Chaga is an amazing medicinal mushroom which grows in living trees. Mostly, it grows in all types of birch which grows in the circumpolar temperate forests in the northern hemisphere.
This mushroom is a food-herb and a nutriment, as well as herbal adaptogen which can fight off cancer, strengthen the immunity, alleviate digestive problems, and protect the DNA.
Moreover, this mushroom has long been a part of traditional Siberian shamanism and healing and therefore, often referred to as the ‘king of the mushrooms’.
Nowadays, it is still highly respected in Siberia as a topical skin care treatment and a medicine for inhalation. Recognized throughout Asia, this mushroom is now becoming more and more popular in North America and Europe too.
Continue reading the article to learn more about the one-of-a-kind healing properties that this mushroom offers…
The Healing Properties of Chaga Mushroom
Chaga is consisted of a dense amount of antioxidant pigments and thus, it is different from other medicinal mushrooms. It can help lower the burden of the immunity and it also contains saponins and polysaccharides. This combination boosts the functioning of the immune cells and improves the immune response.
Some of the substances in this mushroom contain potent anti-tumor and anti-cancer characteristics. A lot of them are attributed to the beta glucans and melanin.
The former are the richest and most important types of healing polysaccharides whereas the latter is a DNA-protective antioxidant known as melanin that fights off radiation through the activation of the pineal gland.
Moreover, the phytonutrients in this mushroom can impede the nuclear factor kappa B, a compound which causes healthy cells to self-destroy. According to anecdotal evidence from Russia, regular consumption of chaga mushroom can help fight off cancer.
The Impressive Nutrient Profile of Chaga Mushrooms
When you consume chaga mushrooms, you supply your body with the following amazing nutrients:
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin D
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Phosphorus
- Sulfur
- Silicon
- Potassium
- Selenium
- Zinc
- Manganese
- Copper
- Chromium
How to Use Chaga Mushrooms?
The medicinal chaga mushroom is versatile when it comes to consumption, from dry form used for teas to consuming it fresh or dried. You can also find chaga mushroom in powder form and this is a very convenient option because you can add it in coffee, in lemonade, in water, etc.
Important to Note
- Chaga mushroom can interact with some meds and lower the ability of the blood to clot
- It may decrease the blood sugar levels (good for some, but not good for others)
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