Chaga Tea – All you need to know

A tea made from mushrooms? Sounds strange, but chaga mushroom tea is considered a superfood and has a number of positive effects on your health. In this article, you will learn all about the effects of chaga mushrooms and how to prepare the tea correctly.

The Most Important Facts at a Glance

• Chaga mushrooms have been used in folk medicine for centuries.
• Modern studies support the traditional use of Chaga tea in terms of its health-promoting effects. However, evidence from clinical studies is still limited.
• Potential health benefits:
  • Antioxidant properties
  • Support for the immune system
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Lower cholesterol levels
  • Fighting infections
    
    
  • Prevent cancer
• When buying Chaga tea*,, pay attention to the origin and quality, whereby products from northern regions such as Lapland or Scandinavia are preferable and attention should be paid to sustainable harvesting in order to avoid over-harvesting.

Chaga Tea – Natural Elixir from the Far North

The chaga mushroom, also known as Inonotus obliquus, is no ordinary tree fungus. It grows in the deep birch forests of the far north, particularly in Lapland, Norway, Russia and Ukraine, and has been valued there for at least 900 years as a medicinal mushroom for its health-promoting properties. The amazing substances in the chaga mushroom that make up its medicinal properties are created as a protective mechanism against the harsh, icy climate of Lapland with temperatures of up to minus 40 degrees Celsius. As a result, Finnish chaga in particular contains a high concentration of substances that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The quality and effectiveness of Chaga depend on various factors. Experienced collectors make sure that the mushroom:

• has grown for at least 5 years.
• Grows on trees at least one meter above the ground.
• is harvested sustainably to ensure the protection of the birch trees and the regrowth of the fungus.

Chaga Tea in Folk Medicine and Modern Naturopathy

The Chaga mushroom has a long tradition in folk medicine. In Finland and Siberia, it is used to alleviate gastrointestinal complaints and to strengthen the immune system. The ritual and medicinal use of the Chaga mushroom is deeply rooted in Northern Europe, and its use for various ailments has been handed down for centuries. Chaga was used to treat ulcers as early as the 12th century.

The traditional use of Chaga against various diseases is now supported by modern studies. While preclinical studies have shown some promising results, evidence from human clinical trials is still limited. Nevertheless, Chaga was officially recognized as a medical treatment in Russia as early as 1955. There is evidence that Chaga may have an antiviral effect against various viruses, including herpes and influenza viruses, and thus may potentially be beneficial in the treatment of COVID-19.

Health Benefits of Chaga

Now that we know the origins and traditional uses of Chaga tea, let’s look at the scientific conclusions about Chaga mushroom effects. The mushroom is said to have numerous health benefits, including:

• Antioxidant properties
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Immunomodulatory properties
• Blood sugar lowering properties

In the following sections, we will take a closer look at these specific advantages and what science has to say about it.

It is remarkable that the effects of the Chaga mushroom go far beyond traditional applications and are used in many areas of health and well-being. Let’s discover this miracle world of medicinal mushrooms and understand why Chaga tea is called the “black gold of the north”…

Get Organic Chaga on Amazon. For the easiest preparation get Chaga Powder*. To extract all the good ingredients of the entire mushroom get Chaga Chunks*.

Antioxidants in Chaga

Antioxidants play an important role in our body by fighting the harmful free radicals that can cause cell damage. The Chaga mushroom contains a high concentration of bioactive compounds such as inotodiol and tramentenolic acid, which have antioxidant properties and protect the body from free radicals. In fact, the Chaga mushroom has the highest proportion of antioxidants of all superfoods.

In addition to inotodiol and tramentenolic acid, chaga contains other substances that promote antioxidant activity in the body and can scavenge free radicals. Chaga mushrooms contain over 200 bioactive substances, including polyphenols, which contribute to the antioxidant properties of the mushroom.

Chaga against Cancer

Recent preclinical studies show that Chaga mushrooms may have remarkable anti-cancer properties. A 2021 study found that an extract of chaga mushrooms can stimulate the self-destruction of breast cancer cells by affecting certain cellular mechanisms responsible for energy and growth regulation (Lee et al., 2021). These processes led to a significant slowdown in tumor growth in animal models.

In addition, another study showed that Chaga extracts have a damaging effect on human lung cancer cells by triggering their natural cell death (Baek et al., 2018). This process of controlled cell death is particularly important as it enables the targeted destruction of cancer cells without damaging healthy cells.

Similar growth-inhibiting and cell-destroying effects have been observed in human liver cancer cells (Youn et al., 2008).

A particularly interesting component of the chaga mushroom, ergosterol peroxide, showed growth-inhibiting and cell-destroying activities against colon cancer cells in studies by blocking an important signaling pathway that is often overactive in cancer cells (Kang et al., 2015). Blocking this signaling pathway can slow down or stop the uncontrolled growth of tumor cells.

