Chaga mushroom tea is an easy and delicious way to boost immune health. Packed with antioxidants and natural compounds that reduce inflammation and boost energy levels, chaga has long been used as herbal medicine in Russia and Baltic countries to treat stomach issues, heart disease, liver issues and even cancer (Salycilates and betulinic acid are two such ingredients found within it).

But for newcomers to chaga, it can be tricky knowing how best to prepare this herbal remedy. A cup of tea can be enjoyed on its own, or add it into other food or beverages such as smoothies and salads for maximum versatility! This natural tonic offers endless opportunities.

While chaga can be consumed raw, making a tea is the most efficient and beneficial method of ingestion. Because its tough chitin walls require heat for breaking down and extracting its healthy compounds. Brewing is usually preferred, though other applications include creating tinctures or adding it into coffee and other beverages.

To prepare chaga tea, start by heating water to about 80 degrees Celsius or 176 degrees Fahrenheit – this temperature should still be hot enough to brew the fungus successfully. Simmer the chaga for up to an hour for maximum bitterness while other may prefer steeping for shorter times instead.

If you are using chunks of chaga, before drying them you must break them up into smaller, palm-sized pieces. This can be accomplished either manually or using a hammer and chisel. Doing this beforehand makes processing later easier as the fungus will have softened considerably, making it easier for breaking apart into powder form for use in drinks.

Chaga tea can be made using either chunks or powder, though if using chunks it’s important to remember that it takes time and requires a long steep time in either case. Some prefer using a slow cooker while others opt for leaving their chunks sitting on the stovetop until ready. Either method produces delicious results!

If you want to speed up the brewing time, dual extraction can help by submerging chaga in both hot water and alcohol for 15 minutes at the same time. This process extracts some beneficial compounds which aren’t water soluble to create stronger tea in its wake.

Studies on chaga extract have indicated it to improve cholesterol levels and decrease “bad” LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream, two benefits which appear promising; however, more research needs to be completed before this mushroom can be considered a medical treatment option.(3) As an herbal remedy and natural health aid supplement for general wellness.