The mysterious Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is a non-toxic, medicinal mycelium with a propensity for birch bark. If you were to spot it while roaming through a birch forest in the Northern hemisphere, you’d probably assume (based on its rather unappealing appearance), that it was some kind of tree infection. But Chaga is a whole lot more than just an unsightly forest blemish.
The chaga mushroom is actually a treasure trove of science-backed healing potential that’s been a prominent feature in folk medicine for thousands of years.
Chaga’s reputation as a powerful natural remedy for everything from gastrointestinal disease to tuberculosis to cancer spans at least as far back as the 16th century when botanical artisans are said to have figured out that it could be steeped as a tea for a variety of therapeutic purposes.1
The historical record suggests that, even prior to this, natural healers in Asia were likely among the first to document Chaga’s medicinal potential more than 4,600 years ago. They observed that the strange fungus has a unique ability to extract nutrients from its hosts and concentrate them into itself. Hence the chaga mushroom’s incredible density of B vitamins, antioxidants, trace minerals, enzymes, and more.
Since these ancient times, science has taken our understanding of Chaga to a whole new level, and the West is finally catching on to what this amazing mushroom is capable of. Just in the last century the Chaga mushroom’s antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardio-protective, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-cancer properties have become more widely known.
Prominent authorities including the International Society for Mushroom Science (ISMS) have declared it to be a worthwhile dietary supplement that may be useful as a first-line nutraceutical remedy. This means it’s a functional food that exhibits significant medicinal and/or tonic qualities from which humans can derive benefit.
How Chaga Helps Support a Vibrant Immune System
You probably already know that the primary means by which the human body avoids disease is through the immune system, a complex network of organs, cells, and proteins that actively wards off foreign invaders. Without an immune system, our bodies would quickly succumb to harmful pathogens like bacteria, viruses, parasites, and malignant fungi, leading to serious illness and eventually death.2 This is why it’s critically important to support the immune system with immunomodulatory nutrition like the kind found in Chaga.
A natural Biological Response Modifier (BRM), Chaga mushroom is rich in a class of polysaccharides known as Beta-D-Glucans that help to balance the body’s immune system response, boosting or slowing it as needed for optimal function.
Chaga also possesses key nutrient compounds that give it the ability to activate an array of immune cells, including lymphocytes, macrophages, and natural killer cells. These cells allow the body to suppress the formation of chronic health conditions like autoimmune disease, allergies, and cancer.
The immunomodulatory effects of Chaga appear to extend even further than this, with investigatory research suggesting benefits in the remediation of both food and asthma allergies, atopic dermatitis, inflammation (including autoimmune inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis), atherosclerosis, thrombosis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), listeriosis, septic shock, and perhaps most prominently, cancer.
While science has yet to uncover every precise mechanism behind how Chaga performs these functions, it’s clear from what’s already been uncovered that Chaga is a powerful potentiating and immune-enhancing “superfood” with vast healing potential.3
Inflammation is No Match for Chaga Mushroom
In addition to Beta-D-Glucans, Chaga mushrooms contain a variety of other polysaccharides that have been scientifically shown to help boost energy levels and promote mental clarity, while protecting the various organs of the body against damaging inflammation. Particularly in the area of cardiovascular health, Chaga exhibits a type of soothing effect that’s been shown to help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. This in turn delivers more oxygen throughout the body.
Patients suffering from chronic pain, neuropathy, and even diabetes are strong candidates for Chaga’s use in this regard, as the mushroom’s constituents have further been shown to help modulate platelet aggregation.4
Heart disease is another area where Chaga has shown pronounced benefits. It contains high levels of a triterpene substance known as betulinic acid, as well as its precursor betulin, that studies show is a powerful weapon against high cholesterol. Researchers from Jiangnan University in China found that a culture broth containing dry matter of Chaga extract exhibited both anti-hyperglycemic and anti-lipid peroxidative effects, helping to break down damaging LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol in the bloodstream.5
Chaga’s diverse antioxidant profile is even more impressive, as it bears the highest ORAC score of any known superfood. (ORAC is a measure of antioxidant potency.) According to research compiled by Tufts University, Chaga has three times the antioxidant power of wolfberries (aka goji berries), which is the next strongest known food. One could argue that this makes Chaga the world’s number one source of inflammation-fighting antioxidants.6
Chaga mushroom contains high amounts of Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD), a powerful class of enzymes that contributes to its robust antioxidant defense against oxidation and free radical damage. Chaga’s natural black pigmentation is indicative of its high content of melanin, a polyphenol-rich “super” antioxidant that protects against DNA damage.7 Melanin is the same antioxidant naturally found in human skin that protects against sun damage.
