Popularly known as the "queen of mushrooms" - Chaga, or Black Birch Piepe ( Inonotus obliquus ) is possibly the most historically popular functional mushroom, by its application, in these latitudes and one of the most widely studied mushrooms globally, due to its powerful antioxidant properties. Data show that already in the 16th century Inonotus obliquus was used in folk medicine in Russia, Siberia and some western countries. [1] [2]
Immune system support
"Excess free radicals can cause oxidative stress and lead to several diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, autoimmune diseases and cancer." [3]
Free radicals - unstable molecules produced during metabolic processes or in response to environmental factors such as pollution or UV radiation - can wreak havoc in the body by damaging cells, proteins and DNA.
Chaga mushroom, with its powerful antioxidants, helps neutralize these harmful molecules, supporting the body's detoxification processes. Adding chaga to your diet offers a natural way to combat oxidative stress and promote overall wellness. [4]
A powerful antioxidant
"[...] Thanks to its various chemical constituents, including polysaccharides, triterpenoids, polyphenols and melanin, it has been shown to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects in clinical and animal studies with no apparent long-term side effects." [5]
Chaga has long been used in Eastern European medicine to treat indigestion, pain and cancer. Modern studies have revealed that Chaga has cytotoxic effects against several types of cancer cells, such as sarcoma, lung adenocarcinoma, colon cancer, melanoma, as well as hepatocellular carcinoma. [6]
Anti-inflammatory effect
Chronic inflammation is linked to a variety of health problems, including obesity, arthritis, diabetes and heart disease. Chaga's anti-inflammatory properties can help relieve symptoms and support overall wellness by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. [7]
Digestive system support
"[...]mushrooms are also considered a potential source of prebiotics because they contain various polysaccharides such as chitin, hemicellulose, mannans, α- and β-glucans, galactans and xylans." [8]
A healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall health, affecting digestion, immunity and mood regulation. Chaga mushroom acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and promoting a balanced gut ecosystem, which can help improve digestion and overall well-being.
Conclusion
The chaga mushroom is a powerful testament to nature's miraculous healing power. Backed by numerous scientific studies, this humble-looking mushroom offers countless benefits for the mind, body, and spirit.
Whether you're looking to boost your immune system, protect against oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, or support digestive health, Chaga mushroom may be the key to unlocking your body's true potential.
References:
- Investigation of three lignin complexes with antioxidant and immunological capacities from Inonotus obliquus
- Fungi in Khanty folk medicine
- Isolation of chemical compositions as dietary antioxidant 2 supplements and neuroprotectants from chaga mushroom Inonotus 3 obliquus
- Inonotus obliquus e from folk medicine to clinical use
- Recent Developments in Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) Polysaccharides: Isolation, Structural Characteristics, Biological Activities and Application
- Anti-cancer activity of Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) against dog bladder cancer organoids
- Chaga mushroom extract inhibits oxidative DNA damage in lymphocytes of patients with inflammatory bowel disease
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A Critical Review on Health Promoting Benefits of Edible Mushrooms through Gut Microbiota
