In Russia, chaga is known as a gift from God. So a very merry unbirthday to you as we learn about this amazing mushroom (unless it is your birthday, in which case, happy birthday!)
What is Chaga?
With all the superfood fads out there these days, you may be wondering to yourself, “What’s all this buzz about chaga?” Known in Russia as “a gift from God,” this amazing mushroom is found growing on live birch trees, mainly in Siberia, Asia, and other Northern climates. It is touted as a high-powered immunomodulator and adaptogen, meaning that it not only boosts your immune system, but it also comes to the aid of any system in the body that may be lacking vitality and proper function. It is one of the richest sources of antioxidants on the planet, being extremely high in enzyme SOD which prevents premature aging and boasts being anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, anti-tumor, and anti-bacterial.
With all of these amazing disease fighting and health protecting properties, it is no wonder that many people are discovering the amazing benefits of chaga!
A Powerful Adaptogen
Although there is much to be discussed in terms of the health-promoting effects of chaga, let’s focus in on one of the most relevant benefits that this mushroom provides as it pertains to an increasingly stress-driven and fatigue-burdened society. As an adaptogen, taking chaga as a tea or extract in powder or tincture form can have a powerful effect on the body’s delicate balance and the interplay between organ systems. Because of chaga’s incredible ability to balance and support the body, it has long been hailed as an anti-aging tonic by Russian, Asian, and other Eastern cultures. Scientific research has listed chaga as one of the top adaptogens on the planet, also evidenced by its positive effects on performance and overall well-being of those consuming the mushroom long term. We can make use of this wonderful life-enhancing mushroom by treating mild fatigue to full-on adrenal burnout.
Chaga’s Effect on Stress
It’s safe to say that as a whole, the general population is affected to some degree by the ill effects of stress, whether that be from work, home, or other areas of life. The demands of everyday life can be overwhelming, leaving an individual depleted in every sense of the word. Chaga can be of much benefit in such a situation as it replenishes on a cellular level. Not only does chaga provide antioxidants as before-mentioned, but it also assists in detoxifying the liver and eliminating toxins from the body, thus increasing the metabolic process and allowing your cells to function more efficiently. As an adaptogen, there are no stimulating effects of taking chaga, yet it provides a steady source of energy to users who build upon use, meaning, that taken daily as a tonic it will continue to work on the body and address each layer needed to bring balance, without any harmful side effect. It is completely non-toxic and provides a grounding energy which can be felt on a deep cellular level. This is due largely in part to chaga’s ability to inhibit oxidative damage to DNA and protection against other free radicals. Less stress on the cells over time will lead to a noticeable difference in an individual’s overall well-being, such as noticeable emotional stability, physical stamina, and mental clarity, all of which help combat the negative effects of a constantly driven world.
Nourishing Nutrients
What is more, chaga provides high levels of many key nutrients that nourish the adrenal glands and the endocrine system as a whole. One of the key nutrients for adrenal healing, pantothenic acid, is found in high amounts in chaga. It is also high in zinc, iron, copper, and manganese, all of which stimulate SOD and provide antioxidant value. Chaga also contains a lanosterol, a precursor to human cholesterol, which supports the endocrine system by rebuilding cell membranes and providing the building blocks needed for optimal functioning. As with all adaptogens, give at least two months of consistent use to see a noticeable difference in energy levels and overall wellbeing.
Want a tasty, fun way to try chaga and reap the benefits of this incredible fungi? Try this Chaga Chia Pudding, complete with protein, fats, and a complex sweet-and-earthy flavor that will have you coming back for seconds.
