
Chaga mushroom is a type of fungus that belongs to the Hymenochaetaceae family. This parasitic fungus is harvested for its incredible nutritional and health benefits. In Russian folk medicine, chaga mushroom has been used for centuries as a treatment for various health problems including cancer and gastrointestinal disorders. Lab tests do confirm that chaga mushroom may be used as an anti-cancer drug in the future.
The health benefits of chaga mushroom are also attributed to its high antioxidant content. Chaga mushroom is regarded as a superfood. In today’s post, we are listing down the amazing health and nutritional benefits of chaga mushroom:
Boosts the Immune System
Chaga mushroom is loaded with nutrients called Beta-D-Glucans. These compounds boost the body’s immune system by balancing the biological response of immunity cells. Chaga has the ability to boost immunity response only when necessary. It eases allergic reaction caused by an overactive immune system.
Studies found that chaga mushroom makes a natural Biological Response Modifier or BRM. The nutrients found in chaga mushroom have the ability to activate immunity cells to fight off cancer cells. When used in conjunction with standard cancer treatments – such as chemotherapy – the effects of the fungus are even more enhanced.

Reduces Inflammation
The Beta-D-Glucans in chaga mushrooms have the ability to activate immunity cells only when needed. This reduces the risk of an allergic reaction from otherwise harmless triggers. Chaga mushroom can also improve the integrity of the blood vessels to reduce inflammation. Studies show that consuming chaga mushrooms can cut the risk of inflammatory diseases, including diabetes, arthritis, joint pain and neuropathy.
Boosts Gastrointestinal Health
Chaga also helps improve gastrointestinal health. In eastern medicine, chaga mushroom is used to treat all types of gastrointestinal conditions such as peptic ulcer, GERD, and gastritis. Studies show that stomach ulcers are caused by the Helicobacter pylori. Usually, a healthy immune system is enough to kill this pathogen. But if the immune system is weak, the body is unable to inhibit the proliferation of Helicobacter pylori. Taking chaga tea daily helps soothe gastric ulcer by killing off the bacteria that cause these conditions.
High in Antioxidants
Chaga mushroom is prized for its incredible amount of antioxidants. Apart from Beta Glucans, this mushroom is a rich source of polysaccharides, phytosterols, betulin and betulinic acid. It’s also loaded with melanin, and Super Oxide Dismutase or SODs.
Polysaccharides boost energy and cardiovascular health. Beta-D-glucans improve immunity and regulate cholesterol and blood sugar level. Phytosterols also boost immunity and reduce the risk of cancer. Betulin and betulinic acids normalize cholesterol level in the body. These compounds may also reduce the risk of cancer and infections.
The dark pigment of the mushroom is caused by melanin. This is also an antioxidant that promotes a healthy body. Finally, the SODs or Super Oxide Dismutase in chaga mushrooms reduces cell oxidation. These enzymes protect the body from free radical damage, a process that causes death among healthy cells. The result? Healthy skin and organs as well as reduced cancer risks!