Unlocking the Power of the Chaga Mushroom: Ancient Remedies and Modern Health Benefits

2023-11-21 09:50:00

The Chaga mushroom has been used as a medicinal mushroom since ancient times. It is mainly found on birch trees and can also be harvested in Germany. We have all the important information about the effects and uses of the medicinal mushroom for you.

The Chaga mushroom as an ancient remedy

A few years ago he was hardly known in Germany – that has changed. The Chaga mushroom, too Slate Schillerporling or Inonotus obliquus, is an ancient remedy that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. The Nordic peoples and the indigenous peoples of Siberia used the mushroom as Remedies for numerous ailments. In Russian and Chinese medicine in particular, the chaga mushroom was used to strengthen the immune system, to combat inflammation and to treat diabetes, tuberculosis, gastrointestinal problems, lung diseases and cancer. The fungus was used in the form of infusions, aqueous extracts, inhalations or antiseptic soaps. Nowadays, the Chaga mushroom is considered a superfood and is best known for its anti-inflammatory effects.

This is how you can recognize the Chaga mushroom

The Chaga mushroom grows primarily on birch trees in cold climates such as Siberia, Canada, North America and Northern Europe. The mushroom looks like a hard, misshapen growth. He has a characteristic black color and is brittle on the outside and brown and crumbly on the inside.

When harvesting, care should be taken not to completely remove the fungus so that the tree is not damaged and the fungus can grow back.

Notice: Only take mushrooms that you can clearly identify. If you are unsure, leave the mushroom alone or have it determined by an expert (for example a mushroom consultation).

Effect of the Chaga mushroom: These are the properties and active ingredients

Chaga mushrooms are rich in various nutrients and contain total over 200 ingredients. These include B vitamins, minerals such as iron, potassium, calcium, zinc and magnesium as well as secondary plant substances such as polyphenols, betulinic acid, melanin, triterpenes and polysaccharides (sugar compounds). The latter are the most researched. The positive properties of the Chaga mushroom have been proven in scientific studies. These include, for example, its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, blood sugar-lowering, immunomodulatory (regulating the immune system), anti-parasitic, anti-allergic and antiviral properties. In addition, various studies have shown that the Chaga mushroom increases the risk of Cardiovascular diseases reduced, the Annoy protects, fatigue counteracts and positively influences the intestinal flora.

Please note, however, that this is just In vitro studies (studies in petri dishes or test tubes) and Animal studies acts. There are no meaningful studies testing the effects of Chaga mushroom on humans.

This is what the chopped Chaga mushroom looks like. © Adobe Stock

Chaga mushroom – This is how the medicinal mushroom works

We have summarized the chaga mushroom effect on the immune system, inflammation and various diseases.

Chaga mushroom supports the immune system

In a study from 2012, Chinese scientists were able to prove that the Polysaccharide in the Chaga mushroom Proliferation of lymphocytes, which are white blood cells, increase in mice. They defend the body against pathogens and pollutants. In addition, Chaga has been found to increase the production of Cytokines elevated. These act as messenger substances in the immune system. Cytokines coordinate communication between different immune cells. These can effectively fight pathogens together.

In our articles on home remedies ginger and turmeric, we show you how you can support your immune system with the yellow root.

Chaga mushroom for allergies

Allergies arise when there is an imbalance between the… TH1 and TH2 lymphocytes prevails. TH1 cells promote inflammation and TH2 cells inhibit it. The Polysaccharide of the Chaga mushroom are intended to restore the balance between these cells. This supports a healthy immune system and relieves allergies. Since the mushroom is also said to improve the intestinal flora, this also has a positive effect on allergies. This is because certain intestinal bacteria block immune cells that are responsible for triggering allergies.

In the video: These are the best remedies for hay fever

Chaga mushroom for autoimmune diseases

Chaga mushroom can also help with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and multiple sclerosis. The mechanism of action in this case is the same as with allergies: that Balancing TH1 and TH2 cells.

Chaga mushroom for histamine intolerance

The Chaga mushroom is said to have a histamine-inhibiting effect. This also has a positive effect on allergies and helps people with histamine intolerance. In a South Korean study from 2020, researchers discovered that the substance contained in the Chaga mushroom Inotodiol in mice the Mast cell function suppressed, which release histamine when they come into contact with allergens. Mast cells are also lymphocytes and defend against pathogens. However, the results of the study cannot be transferred one-to-one to humans. Efficacy in humans has not yet been scientifically proven. However, those affected report that by drinking Chaga tea daily they can eat all histamine-containing foods again after about six to eight months without having an allergic reaction.

Chaga mushroom for skin diseases and psoriasis

The Chaga mushroom is traditionally used for skin diseases such as neurodermatitis, eczema and acne. There is also a study from 1973 that examined the effect of the fungus on psoriasis, too Psoriasis called, was investigated. This is the only study with the Chaga mushroom that was conducted on humans. 50 people who suffered from both gastrointestinal illness and psoriasis either took chaga orally (one tablespoon, three times a day) or applied it externally (dosage and duration were not specified). The primary outcome was improvement in psoriasis lesions. 38 participants were considered completely healed, eight participants experienced improvement and four participants had no effect.

It was, however no placebo-controlled double-blind study and is therefore not very meaningful. Due to the age of the study, lack of a control group, randomization, and standardized measurement of psoriasis disease progression, further human research is needed to determine the benefits of chaga.

