What Is Chaga Tea
Chaga tea is made of a slow-growing fungus found on birch trees in the Northern, cold region. The fungus is non-toxic and a natural health bomb, loaded with nutrients and antioxidants.
Chaga is carefully harvested only from healthy living trees. After that, its dried and crushed into small pieces or ground into powder.
Chaga tea is discussed in Chinese medicine thousands of years ago, but it originated in Siberia. The name comes from the Russian word for mushroom. Thousands of years ago, people drank, inhaled, and applied Chaga tea onto their skin to soak up the nutrients. Words about the results of the tea soon spread out to the Baltic region and Eastern Europe.
May Promote Cognitive Function
Once again, the potential effects of Chaga tea on cognition come from animal studies on the mushroom.
In one study, an extract of Chaga was given to mice with amnesia for seven days.
Based on cognitive tests using a maze and passive avoidance tests, Chaga significantly improved the learning and memory of the amnesic mice .
The researchers stated that their findings signify the beneficial impacts that Chaga could have on higher brain functions.
However, equivalent research in humans is necessary to confirm these potential benefits.
su_note note_color=#F4cfcf text_color=#000000]Key Point: Chaga tea could potentially improve cognitive function.
Final Thoughts: What Does Chaga Tea Taste Like
Everyones palate is different, so defining what does Chaga tea taste like is complicated. If youre a fan of smooth, earthy, mildly bitter flavors, youll love Chaga tea. If youre not, you can mix it with a variety of other herbs and spices! Dont miss out on the many benefits Chaga provides in just one cup a day.
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Chaga Mushrooms Are Claimed To Have Anti
Product containing chaga mushroom extract are often promoted as offering anti-aging effects, from healthier skin to a reduced risk of developing certain aging-related diseases.
Most of these claims stem from the antioxidant content of chaga mushrooms. As antioxidants are linked to reduced free radical damage, many chaga mushroom proponents claim that the antioxidant content of chaga mushroom extract gives it anti-aging properties.
There is some evidence that chaga mushroom may help in preventing cellular damage, which weve covered above in our section on chaga mushrooms potential anti-cancer effects.
However, theres no direct scientific evidence to show that drinking chaga mushroom tea, taking chaga mushroom supplements or using any other chaga mushroom products will slow down the aging process or prevent aging-related diseases from developing.
As such, its best to take these claims with a grain of salt for now, at least until more research is carried out to explore the relationship between chaga and the aging process.
Can Help Fight Cancer
Several animal and test-tube studies have proven that Chaga prevents and slows cancer growth in mice and human liver cells. This is partially due to the high content of antioxidants, especially triterpene which, when used in concentrated doses, kills cancer cells. However, more human studies are needed to confirm the anticancer effect of Chaga.
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Alzheimer’s Arthritis And Als
R. Culter of the NIH discovered that superoxide dismutase levels are greatly correlated with a long and vigorous life.
Simply put, the species with the highest levels lived the longest. For example the tortoise has the highest levels than any other living creature. Trees themselves exemplify this with the highest levels which enable them to live 4,000 years or longer.
Simply consuming oxygen to survive leaves behind by-products which contribute to aging and disease. Namely superoxide radicals, hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl.
SOD converts these radicals back into oxygen and water molecules thus retarding the decay and aging of healthy cells. In comparison to dietary supplements like vitamin C, SOD is 3,500 times more potent at reducing these radicals.
Eating increases the production of free radicals which is why in some cases fasting can aid the body in fighting disease.
Few will consider fasting as a regular part of their health regime. Consuming Chaga Mushroom Tea or chaga extracts daily can help to achieve the same results.
A lack of superoxide dismutase in the human brain is associated with Lou Gehrig’s Syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease.
It has been found that people with arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis have low SOD levels. Chaga helps to reduce inflammation which can help prevent such afflictions from flaring and possibly reverse them.
Maintaining a healthy diet rich in beta glucans and SOD can increase our ability to repel viruses.
Mushrooms SOD per gram
Has Superior Antioxidant Power
Free radicals are by-products of the many chemical reactions that take place in our cells every day. These unstable ions can cause a domino effect of oxidative stress that ages our cells and damages body tissues. Antioxidants in our diet are believed to counteract the aging effects of free radicals.
Nutritional scientists measure the antioxidant capacity of foods by their Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity . Chaga has the highest ORAC value of all the functional mushrooms and a higher value than most foods. As such, regular intake of chaga tea may help to support the body in counteracting free radical damage.
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Effect On Colon Cancer
- In an experimental study done by Adbiotech Co. Ltd, and Kongju National University in Korea on HT-29 human colon cancer cells, they found that the ethanol extract of Chaga mushroom inhibited cell progression in HT-29 human colon cancer cells, suggesting that this mushroom may be a potential natural anti-cancer ingredient that can be explored in the food and/or pharmaceutical industry post validation in humans.
- An experimental study done by Daegu University in Korea found that the hot water extract of Chaga mushroom exerted inhibitory activity against the proliferation of human HT-29 colon cancer cells.
