Chaga mushroom (scientific name Inonotus obliquus)is a fungus that grows on a birch tree throughout the northern hemisphere. A simple name or nickname is known as Cinder Conk or Black Mass. The names help in the description of the mushroom’s appearance.
When exposed to the sunlight Its outside turns out to a dark clump of dirt but its inside tissues are different, they are orange in color.
The mushroom can be dried, powdered, and be used to make Chaga tea, tincture, or extract. Alternatively, its powder can be capsulated and be used as dietary supplements.
Researchers, doctors, and other advocates in the world of medicine are more interested in its medicinal value. That is why more research is still in progress.
Chaga Health Benefits
Source of nutrients
Chaga is rich in various important nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that can boosts health.
These are important nutrients needed in body functions including vitamin B complex, Vitamin D, Iron, calcium, magnesium, copper, zinc, potassium, and essential amino acids. Therefore, Chaga has all these nutrients Stay Wild Organics.
It has fibers that help in the digestive system. Fiber aids in maintaining a healthy gut and may also help with weight loss efforts.
Slow the aging process
The Chaga has a high content of melanin that is naturally found in our skin. Melanin, a potent antioxidant, therefore, protects the skin from sun damage. Thus prevent wrinkles, aging, and skin cancer.
Help in Lowering Cholesterol
They contain antioxidants that may reduce bad cholesterol(low-density lipoprotein). Fats found in the blood system are called cholesterol. When it is high, it thins blood vessels creating cardiovascular disorders.
Chaga mushroom plays part in reducing cardiovascular disease when they fight high levels of cholesterol.
Chaga Prevent and Fight Cancer
Chaga mushrooms antioxidants prevent cell damage caused by oxidants or free radicals.
A study from japan supported the result when mice with lung cancer were given Chaga intravenous infusion continuously for over three weeks. According to the researchers, the mice achieved a twenty-five percent reduction of tumor size compared to the untreated mice. There was a sixty percent reduction in tumor size for those mice with metastatic disease.
Lowers High Blood Pressure
Antioxidants found in Chaga mushrooms play a potential factor in lowering blood pressure thus reducing heart-related diseases such as stroke and heart failure.
Fighting Inflammation
Chaga plays a role by regulating the production of cytokines that causes inflammation. Therefore, the mushroom can be used to control inflammation. Chaga helps in fighting inflammation caused by autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases that causes inflammation.
Fight Drugs Side Effects
With the possibility of Chaga mushrooms preventing and fighting cancer and other diseases, there is a chance that the mushroom can be used as an alternative to drugs. Therefore, going the traditional way of healing diseases.
Lowering Blood Sugar
A study was done in 2006 on a rat’s blood sugar. The rat was genetically modified to have high blood sugar. Thereafter, the rat was fed with Chaga mushroom for eight weeks and the blood sugar level went down to normal. Though not enough research has been done on human, the mushroom can be an alternative diabetes treatment.
Supports the Immune System
Research on the mice indicates that Chaga assists in the production of cytokines. (medicalnewstoday.com). Cytokines are proteins that play an important role in white blood cell stimulation. White blood cells are the fighters against all types of diseases. Therefore, taking Chaga means boosting the immune system.
Liver Injury Treatment
Chaga can help in slowing down the progression of some liver problems. Water-based extract of Chaga was able to protect postoperative tissue from a chemical that is known to damage the liver. A Korean research team report shows.
Also, it helps in relieving the inflammation and oxidative pressure that fuels chronic liver diseases.
Important Information to Note
The above does not mean you disregard or replace your doctor’s or health care provider’s advice. It is always good to consult your doctor before changing the prescribed medicine. Seek medical advice from a qualified health care provider before you start or stop any medication.