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Chaga mushroom is an incredibly nutritious medicinal mushroom that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It is a powerful adaptogen, meaning that it helps the body adapt to stress and helps the body regulate itself.
It is also packed with antioxidants, which can help protect against oxidative stress and the damage it can cause to cells.
Potential Benefits of Chaga Mushroom (fungus)
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Boosts Immune System: A study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that chaga mushroom extract had immunomodulatory properties, which means it has the ability to stimulate and regulate the immune system.
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Diabetes & Blood Sugar: Chaga can also help manage blood sugar levels which can help people with diabetes and also people who are living a preventative lifestyle.
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Antioxidant Properties: A study published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology tested the antioxidant properties of chaga mushroom extract and found that it was effective in scavenging free radicals, which can cause oxidative damage to the cells. That means it can also help with slowing down ageing!
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Anti-Inflammatory Effects: A study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine tested the anti-inflammatory effects of chaga mushroom extract on mice and found that it was effective in reducing inflammation.
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Liver Protection: A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that chaga mushroom extract had hepatoprotective properties, which means it helps protect the liver from damage.
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Cardiovascular Benefits: A study published in the journal Food Science and Biotechnology tested the effect of chaga mushroom extract on rats and found that it had beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.
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Cancer-protective: we are careful not to make claims around cancer prevention so all we say is potential benefits here. If you look into the research though, you’ll see it’s very positive in this area.
As you have just read, Chaga has potential anti-inflammatory and Hepatoprotection (liver health) and Immunostimulation (immune system health).
It is also a great source of B vitamins and minerals. It can help to improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system.
Taking Chaga
It’s important to never eat these mushrooms raw but rather to take in extract form.
Why should you only take chaga as an extract and not raw?
Taking chaga as an extract is the most effective way to get the full benefits of this medicinal mushroom.
Extracts contain a more concentrated form of the active ingredients and are better absorbed by the body.
Raw chaga may contain toxins and other impurities that could be harmful if ingested. Additionally, the cell walls of the mushroom are difficult to digest, making it harder for the body to absorb the beneficial compounds.
Taking chaga extract is such a wonderful way to boost health on so many levels!
Try some today!
References:
1. "Mushroom Extract Chaga (Inonotus Obliquus) Demonstrates Potent Antioxidant Properties in Vitro and in Vivo" - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3669461/
2. "A review on the medicinal potential of Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus)" - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5477420/
3. "Chaga Mushroom (Inonotus obliquus): A Systematic Review of Its Traditional Use, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Safety" - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6076200/
4. "The Role of Chaga Mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) in Cancer Prevention and Treatment" - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6097572/
5. "The Chaga Mushroom: A Medicinal Fungus with Powerful Benefits" - Chaga Mushroom: Uses, Benefits and Side Effects
Studies to chaga and blood sugar
1. A study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (EBCAM) in 2011 found that chaga mushroom extract had a beneficial effect on blood glucose levels in rats with diabetes.
2. A 2020 study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that chaga supplementation in rats with type 2 diabetes reduced their blood sugar levels and improved their insulin sensitivity.
3. A 2019 study published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that chaga extract was effective in reducing blood glucose levels in rats with diabetes.
4. A 2017 study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (EBCAM) found that chaga extract reduced blood sugar levels in rats with diabetes.
Study links to chaga and cancer
Chaga Mushrooms: Health Benefits, Safety Information, Dosage, and More
Disclaimer: the information in this article is intended purely as information and not health advice. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, prevent or cure and one should always seek expert advice from their trusted health practitioner.