- In an experimental and animal study done by Gachon University, Chung-Ang University, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, Gangneung Institute, Daejeon University and National Cancer Center-Goyang-si in Korea, they found that ergosterol peroxide suppressed the proliferation of colorectal cancer cell lines and effectively inhibited colitis-associated colon cancer in Azoxymethane /Dextran sulfate sodium treated mice.
How Much Chaga Should You Drink
If you are an absolute fungus-tea amateur, we suggest starting with 1 teaspoon of tea per cup and consuming only one cuppa per day. Once you start experiencing all the benefits, you can slowly increase your dose to two and eventually three cups per day.
More than three cups may seem like a healthy thing to do, but it is actually the opposite. Filling your body with too much Chaga will only make it hard for you to absorb all the nutrients and healthy extracts, so you might as well be drinking warm water.
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Chaga Tea To Drink Before Bed
What Can I Include in My Evening Chaga Tea?
Choose calming teas that already have a reputation for promoting rest. Some also help relieve muscle tension and headaches.
Restful teas can include peppermint, chamomile. Peppermint is documented as a reliever of tension and can help a person relax before bed time.
Chamomile has a history as a sleep aid. It is also said to promote a calmness at any time of the day.
Should I Induce Sleep?
Everyone is different. Some may find herbal remedies such as valerian and the like affect mood and have other negative outcomes for them as individuals. Dont forget about regular old fashioned chaga tea. Revered for its earthy taste it remains caffeine an excellent free way to unwind all on its own.
Coupled with inherent health assisting compounds, this ancient healer could be the way to go.
Chaga proposes another alternative: Chaga Mushroom Tea.
Chaga Mushroom Is Rich In Vitamins Minerals And Nutrients
One of the most common claims about the chaga mushroom is that its rich in vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients.
For the most part, these claims are true. Chaga is extremely rich in antioxidants, many of which may have health benefits. It also contains reasonable quantities of several important B-complex vitamins and essential minerals.
In a 2005 study, researchers found that some extracts of the chaga mushroom can have strong antioxidant effects, including the ability for the polyphenolic extract of chaga to protect cells from oxidative stress.
As for vitamins and minerals, chaga mushrooms are rich in B-complex vitamins, vitamin D and several minerals, including potassium, zinc, iron, calcium and magnesium. Chaga mushrooms are also a great source of dietary fiber, which is linked to a broad range of health benefits.
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Health Benefits Of Chaga Mushroom
1. Relief from Oxidative Stress
The antioxidant concentration of Chaga is statistically unrivaled among naturally occuring foods. Its 45x higher than acai berries, 80x higher than pomegranates, and 1,300x higher than blueberries. Almost 1,300 times that of blueberries! Antioxidants are natural or man-made substances that prevent or delay cell damage or cell death from highly reactive molecules called free radicals, or toxic byproducts of metabolism. Our bodies need a proper balance of antioxidants and free radicals however, when this balance is disrupted, this can lead to a state of oxidation stress. Antioxidants are especially important in counteracting the damaging effects of free radicals and are found in many foods including fruits, vegetables and wild mushrooms.
2. Heightened Energy Levels
Chaga is rich in polysaccharides, which help our body to convert food into usable energy, leaving us with a more enduring & sustained mental energy. Not only does this make you want to start organizing your closet… But it actually helps to lose weight, too! Its no coincidence that I decided to build myself a business after drinking chaga!
3. Cell Regeneration
Chaga is high in Beta Glucans, which may promote white blood cell activation and catalyze the growth of healthy new skin cells. This is especially true when Chaga is used topically, for example in a lotion or soap.
4. Skincare Supplement
5. Chaga is an Adaptogen
6. Chaga & Cancer
Reported Side Effects Of Chaga
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Chaga Appears To Stimulate Immune Response
Research on Chaga shows potential immune system-enhancing effects.
Both cell culture and animal studies show that compounds within the mushroom have immunostimulating activity .
A strong immune response is important for the body to fight infection, viruses, and bacteria.
Therefore, this could be a potential benefit if research in humans shows the same immune upregulation activity.
su_note note_color=#F4cfcf text_color=#000000]Key Point: Laboratory and animal studies suggest that Chaga mushrooms may strengthen immune response. At present, there is no equivalent research in human participants.
Chaga Mushrooms: Antioxidant Gold
Chaga mushrooms may look like burnt charcoal on the outside, but on the inside? Thats where the real magic is!
Chaga mushrooms, also known as black gold due to its cork-like orange tissue, are known for their antioxidant content. In fact, they have one of the highest if not THE highest antioxidant content of any other food. Chaga mushrooms have an Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity value of 146,700.
According to the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, a Chaga polysaccharide has strong antioxidant activity for scavenging free radicals. But what does that mean?
First, we need to understand what free radicals are. Free radicals are molecules are naturally produced in the body or through exposure to chemicals or environmental agents, such as pollution.
Because free radicals have a single, unpaired electron, theyre reactive and unstable. Theyll seek out other molecules to either take away an electron or give them their extra electron, which creates more free radicals. As a result, free radicals can cause damage and destroy our cells and DNA.
