Chaga’s history dates all the way back to Russian and Siberian folklore and herbalism, and it was traditionally prepared into a medicinal tea, used to ignite fires by conducting a lit Chaga coal, used as a dye.
Shamans and healers saw the Chaga Mushroom as holding ancient wisdom, as well as presenting a quintessential reservoir of human nutrition, including phytochemicals and rich mineral content.
The Siberians used it to promote physical stamina and attain a long life – it has been recorded by contemporary Russians that in the regions where Chaga was used, there was no record of cancer. When looking at their nearby neighbors, the Inuits (who didn’t use Chaga), it’s fascinating to note that the medium life span of the Inuit was 40 – 50 years of difference to the people from Siberian tribes who typically lived to be 90 – 110 years old.
Traditional Use and Health Benefits
Termed “The Mushroom of Immortality” by the Siberian Shamans and the “Diamond of the Forest” by the Japanese, Chaga receives the name, “The King of the Medicinal Mushrooms” due primarily to it being one of the most incredible antioxidants known to mankind. Harnessing the potential of ancient trees, it draws its nutrients from the innermost layers of the bark on which it grows – usually birch trees.
There’s a long history of human Chaga consumption, extending back for millennia, particularly in Siberia, with myths recounting of a fantastic birch fungus with remarkable health properties. Records date back as far as 1000 BCE in TCM, with it being applied to modulate the body’s life force and to support the immune system.
Chaga Mushroom Benefits:
Antioxidant
Chaga mushrooms are unusually high in a composite called super-oxide dismutase (SOD). This is an enzyme that reduces the damage done to cells by “super-oxide,” the most prevalent free radical in the body. Studies have confirmed that SOD acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, with researchers now examining the potential of it as an anti-aging remedy as it’s recognized that, as we age, SOD levels drop while free radicals multiply. Super-oxide dismutase also supports the body in using zinc, copper, and manganese. Naturally synthesized and with a biological power unmatched, Chaga contributes SOD in a highly bioavailable form, which we can use both topically or internally.
Immune System Support
Along with most other medicinal mushrooms, Chaga is rich in beta-glucans – one of the most powerful and healing polysaccharides. It’s distinguished for its role in stimulating the immune system and decreasing the blood sugar of individuals who have irregular blood sugar peaks.
Alkalising
These potent fungi are one of the most alkaline foods on earth due to their high mineral content: Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, rubidium, sulfur, and remarkably high in zinc. It’s thought that various diseases are incapable of flourishing in an alkaline environment.
Adaptogen
Chaga is a highly regarded adaptogen – adaptogens are a unique group of phytonutrients that help your body adapt to stressful conditions varying from extreme heat or cold, to viruses or trauma.
Chaga mushroom gains don’t end there; they’re additionally anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-aging, and help to modulate cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Typical Use:
The suggested dosage range is 1-2g per day or 1-2 cups of tea per day. It’s recommended that the Chaga be left to brew for approximately 5 minutes. This enhances its effectiveness.
If you’d like to try Chaga Mushrooms, you can purchase by following the link below.
The information provided here is educational in nature. These statements have not been evaluated by the US FDA. Any product referred to in this information is not intended to to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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