Significant tumor growth inhibition was also observed in bladder cancer organoids, which serve as a model for human bladder cancer cells, underscoring the potential role of Chaga as an adjuvant therapy for bladder cancer (Abugomaa et al., 2023).

These promising results from preclinical studies suggest that Chaga mushrooms could be a valuable natural supplement for cancer treatment. However, further research and human clinical trials are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of these mushrooms as a therapeutic option.

Chaga for Allergies

Allergies are an excessive reaction of the immune system to certain substances. Chaga can help with allergies by restoring the balance between TH1 and TH2 type lymphocytes, thereby strengthening the immune system. (Source)

The polysaccharides of the Chaga mushroom support a healthy immune system and alleviate allergies by improving the intestinal flora and blocking immune cells that are responsible for triggering allergies. Chaga also contains the compound inotodiol, which can suppress the function of mast cells that release histamine on contact with allergens and thus has a histamine-inhibiting effect.

How Chaga Strengthens the Immune System

A strong immune system is crucial for our health, and Chaga could help to strengthen it. By increasing the production of TNF-α and regulating the immune system, Chaga could contribute to an improved immune response (Source). It is assumed that Chaga mushrooms do not intensify the destructive processes in autoimmune diseases such as Crohn’s disease, but can correctly adjust the immune system and reduce the symptoms. However, this has not been proven by studies.

Studies show that polysaccharides from the Chaga mushroom increase the cell proliferation of lymphocytes in mice and increase the secretion of cytokines, which contributes to an improved immune response. However, it should be noted that results from animal experiments cannot be directly transferred to humans.

As already mentioned, Chaga also strengthens the immune system by positively influencing the balance between the T lymphocytes.

Get Organic Chaga on Amazon. For the easiest preparation get Chaga Powder*. To extract all the good ingredients of the entire mushroom get Chaga Chunks*.

Chaga Benefits for Skin Health

Our skin is our largest organ and plays a crucial role in our health and appearance. Chaga mushroom is believed to improve the appearance of the skin and can be used to treat skin conditions such as acne and neurodermatitis. Chaga also contains melanin, which could possibly have a rejuvenating effect on the skin (차월석 et al., 2010). Chaga’s healing properties are believed to help stabilize and optimize the immune system, leading to a reduction in autoimmune reactions against skin cells and potentially helping in the treatment of psoriasis.

The anti-inflammatory active ingredients in chaga could support skin regeneration. It is believed that the detoxification function of the body can be stimulated through the intake of chaga, which could theoretically be important in the treatment of skin diseases such as psoriasis, as general detoxification could contribute to the well-being of the skin. Testimonials recommend drinking around 800 ml of chaga tea daily to treat psoriasis, especially in the morning on an empty stomach to maximize the absorption of vital substances.

Some users report that they have applied Chaga tincture externally to itchy skin areas and have been able to relieve psoriasis and other skin irritations and quickly stop the itching.

Chaga for Diabetes

Diabetes is a widespread disease characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. The contents of Chaga tea could potentially lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes and increase insulin production through polysaccharides, as well as support the function of the pancreas. Polysaccharides are found in many teas, including the classic teas (Green tea, White tea, Yellow Tea…) and the herbal tea Jioaogulan. Studies examined the effects of the Polysaccharides on diabetic rats and mice. A blood sugar-lowering effect and the regeneration of damaged pancreatic tissue were observed.

The same substance also promotes insulin sensitivity and can increase general performance, so that the insulin dose could be reduced in some diabetes patients (Source). These properties make Chaga a potential natural helper in the fight against diabetes.

Does Chaga Tea Support Digestion?

Healthy digestion is crucial for general well-being. The ingredients of the medicinal mushroom can alleviate inflammatory diseases in the gastrointestinal tract and promote the proliferation of beneficial intestinal bacteria, which has a positive effect on overall digestion. These properties make chaga a valuable aid for healthy digestion (Mishra et al., 2012), (Verhoeven et al., 2021).

Chaga’s ability to improve gut flora is particularly important as there is growing evidence that a healthy gut plays a key role in overall health. From boosting the immune system to improving mood, the benefits of healthy gut flora are far-reaching.

Get Organic Chaga on Amazon. For the easiest preparation get Chaga Powder*. To extract all the good ingredients of the entire mushroom get Chaga Chunks*.

The role of the Chaga Mushroom on Cholesterol and Blood Purification

High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease. Chaga tea could potentially help lower high cholesterol levels. A systematic review suggests that consumption of edible mushrooms, including chaga, may have beneficial effects on lipid profile, including lowering LDL cholesterol and triglycerides (Krittanawong et al., 2020). In addition, chaga is believed to support blood cleansing of toxins, which could contribute to overall health and well-being (Peng Shahidi, 2022).

Chaga may also promote cardiovascular health through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. These properties make chaga a potentially valuable aid to a healthy cardiovascular system and optimal blood health, although further specific research is needed to clearly confirm these effects (Guillamón et al., 2010).