Chaga mushroom can also be used for skin diseases and psoriasis.© Adobe Stock

Chaga mushroom against inflammation

Chronic inflammation is the underlying cause of many diseases, such as atherosclerosis and autoimmune diseases. The Chaga mushroom is said to help to inhibit inflammatory processes and thus reduce the risk of these diseases. These diseases are characterized by an imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Animal and cell studies have shown that the Chaga mushroom Reduce the number of pro-inflammatory cytokines can. Although these cytokines are important for attracting the appropriate immune cells to the site of infection during an infection, they should not be produced excessively in order to minimize the risk of chronic inflammation. Another South Korean study on rats in 2005 showed that chaga extract protected the animals from inflammation. In addition, the scientists demonstrated that the extract also relieved pain.

Chaga mushroom shows promise against cancer

The Chaga mushroom is also considered a promising anti-cancer agent due to its anti-tumor properties. Numerous cell studies have already been carried out Antitumor activity carried out using Chaga extracts. Cells from various organs such as the digestive system, lungs, liver and mammary glands were used. A study on mice conducted in 2020 by Polish researchers showed that the administration of chaga extract Slow down the growth of tumors or even inhibit it, as well as reduce the number of metastases. The exact mechanisms of Chaga’s antitumor effects are not yet fully understood. Experts believe that the anticancer potential is due to the high proportion of polysaccharides in the mushroom.

Chaga mushroom for type 2 diabetes

The Chaga mushroom is also said to be able to help with type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels and… Insulin resistance reduced. Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body no longer responds properly to insulin and has difficulty moving sugar from the blood into the cells. The polysaccharides are also responsible for the blood sugar-lowering effect of the mushroom. In addition, the substances in the fungus contribute to repair and protection Islet cells that produce insulin.

Chaga mushroom for gastrointestinal diseases

Due to the above-mentioned positive effect of the Chaga mushroom on the Darmflora It is also said to be able to alleviate gastrointestinal diseases. The mushroom has been used for centuries to treat digestive problems such as diarrhea. In a Chinese study from 2019, for example, chaga mushroom alleviated chronic intestinal inflammation in mice.

Chaga mushroom for COVID-19

Die antiviral properties of the Chaga mushroom have already been proven in several animal and cell studies. A Russian study showed the fungus’s effect on influenza viruses and a Chinese study examined its effect on herpes viruses. The Chaga mushroom was able to inhibit the viruses and prevent them from penetrating the cells. The fungus has already been used in traditional medicine in Asia and parts of Europe Clearing the respiratory tract used. Its anti-inflammatory effect is said to help reduce inflammation in the nasopharynx. All of these properties give Chaga a promising role in fighting COVID-19 and relieving the symptoms of the disease.

The Chaga mushroom has antiviral properties. This means it could be used in the fight against Covid 19. © Adobe Stock

Chaga mushroom: possible side effects

Due to its high Oxalatgehalts (salts of oxalic acid), chaga can be toxic if consumed in excess, especially in people with pre-existing conditions Kidney disease or other serious previous illnesses. In addition, the fungus can also interact with certain medications. Diabetics and people taking blood-thinning medications should consult a healthcare professional before taking chaga mushroom supplements.

The correct use of the Chaga mushroom

There are different ways to take the chaga mushroom, for example as powder, capsules, tea or concentrate. The traditional and most commonly used form is tea with chaga mushroom pieces.

Chaga mushroom powder and capsules

When purchasing chaga in powder or capsule form, make sure you get as high a level as possible Polysaccharide content. This should be at least 30 percent. In addition, the nutritional supplements should Correct and Betulinic acid contain. These substances only occur in wild chaga mushrooms that grow on birch trees and are not cultivated. Chaga capsules are usually taken two to three times a day. About a teaspoon of the powder is consumed daily. However, there is no evidence of the effect of this dose. Follow the manufacturer’s consumption recommendations.

You can also consume Chaga mushroom in the form of Chaga tea. © Adobe Stock

Chaga-Tee

Chaga tea is another popular way to enjoy the mushroom and reap its benefits. The tea is running out dried chaga mushroom and has a mild, earthy taste. Make sure that the tea does not taste bitter, as this is a sign of poor quality and could be a sign Mold infestation indicate. Normally one to two cups of Chaga tea are drunk per day.

Chaga concentrate

About the Chaga mushroom to be used externally, you can make a chaga concentrate. To do this, boil 10 grams of the Chaga mushroom (about three to four pieces) in 400 milliliters of water for about 30 minutes. The water that remains is the Chaga concentrate. Store it in the refrigerator in sealable jars or glass bottles.

Buy Chaga Mushroom

Chaga mushroom supplements are available in various forms and dosages online, in health food stores or health food stores. Choose a high-quality product from a trusted manufacturer. Since mushrooms are able to Environmental toxins and radioactivity To save, it is important to buy a product from relatively untouched nature, such as Norway, Canada or the north of Finland.

What is Chaga mushroom good for?

The Chaga mushroom has a long history as a remedy in traditional medicine and is used in natural medicine, for example, to strengthen the immune system, to combat inflammation, as well as for diabetes, tuberculosis, gastrointestinal problems, lung diseases and cancer.

Is chaga healthy?

Many studies confirm the anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, immunomodulatory (immune system regulating), anti-allergic, anti-parasitic and antiviral properties of the mushroom. However, there are currently no studies on humans that could confirm the effects of the Chaga mushroom.

Does chaga tea have side effects?

Due to its high oxalate content (salts of oxalic acid), the chaga mushroom can be toxic if you take too much of it. If you already have kidney disease or other serious illnesses, it is best to discuss taking the mushroom with a medical professional.

What does chaga taste like?

Chaga has a mild, earthy, woody, slightly vanilla flavor. If you don’t like the taste of the mushroom, there is also the option of buying chaga in capsule form.

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