Chaga may get a bad rep for its crusty exterior and large size, yet its dark-skinned inner shell hides powerful antioxidants which may support immune health and fight infection.

Free radical scavengers such as antioxidants can also help slow the signs of aging.2 Before taking this route, please check with your physician first to make sure it’s appropriate.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chaga mushrooms, found growing on birch trees in cold climates, have long been used as natural remedies for diabetes, heart disease and even cancer. Furthermore, their anti-inflammatory and immunity-boosting properties make them highly sought after medicinal solutions.

Fungus contains powerful antioxidants – compounds that protect cells against damage from free radicals that damage them and lead to oxidative stress – while its unique sulfur-containing compound inhibits tumors and other abnormalities from growing.

Consumed as tea, chaga’s antioxidants can strengthen your immune system and aid in combatting illnesses such as colds and flus, according to CNN Chief Medical Officer and host of “Sanjay Gupta, MD.” Furthermore, drinking this tea could stimulate white blood cell production which act as the body’s natural defenses against pathogens in your system.

Chaga contains beta-glucans that have been scientifically shown to reduce inflammation. Furthermore, polysaccharides and triterpenoids present in chaga can prevent inflammation by modulating receptors and signaling molecules.

Chaga extract was recently found to significantly decrease oxidative stress levels among lymphocytes from patients with inflammatory bowel disease, while also encouraging healthy proliferation while decreasing their susceptibility to mitogens’ effects. This finding led to further investigations on its use for therapy purposes and further clinical trials were performed on its use against cancer cells and in mice models of inflammation bowel disease.

Beyond its anti-inflammatory and cancer fighting abilities, chaga has also been found to exhibit multiple antiviral, antimicrobial and antihypoglycemic properties. Most significantly, this fungus was shown to prevent herpes simplex virus entry into human cells.

Chaga comes in many forms, from dried and ground powder for use in teas and smoothies to capsules that deliver an exact dosage. Additionally, tincture formulations or coffee blends containing extract of this plant may also be sold commercially.

As with any nutritional supplement, begin taking low doses (e.g. 500 mg), observe your response and gradually increase dose if necessary. Always consult your healthcare provider prior to beginning any new routine or taking supplements.

Boosts Immune System

Chaga mushrooms offer both taste and health benefits that go far beyond taste. Packed full of antioxidants to combat the damaging effects of oxidative stress and free radicals on your body, chaga fungi boast one of the highest ORAC scores of any food item – making it an extremely potent antioxidant that protects cells while also helping prevent chronic inflammation and regulate cytokine production – also regulates cytokine production, an immune stimulator protein. Furthermore, studies suggest it could possibly decrease inflammation associated with chemotherapy treatment.

Chaga mushroom can help people suffering from autoimmune diseases or chronic inflammation, including fibromyalgia, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties improve digestion by stimulating intestinal motility and producing bile required to breakdown food properly; its beta glucans have also shown their ability to strengthen and reinforce immunity by strengthening white blood cells while improving their functioning.

Chaga fungus contains many other immune-enhancing benefits, including helping your body combat infections ranging from common colds and flus to more serious viral and bacterial illnesses. Chaga’s natural antibiotic compounds assist in fighting infection by inhibiting growth of bacteria and viruses and stopping their spread.

Chaga is an amazing antioxidant that can provide your immune system with a powerful boost without any unwanted side effects. Before adding any new dietary supplement to your routine, however, always consult with a healthcare provider first; especially if taking blood thinners or diabetes medication or pregnant or breastfeeding.

Supports Weight Loss

Mushroom tea may sound unusual, but it’s an effective way to indulge in the superfood trend. Made by steeping whole or ground mushrooms with herbs in hot water for several minutes before straining out any debris, mushroom tea has been said to increase energy and enhance mental clarity while potentially aiding weight loss*.

Though more research needs to be done, chaga’s antioxidants may aid in fat-burning. Furthermore, its ability to suppress sugar cravings was noted in a 2014 lab study; additionally chaga was discovered to inhibit alpha-glucosidase activity (the enzyme used by your small intestine to digest carbohydrates).

Chaga may help regulate diabetes-related blood sugar by providing beta glucans which stimulate disease-fighting white blood cells while decreasing inflammation*.

Chaga mushroom tea can be found both online and at health food stores, where it can be prepared using either powdered dried chaga mushrooms ground into fine powder, or tea bags. You may wish to add sugar as an additional sweetener.

Though chaga tea is generally safe, it’s wise to consult your physician prior to adding it to your diet. Chaga can interfere with some medications (anticoagulants specifically) and cause low blood pressure levels in some individuals; its high concentration of oxalates should also be avoided by those suffering from kidney stones and taking medication for such conditions*.

Anti-Aging Properties

Chaga mushrooms contain powerful antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase. Our bodies naturally produce this antioxidant to defend cells against oxidative stress, but as we age our levels decline; so adding chaga into your daily diet could be an excellent way to maintain an appropriate level and protect yourself from further cell damage. It has even been found to inhibit cancerous cell formation while improving cardiovascular health!

Fungus is most frequently enjoyed as a tea, where its earthy flavors combine beautifully with other beverages such as rooibos or chai spices. Powder form can also be taken.

Lab studies on chaga have demonstrated its ability to inhibit insulin’s breakdown and to lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as well as to possess antiviral, anti-cancer properties and help decrease symptoms associated with autoimmune conditions such as Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Chaga’s unique structure makes it an excellent natural sunscreen, protecting skin from UV radiation and helping prevent sun spots. Additionally, its components may help enhance elasticity and promote cell health; and reduce mast cell activation which releases chemicals leading to inflammation in acne or rosacea cases.

Although additional research must be completed, chaga’s anti-diabetic effects appear promising. A 2014 lab study demonstrated that extract from chaga significantly inhibited alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down glucose within the body – making it a potential treatment option for type 2 diabetes and even pre-diabetes.

Notably, chaga contains oxalate which may lead to kidney damage if taken in excess. One individual who consumed five teaspoons a day for five years experienced renal issues that required hospitalization – hence why it is crucial that you consult with a healthcare provider prior to starting on chaga. They will be able to advise which dosage will work for you as well as possible interactions between this herb and any medications being taken by patients.