general practitioner who conducted blood tests. His prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level decreased from 32 to 24 within two months (a normal PSA level for his age should range between 2 and 4). The doctor informed him that his current regimen appeared to be effective. He was also taking other supplements, so I would not exclude the possibility that the turkey tail mushroom alone was responsible for his improvement. However, I can confirm that when I informed him, unfortunately, that since it was a natural remedy, he could increase the dosage if he desired. Consequently, he did so, unfortunately for me. Following an increase to nearly 3500mg per day, he developed a yeast infection in the bladder, which led to urinary sepsis and necessitated his admission to the hospital. He was administered intravenous antibiotics and a catheter, which he retained for nearly six months. The hospital referred him for radiotherapy because he declined chemotherapy and commenced long-acting oestrogen injections, which brought his PSA level to 2. He has since completed his radiotherapy, continues a maintenance dose of 500mg twice daily of turkey tail, and is now in remission. The positive conjunctional effect of turkey tail was evident on his skin. He had numerous skin tags on his eyelids, face, and arms, which all disappeared when he began taking turkey tail. While I am uncertain about the exact mechanism of action of turkey tail, aside from facilitating the apoptosis of cancer cells, it has, to date, demonstrated the ability to prolong at least one person’s life by improving their overall health. In my opinion, a maintenance dose of turkey tail, without excessive consumption, should be capable of enhancing one’s overall immune system. However, excessive use could potentially deteriorate it. Moderation is key in this regard.