Chaga and Cancer: A Potential Natural Alternative to Drugs and Surgery?
Where Chaga really shines though is in the area of cancer. Dozens of scientific studies (and counting!) suggest that Chaga exhibits strong apoptotic, anti-proliferative, and chemo-protective benefits. Its full spectrum of phytosterols, including lanosterol, inotodiol, ergosterol, and fecosterol, are among the many Chaga constituents that have been shown both in vivo (inside a living organism) and in vitro (in a laboratory model) to directly inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells.8
In tumor-bearing mice, extracts of Chaga showed significant tumor-suppressive effects, the supplementation of which resulted in an impressive 60 percent reduction in tumor size, on average. The same research found that Chaga helped to increase tumor agglomeration as well as inhibit tumor vascularization, further inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer in these mice.9 Related research demonstrated Chaga’s anti-cancer potential as it pertains to the down-regulation of certain cell pathways associated with cancer, including in colitis-induced human colorectal cancer.10
Researchers from Russia have been actively studying the benefits of Chaga and other similar mushrooms that grow throughout their country and in nearby Siberia, taking a particular interest in how these mushroom constituents affect cancer. Among their discoveries are the therapeutic benefits of Chaga’s bioactive triterpene compounds – primarily those containing OH group at C-22 and a side chain unsaturated bond – which these researchers found have the ability to directly inhibit the growth of a number of cancer cell lines, as demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo.11
Chaga also possesses hepatoprotective properties that are particularly relevant not only to liver injuries but also to liver cancer. Studies have found that even when taken at relatively low doses, Chaga actively scavenges the free radicals that cause oxidative liver injury, effectively blocking the formation of liver disease and liver cancer.12
All of this and more is why one study dubbed Chaga as a premier “natural anti-cancer ingredient in food,” suggesting that it may, in fact, be a safe and effective treatment and preventative protocol for cancer.13
This sentiment is further reflected by David Winston, RH, AHG, Dean of the Center for Herbal Studies in Broadway, New Jersey, and an herbal practitioner with more than 40 years of experience under his belt, who’s convinced that Chaga is the most powerfully anti-cancer medicinal mushroom in existence.14
It all makes sense when you consider the incredible nutrient profile of Chaga, which is virtually unmatched in the natural world. Even with all that we know it can do, there’s still so much more to learn about the wonders of the Chaga mushroom, which is why this powerful superfood will continue to be the focus of scientific research involving functional foods for many years to come.
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Article Summary
The Chaga mushroom is a treasure trove of science-backed healing potential that’s been a prominent feature in folk medicine for thousands of years.
Just in the last century the Chaga mushroom’s antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardio-protective, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-cancer properties have become more widely known.
Chaga possesses key nutrient compounds that give it the ability to activate an array of immune cells.
Chaga is a powerful potentiating and immune-enhancing “superfood” with vast healing potential.
Chaga exhibits a type of soothing effect that’s been shown to help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
Dozens of scientific studies (and counting!) suggest that Chaga exhibits strong apoptotic, anti-proliferative, and chemo-protective benefits.
Just curious if this tea would also work on MRSA instead of antibiotic meds.
I’ve used colloidal silver to cure MRSA within 3 days.
Did you use internaly and how much ?
I started taking colloidal silver in 1995. Have not been sick once since. I don’t know what it does for cancer nor do I have it but I just lost another friend to it. I am curious about this tea.
It works amazing, I drank it colodial silver and also cured Mrsa in a few days
Manuka honey kills staph and MRSA. DMSO MAKES TOPICAL SOLUTIONS TRANSDERMAL.
Are they good when they are older? And more Black?…Do you have more pictures?
Hello ty, had colon cancer 10 years ago complete healing had demo and radiation , couple years ago got frozen shoulder was taking 4 -650 Tylenol every day for pain . A friend told me about CHAGA AND after 3 days quit Tylenol altogether that was 3 months ago I use the chunks of real of the tree I brew in my crock pot for 3 days on medium and do 3 brews on same chunks it may dilute some but is better than water ,1/2 a hand full is 1 brewi
Thanks for sharing your personal experience with Chaga with us, Bruce!
Hello, Just wanted to see how your doing now? I was buying from a young couple in tea bags. Then found out to be careful thins your blood. Cut my hand and took them a little while to get it to stop bleeding. I was taking for my kidneys, etc. but didn’t know how to do the chunks.
I pray your doing well and body healed. I am in process still. Rosana
Hi Rosana – we’re so sorry to hear this.
Perhaps you may have missed the warning in the article that said Chaga mushrooms help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow; and that anyone who is taking blood thinners or sugar-lowering medications shouldn’t use this. Hope Chaga mushrooms have helped your kidneys cleanse and helped other parts of your body.