When too many free radicals are produced, thats when oxidative stress occurs. According to Dr. Joel Fuhrman, oxidative damage contributes to aging of our body and diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
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Supports Healthy Blood Sugar And Lipids
Research studies with lab mice have shown that the polysaccharides in chaga support healthy blood sugar and lipid levels. Including chaga tea in your daily routine may lead to a healthier metabolic balance.
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Note: Through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances, chaga may have an anticoagulant effect and help to lower blood pressure and blood sugar. People who are taking medication for high blood pressure, diabetes, or a clotting disorder should consult their healthcare provider before making this functional mushroom part of their routine. Its unique benefits could have an additive effect on their prescription medication. In addition, chaga is high in oxalates. Consumption of large amounts of oxalates, also found in spinach, beets, and dates, may contribute to gout and kidney stones. Check with your doctor if you have experienced either of these conditions. |
Massive Chaga Mushroom Health Benefits You Need To Know About
Chaga has an ever-growing reputation as one of the most health-giving foods on the planet.
So it is easy to understand why there has been such an increasing interest into what exactly the health benefits of the Chaga mushroom are.
While Chaga is often referred to as the King of Mushrooms, lets face it, the Chaga mushroom would not fare well in a food beauty contest.
However, beneath that gnarled earthy exterior lies a treasure trove of natural goodness black gold as the Russians call it.
So what is the Chaga mushroom good for exactly? Im glad you asked, because this is what you are about to discover in this article. Below I have outlined the 5 main health benefits of the Chaga mushroom that you need to know about.
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Boosts Your Immune System
Chaga has a reputation of being a natural immunity booster, which has been the subject of several different studies.
The results of these studies on Chaga suggest that this tree mushroom actually promotes the formation of specialised proteins which stimulate white blood cells. These are essential for fighting harmful bacteria and viruses.
Also, just like other edible mushrooms, Chaga contains a wealth of important nutrients. These include, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, phosphorus. All of these nutrients contribute to your overall health and give your body the fuel it needs to thrive.
Why Drinking Chaga Tea Is Good For You
You may not have heard about it before, but Chaga originates from Chaga mushrooms .
These mushrooms dont look like normal mushrooms they have a burnt charcoal appearance due to the high levels of melanin contained within them, they feel woody rather than soft, and some people even use them to start fires!
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A Very Powerful Antioxidant
When it comes to potent antioxidant superfoods, chaga has few equals. Superoxide dismutase is present in chaga in substantial quantities. SOD efficiently neutralizes the damage done by free radicals, protects against disease and slows down the aging process.
Studies have linked low levels of SOD with declining health and decreased lifespan. Diet is the best way to increase SOD levels and compared with other foods, chaga is an excellent source.
In the ORAC scale a scale which was designed to measure the ability of food to deal with oxidative stress and absorb free radical damage, chaga has the highest rating.
It has up to 50 times more SOD enzymes than fruit juices, leafy greens, truffles, and seaweed. Chagas incredible ability to combat oxidative stress makes it a powerful ally in the fight against aging, heart disease and cancer.
Traditional Uses Of Chaga
The chemicals and processes that help the birch tree are also of great value to human health and chaga has been used for centuries and possibly even thousands of years by various cultures familiar with its benefits.
Indigenous Siberians ground it down and added it to their stews and soups to boost endurance and stave off degenerative diseases.
It has been observed that Inuit Siberians had significantly greater life spans than Inuit from regions where they did not use chaga.
Siberians consuming Chaga also appear to have lower rates of cancer.
In Eastern Europe, chaga has traditionally been used as a treatment for skin conditions like eczema and respiratory disorders like bronchitis. Traditional Chinese and Korean practitioners have also made use of chaga since ancient times, and it remains popular in Asian medicine to this day.
Chaga is significant in ethnomycology, forest ecology, and increasingly in pharmacognosy. Its long-term human use and cultural eastern European and Russian acceptance should awaken serious researchers to its potential as a reservoir of new medicines, and as a powerful preventive ally for protecting DNA. Paul Stamets
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Reported Chaga Mushroom Benefits
Now we know what chaga mushroom is, what it looks like, and how its been used throughout history. But how do people use it today, and why is this mushroom tea so beneficial?
Energy Boost
If you want an energy boost to get you up in the morning or get you ready to focus for a long day at work without risking the crash and caffeine-addiction that comes with drinking coffee, then chaga mushroom tea could be your best bet! In fact, the energy boost you can get from a chaga mushroom tea is perhaps what it’s most well-known for.
In one study performed on mice, scientists saw that the animals given chaga mushroom had longer physical endurance and fatigued less quickly compared to mice not given any of the mushroom .
Another study showed that chaga mushroom could help boost the concentration of a molecule called AMPK, which is a critical part of energy pathways in the body. They hypothesize that this could be a factor in chagas awesome energy boosting capabilities .
Nutrient Density
Chaga mushrooms are packed with vitamins, minerals, and other healthful compounds that can bring a number of benefits, including:
- B vitamins
- Selenium
- Copper
All of these compounds are essential parts of your everyday diet that you can now get from a delicious cup of Chaga Chai!
Immunity
All of those amazing nutrients and components found within the chaga mushroom can come together to provide some amazing benefits to your immune system.