Mushrooms, they have been around as long as mankind has been and have been a source of food and medicine for centuries. One of the least known and most intriguing medicinal mushrooms is the Chaga mushroom. Chaga mushroom, known scientifically as Inonotus obliquus, is a mushroom found on birch trees in cold climates. The mushroom itself is not the most appetizing; instead, it looks like a lumpy charcoal growth on the side of the tree, but inside the Chaga mushroom hides profound nutrition and health benefits.
Knowing more about the Chaga mushroom is the key to unlocking the natural health powers it has to offer. Read on to learn the ins and outs of this medicinal mushroom and the benefits of consuming it.
What is Chaga Mushroom?
Chaga is a mushroom that grows naturally on birch trees in cold climates. It grows at a slow rate and is usually found at high, northern latitudes. It doesn’t have any savory taste but does provide a wealth of nutritional benefits. The pure form of the mushroom is black and resembles burnt charcoal, but in its processed form it is brown.
Since Chaga grows on the bark of birch trees it absorbs the tree’s natural nutrients in its slow growth process. The end result is a mushroom rich in antioxidants like polysaccharides and triterpenes, which are natural antibiotic compounds. Chaga has been used for centuries in Siberia and neighboring countries as a medicinal mushroom for its immune-boosting properties and is registered in countries like Russia and Japan as an official medicine.
Health Benefits of Chaga Mushroom
The health benefits of Chaga mushroom are plentiful and include:
-Supporting a healthy immune system
-Promoting longevity and healthy aging
-Reducing inflammation throughout the body
-Improving digestion
-Fighting against cancer cells
-Boosting energy levels
For immune support, Chaga is one of the best medicinal mushrooms and has been findings to be effective against various viruses, bacteria, and fungi. As an anti-inflammatory, it can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, while aiding digestion. Chaga mushroom also releases healthy enzymes as it digests, extracts, and eliminates toxins from the body.
What’s more, as an adaptogenic herb, Chaga helps balance and harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. It works to achieve balance in the endocrine system and may help prevent age-related diseases.
Side Effects of Chaga Mushroom
For most people, Chaga mushroom can be safely consumed with no significant side-effects. However, pregnant women should avoid consuming Chaga due to its effects on hormonal balancing.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Chaga Mushroom
Can I get Chaga from the grocery store?
No, you will need to buy it online or from a health food store.
Is Chaga better than other medicinal mushrooms?
Chaga has less of a “mushroom” taste than many other medicinal mushrooms, and it has a wide variety of health benefits.
Does Chaga really support longevity?
Yes, studies have found that Chaga is effective in supporting longevity and healthy aging due to its dense variety of antioxidants.
Can I take Chaga if I’m pregnant?
No, pregnant women should not take Chaga due to its effects on the body’s hormones.
When is it best to take Chaga?
The best time to take Chaga is with meals or as a tea before bedtime.