If you need any kind of advice from a health professional, please feel free to consult with one of the doctors we interviewed in the Global series.
Please note that we are not able to select an expert for you.
We’ve created a page with the experts’ contact info as it was available to us.
Here’s the link to the actual webpage:
http://thetruthaboutcancer.com/experts-info-sheet/
We do have one more resource you may be interested in. During our Live Event 2017 series, Dr. Patrick Quillin suggested contacting The Institute of Functional Medicine to locate a practitioner in your area.
If you are interested, here is the link to search for a Functional Medicine Practitioner in your area: https://www.ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
I hope this is helpful. Wishing you many blessings and good health always!
You should really use the 3x chaga extract that is sold by superior-chaga.com. It’s far more effective than just the tea. Believe me, its awesome! My husband used to be sick all winter long. He has not been sick with the flu, colds, etc., in the last 2 years. I found out about chaga by accident on the internet. I am so glad I found it! Please contact the website I mentioned. The gentleman’s name is David Derouin, he will help you with any questions you may have. He is the owner of this company, and he has done a tremendous amount of research, and he really knows what he is talking about. His chaga is the only doctor approved/recommended.
I have about 25 lbs of chaga I drink it often
Where did you get it
It’s hard to find thanks Lynn
I found mine on Easy!
Chaga can stop seasonal vomiting, I was always physically sick during the winter months at least once, but chaga has stopped this. I combine an extraction of Chaga with Chlorella smoothies, to boost Growth Factors in the gut.
Thanks for sharing that with us Chaga Guy!
Nothing about this article does it not discuss the over wildcrafting of Chaga because of articles like this which yes Chaga is a powerful fungi, however it is also necessary to share with the impact of wildcrafting because of claims like these create a demand where people are gathering in copious amounts to fulfill the demand.
A quote from Robert Dale Rogers, mycologists, Herbalist, author, teacher. Taken from the United Plant Savers article on Chaga https://unitedplantsavers.org/the-two-sides-of-chaga/
“Overharvesting chaga stands means that when the birch finally succumbs and falls down, the microscopic fertile fruiting bodies may not present themselves to release spores and infect another tree. This occurs during a short one- to two-day period of time and has rarely been witnessed.
Without a source of the ability to reproduce, the chaga may quickly enter into a period of scarcity or extinction”
To the author, it’s eise to do complete research perhaps refrenceiing Unitedplantsavers.org and USDA list of endangered species to verify the status of the plants or fungi so as not to create a larger demand. It is only wise to not get all crazed with the newest fad or trend when it comes to the plants and fungi.
I live in northern Minnesota and I’ve been wildcrafting chaga for many years. If you harvest chaga correctly and only remove the outer portion it will grow back. Chaga is a slow growing fungus as are the Birch trees they grow on. The trees themselves are being harvested at an alarming rate. And that has a lot more to do with the scarcity of wild chaga. To not harvest this medicinal marvel for all the benefits it has for mankind and let it just go to waste on the tree, would make no sense at all.
it says not recommended for people who take blood sugar medication. since drinking chaga tea for a couple of weeks, I’ve been experiencing dizzy spells almost daily. it is the first time I read that warning as I once read it was good for diabetes, lowering blood sugar. what is the best explanation you have?
Hi Fredrick! If you’re experiencing negative side effects, it would be best if you discontinued use of the tea. Unfortunately, we are unable to give any kind of medical advice. The best advice we can give you is to consult with one of the doctors we interviewed in the Global series.
Please note that we are not able to select an expert for you.
We’ve created a page with the experts’ contact info as it was available to us.
Here’s the link to the actual webpage:
http://thetruthaboutcancer.com/experts-info-sheet/
We do have one more resource you may be interested in. During our Live Event 2017 series, Dr. Patrick Quillin suggested contacting The Institute of Functional Medicine to locate a practitioner in your area.
If you are interested, here is the link to search for a Functional Medicine Practitioner in your area: https://www.ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
Interesting and perhaps readily available from local birch stands. How does one cook/prepare the mushrooms to make the tea?
Hey Pete,
Try the Triple water and ethanol combination extraction / tincture, recipe here http://www.plantbasedrunners.com/blog/making-a-chaga-mushroom-ethanol-extraction/
It’s very potent. It cleared up a Rodent Cancer (early stage Basal Cell Carcinoma) I was diagnosed with.
For tea simply steep the chunks in hot water. You can then add extra shots of the tincture into the tea!!!
Well I’ve been consuming a dark chaga tea every day religiously for the last 3 years and the benefits are beyond belief. I drink 1.5L a day of dark chaga tea and I harvest, prep, dry and simmer. myself. In my neck of the woods it grows abundantly. Proper harvest technique is very important to not harm the tree and also let the chaga regrow. The Power of Chaga.