Chaga Tea against Stress

Stress is an omnipresent challenge in our modern society. Chaga tea could contribute to stress management as an adaptogen. Adaptogens are natural substances that help to balance the body’s stress reactions. Thanks to their regulating properties, they could serve as a natural support for stress management (Wiegant et al., 2009).

Chaga adaptogens could support the body in stressful situations by regulating various metabolic processes, improving sleep, regulating hormone balance and maintaining healthy energy levels. User reports describe improved stress resistance and increased inner balance after substituting coffee with Chaga tea, as well as contributing to a strong and balanced outlook on life when taken regularly before meals. These reports are based on individual experience and not on controlled scientific studies.

Does Chaga tea have side effects?

There are no known side effects as long as Chaga mushroom is consumed in moderation. However, one case study showed that long-term and very high consumption of chaga mushrooms can be associated with the development of kidney disease, indicating that caution is advised (Lee et al., 2020). The initial dose of Chaga tea should be kept low and increased slowly to avoid gastrointestinal disturbances. It is not recommended to take more than two teaspoons of powder or two capsules a day.

Chaga tea is not recommended for people who are taking blood-thinning medication or have allergies to certain ingredients. Chaga could theoretically interact with medications, especially those that affect blood clotting, as chaga itself may have blood-thinning properties. If you are taking such medications, you should speak to a doctor before taking chaga. Chaga’s blood sugar lowering properties require careful monitoring in diabetics taking medication. It is important to monitor its use in such cases.

How to make Chaga tea

Preparing Chaga tea is a simple but patient process. Here is a guide on how to prepare Chaga tea:

1. For 400 ml of chaga tea, use 3-4 pieces of mushroom (approx. 10 g) or powder (according to the package instructions).
2. Cook the mushroom pieces or powder on a medium heat for at least 10 minutes.
3. For optimum extraction of active ingredients, a longer infusion time of at least 3 hours is recommended.
4. After the infusion time, you can pour the Chaga tea through a sieve.
5. The tea can be enjoyed hot.
6. The mushroom pieces can be infused several times (about 10 times) until the color of the infusion clearly fades.
7. For further infusions, you can cut the pieces smaller so that the active ingredients dissolve better.

Get Organic Chaga on Amazon. For the easiest preparation get Chaga Powder*. To extract all the good ingredients of the entire mushroom get Chaga Chunks*.

Between infusions, you can keep the chaga pieces covered with water in the fridge. Add the water to the pot the next time you cook. Chaga tea can be prepared in larger quantities and stored in the fridge for two to three days after cooling, to be drunk cold or warmed up later.

Tips for using Chaga tea

In order to achieve the best results with Chaga tea, there are a few application tips to consider:

• It is recommended to drink 1-2 cups of Chaga tea daily.
• Start with small doses and slowly increase the amount.
• Taking Chaga in the form of a cure for at least three months is suggested to achieve optimal results.
• Users report that Chaga starts to take effect after about three months and reaches its maximum effect after nine to twelve months.
• Chaga should be stored dry and in breathable packaging to prevent mold growth.
• It makes little sense to take chaga powder directly, as the active ingredients are embedded in chitin, which is difficult for the human body to digest. The substances are well extracted by the hot water and can unfold their effect in the body

Comparison: Chaga Tea vs. Other Medicinal Mushrooms

There are many medicinal mushrooms with health benefits, but Chaga stands out as a special medicinal mushroom. The antioxidant content of chaga is extraordinarily high compared to other medicinal mushrooms.

Another difference between Chaga and other medicinal mushrooms is that Chaga is obtained from wild collections and is not cultivated like many other medicinal mushrooms. This can have a positive effect on the quality and effectiveness of Chaga.

Where to Buy Chaga Mushroom How to Recognize Quality

When ordering Chaga tea online, there are a few important points to bear in mind. Chaga mushrooms from northern regions such as Scandinavia or Siberia are to be preferred, as their formation of valuable secondary plant substances is favored by the climatic conditions. Cultivated Chaga from China, on the other hand, can be contaminated with pesticides and has a lower composition of vital substances and quality.

Commercial over-harvesting of wild collections threatens the availability of high quality Chaga, so the origin should be considered critically. High quality Chaga tea should have a mild, earthy flavor. Suppliers of Chaga tea should provide transparent information on origin and quality assurance.

Get Organic Chaga on Amazon. For the easiest preparation get Chaga Powder*. To extract all the good ingredients of the entire mushroom get Chaga Chunks*.

Conclusion

Chaga tea is more than just a drink. It is a natural, health-promoting elixir from the far north that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Chaga offers numerous benefits for our health: whether as a powerful antioxidant, as a support for the immune system, to improve skin health or to combat diabetes and high cholesterol levels – Chaga tea has a lot to offer. When choosing Chaga products, however, it is important to pay attention to the quality and origin of the Chaga. Ultimately, it is the combination of centuries of traditional knowledge and modern science that makes Chaga tea such a valuable health treasure.

Frequently asked questions