ANCIENT WISDOM
CHAGA
(Inonotus obliquus)
Chaga is best foraged, for it's most important components are derived from the bark of its host birch trees.
This enigmatic fungus, resembling a charred piece of wood more than a typical mushroom, has been revered for centuries as a gift from the gods, a source of vitality, and a key to longevity. It forms a sterile growth or 'conk' with a burnt appearance which lends it's name to being a 'cinder-conk'
Chaga is a powerful mushroom which exhibits a wide array of health benefits, primarily due to its rich composition of bioactive compounds like polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and polyphenols. Its most potent compounds are melano-glucan complexes and betulinic acid derivatives (requires alcohol extraction).
Traditionally it has ben used to treat a range of conditions including cancers, viral and bacterial infections and gastro-intestinal disorders.
LEGEND & FOLKLORE
Siberian legend tells of a hunter who, stricken by a grave illness, drank Chaga tea after observing wounded animals licking the fungus on birch trees. Miraculously, he was restored to health, and word of Chaga’s healing properties and divine status spread.
In Russian history, Chaga was widely consumed. One tale suggests that the infamous Tsar Ivan the Terrible used Chaga to maintain his legendary strength and resilience.
One Nobel Prize-winning author wrote about Chaga in the novel Cancer Ward (1967). The book suggested that Soviet doctors were aware of Chaga’s anti-cancer properties, sparking modern scientific interest.
In traditional Chinese medicine, Chaga was known as a powerful “yang tonic,” believed to fortify life force (Qi) and align the body with cosmic energies.
Viking warriors are rumored to have used Chaga-infused drinks to maintain endurance on long voyages in harsh winters.
SCIENCE INFORMATION REVIEW
CHAGA
(Inonotus obliquus)
Welcome to the Fung Shui Chaga scientific research page which connects you to our ever evolving library of research and peer-reviewed papers. Where a reference is provided, you can find the corresponding number in the research references towards the bottom of the page in the 'peer reviewed papers & articles' section.
ANTI-CANCER PROPERTIES
Emerging research indicates that Chaga may possess anticancer properties. Betulinic acid shows wide-ranging anti-cancer activity, including against: leukaemia, malignant brain and peripheral nervous system cancers. [9]
Like other mushrooms, Chaga's polysaccharides show strong impressive immune-modulating activity, which when combined with betulinic acid contributes to Chaga's treatment of cancer including: breast, lung, skin, colorectal, Hodgkin lymphoma, lip, and gastric. [10][11]
Studies have shown that extracts from Chaga can inhibit the growth of various cancer cells, including those from lung, breast, and liver cancers. The mechanisms are thought to involve the induction of apoptosis (programmed cell death) and inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. [4]
ANTIOXIDANT
Chaga is renowned for its high antioxidant content, which helps combat oxidative stress—a process that damages cells and contributes to aging and various diseases. The mushroom’s rich melanin content not only gives it a dark appearance but also provides potent antioxidant effects. Regular consumption may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. [1]
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues, including arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. Compounds found in Chaga, such as betulinic acid, have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, Chaga may aid in managing conditions characterized by chronic inflammatory responses. [2]
IMMUNE SYSTEM MODULATION
Chaga contains polysaccharides, particularly beta-glucans, which are known to modulate the immune system. These compounds enhance the body’s ability to fight infections by stimulating the production and activity of white blood cells, thereby strengthening the immune response. [3]
CHOLESTEROL REGULATION
High cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease. Chaga’s antioxidant properties may help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol—the “bad” cholesterol—while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, thereby contributing to cardiovascular health. [2]
BLOOD SUGAR REGULATION (DIABETES)
For individuals managing diabetes or insulin resistance, Chaga may offer benefits in regulating blood sugar levels. Animal studies have demonstrated that Chaga extracts can lower blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity, suggesting potential as a complementary therapy for diabetes management. [2]
ANTIVIRAL & ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY
Chaga has demonstrated antimicrobial properties, showing activity against various bacteria and viruses. Some studies suggest that compounds in Chaga can inhibit the replication of viruses such as hepatitis C and HIV, as well as combat bacterial infections, though more research is needed in this area. [5]
PSORIASIS
According to biochemist Martin Powell, author of 'Medicinal Mushrooms - the Essential Guide' and lecturer at the University of Westminster, several reports suggest Chaga benefits psoriasis. A Russian study on 50 psoriasis patients, which reported that typically within 9-12 weeks there was a 76% cure rate, with improvement in a further 16% of cases.[12]
ADAPTOGENIC PROPERTIES
As an adaptogen, Chaga may help the body manage stress and maintain balance. Adaptogens are natural substances that assist the body in adapting to stressors, potentially enhancing resilience and overall well-being. [6]
ANTI-FATIGUE
Animal studies have indicated that Chaga polysaccharides can improve endurance and reduce fatigue. Mice supplemented with Chaga showed increased exercise tolerance, suggesting potential benefits for combating fatigue and enhancing physical performance. [7]
LIVER PROTECTION
Preliminary research suggests that Chaga may have hepatoprotective (liver-protecting) effects. Compounds in Chaga have been shown to reduce liver damage in animal models, indicating potential benefits for liver health. [8]
DIGESTIVE DISORDERS
Melano-glucan complexes provide powerful antimicrobial activities, which is perhaps why Chaga has traditionally been used in Russia to treat stomach and intestinal disorders. [10]
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