How do you prep it?
I’m interested to hear your procedure.
Do you sell the chaga that you harvest
Please describe the benefits
Can chaga be purchased at my local health food store? Do you have a list of sources where this can be purchased?
Hi Tracy –
Thanks for your note.
We don’t have a list of sources where chaga mushrooms can be purchased. But you could do a Google search to find out where you can purchase organic chaga mushrooms in a local store or an online store.
Blessings and love!
I bought Chaga and Reishi when I was in China town in San Francisco. Look for a Chinese medicine shop in your area. Good Luck!
Please feel free to ask companies if they grow Chaga or source it ethically. If they’re a company whose products are often in stock in a large health food grocery I’d be curious about how they’re meeting such high Chaga demands ethically. I’m curious about Vimergy’s Chaga powder and Reishi powder extracts and Host Defense extracts. Hopefully they’ll be good.
I’ve experienced really bad sketchy “herbal medicine” including mushrooms from a couple of Chinese herbal shops and from several practitioners of TCM who refused to tell me all of the ingredients in my mushroom tea “herbal medicine.” Hopefully that won’t happen to you.
Where can you buy it ?
Can anyone use it ?
chaga.ca is a wonderful source to learn how to cook it and to buy it.
fungi.com
I take a baby aspirin every night for blood thinning purposes. It says above to not take if you are on blood thinning medicine. Is Baby Aspirin in that group?
Yes it would be, Jim.
Wishing you blessings and good health!
Does turmeric or boswellia extract fall into that category as I have arthritis? Or could I discontinue those and take Chaga instead?
chaga is commonly used by native americans, especially in the minnesota/wisconsin area. It might be nice to reference how native americans have been using chaga for generations and not just highlight China and Russia.
Good info. Thanks for sharing Laurie!
Nothing grows without a fuel…. I got rid of two serious tumors by eliminating the foods which triggered them. Went to totally raw fruits and vegetables for less than 3 months…and they were regressed. . The first one (1976) was caused by a high protein food; and the second (1988) was caused by a natural high carbohydrate food. Never went back to eating them; and have not had another problem.
Barbara how could you possibly know which 2 individual foods caused your cancers?
What is the best way to take Chaga? I have heard about it before but do not know that much about besides now what I have read which is very intriguing and some things I have heard, but no known experience with. Is the only way to take a tea? And is that the best for colon and autoimmune issues?
Thanks
Hi Maija –
Because of the texture of it we would recommend the tea form of it being the best option.
Blessings and love!
Given that Chaga is both anti-cancer and supportive of the immune system, is it wise to take Chaga for someone like me with a lymphoma that consists of a fault in the immune system, namely, the production of faulty B-cells? Would it encourage more of the faulty B-cells to be formed or would it zap them?
Hi lovely people
I have autoimmune diseases and cancer stage 4 Chaga tea has been a god send to me it’s helped my energy levels and pain levels better than any pain medication it has also slightly shrunk my tumors according to my oncologist so I’ll keep drinking.
Hello Jackie!
Thank you so much for sharing this.
It’s wonderful to hear that Chaga tea has been so beneficial to you. 🙂 Wishing you endless blessings and good health always! ❤️
If you want to know about this medicinal fungus and how to use contact an Indiginous Elder. As these types of medicines have been used for Centuries in north America by Indiginous people prior to Europien contact. Where science just found out about it from research and really dont have answers for the use of Chuga..
Hi, I was diagnosed with malignant lymphoma 8 months ago. A friend told me about chaga so I started taking two capsules a day (bought from a health store) for 7 months now. I also been doing blood and cell tests every 3-4 months and the last two have been normal. I go for more tests at the end of March 2020. My family doctor was amazed on how well I am doing. I finally told him I was taking chaga and all he could say was keep taking it. The cancer doctor has me on a Watch and Wait Program with the possibility of no treatment for 5 yrs. I have no idea how the cancer will be in 5 yrs and didn’t like the idea of sitting and watching my health go down. After a few weeks on the chaga I had energy and felt really great…I am still doing great on Chaga. Hope this will be an encouragement for those who have cancer.
That’s wonderful, Barbara! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us. That will be so helpful to others.
My sister had lung cancer , 2 months to live , 2 cups chaga a day , 3 months later cancer free 🙏🏽👍
I took Chagra supplements, but I did not overdose because of side effects.
⁷chaga has anti viral properties too, as well as anti cancer. Chaga lowers blood sugar level. We produce water soluble freeze dried exrract.
How do I buy this tea.?? Send me an email please