Chaga mushroom has received considerable buzz on social media platforms like TikTok as an increasingly trendy wellness drink, but its roots go back centuries. In Russia and Eastern Europe, this hardy fungus was often used as natural medicine against inflammation diseases as well as cancer. Today, scientific research is supporting many of its traditional uses — from antiviral properties to immune system support to anti-tumor activity.

Chaga contains beta-d-glucan, which increases natural killer cell activity to eliminate infected and early tumor cells. Furthermore, antioxidants present in Chaga help protect cells against damage caused by free radicals; this may decrease risk of mutation and decrease cancer proliferation and spread.

Additionally to its immune-enhancing abilities, chaga is believed to help slow down aging processes and have anti-inflammatory benefits; however, more human studies must be completed before we can verify these claims.

One thing we know for certain about chaga is its powerful antioxidant qualities. Chaga extracts have demonstrated superoxide dismutase (SOD) like activity – neutralising free radicals and protecting cells from damage 1. In addition, researchers at Molecules published research that demonstrated its ability to prevent inflammation induced cytokine release.

Chaga may also offer potential relief against diabetes. Although more research needs to be conducted, lab results have demonstrated that it may prevent sugar absorption by blocking alpha-glucosidase enzyme which is one of the primary targets for medications used against this condition 2.

Chaga can also help lower cholesterol, balance blood pressure, and inhibit tumor growth 3. Nevertheless, before switching over to herbal therapies such as chaga supplements and tea, please consult with your healthcare provider first.

If you are interested in trying chaga, be sure to purchase it from a reliable source and follow the dosage recommendations on its packaging. Please also consult with a physician prior to drinking any form of chaga mushroom tea if pregnant, breastfeeding or have serious health conditions like diabetes, heart disease or kidney issues; as excessive consumption of this nutrient could have negative impacts on kidneys if consumed regularly (up to 20 teaspoons daily may lead to kidney failure 4). For optimal health it’s recommended limiting consumption to no more than 1 cup brewed per day for optimal brewing!