Chaga
Chaga mushrooms (scientifically known as Inonotus obliquus) are distinctive large, black fungi primarily found as parasites on birch trees in cooler northern regions of Asia, Europe, and North America. True Chaga specimens grow exclusively on Siberian birch trees and are harvested from the wild forest when they are at least a decade old. Modern research has unveiled the wealth of health benefits associated with Chaga. It is renowned for its rich content of beta-glucan polysaccharides and for its time-honored reputation for combating inflammation, regulating blood sugar levels, reducing blood pressure, alleviating arthritis symptoms, and potentially slowing the progression of cancer.
Scientific analyses have identified more than 200 bioactive molecules in Chaga – many of which contribute to human health. These include polysaccharides, melanin, triterpenes, benzoic acid derivatives, ergosterol, ergosterol peroxide, sesquiterpene, and hispidin. Among these, polysaccharides are the primary active compounds in Chaga. Polysaccharides are nutrients that strengthen, activate, and balance the immune system.
Additionally, Chaga is recognized as a potent source of melanin complex. Melanins, which are responsible for determining the color of our skin, hair, and the iris of our eyes, play a crucial role in brain health, DNA repair, maintaining mitochondrial health, regulating cell metabolism, and shielding us against the harmful effects of light and radiation. Notably, melanins derived from mushrooms are credited for their strong anti-inflammatory properties, stemming from their antioxidant qualities and gene-protective characteristics (1,2). Moreover, melanins can reduce the oxidation of fatty acids and minimize damage to cell membranes, making them highly promising for promoting skin, brain, and eye health (3,4).
Chaga growing on birch trees also contains betulinic acid and its precursor, betulin. Both are triterpenes, natural plant compounds with prominent antioxidant properties. These triterpenes demonstrate anti-ulcer, anti-gastritis, and immunomodulatory effects. Today’s science confirms Chaga’s ability to help regulate the gut’s microbiome, further demonstrating its historically acclaimed gastroprotective properties, as well as appearing to regulate the release of certain cytokines (signaling cells) involved in the body’s natural inflammatory response to injury or infection (5).
Supercharged Antioxidants
Chaga’s remarkable antioxidant properties are attributed to its large amount of “high molecular weight phenolic pigments”, which are categorized as the melanin complex. Offering a wide range of health benefits, melanin serves as a potent antioxidant and genoprotective complex, which is crucial for various bodily functions, especially in the brain and skin.
At a cellular level, Chaga’s diverse range of bioactive molecules showcases its ability to function as potent free-radical scavengers. These integral compounds contribute to the protection of DNA health, cellular signaling, and apoptosis by shielding cells from oxidative stress-induced damage. In fact, one study illustrated that human blood cells pretreated with Chaga mushroom extracts (before being exposed to the free radical H202) exhibited 40% less DNA damage compared to cells that had not undergone this pretreatment (6).
Brain Health
Chaga’s profound black color is attributed to the presence of the darkest pigments known, the melanin pigment complex. Melanin is stored in the substantia nigra of the brain. When depleted, it has been linked to conditions such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. Interestingly, in cases of melanin levels becoming too low, the body will pull the pigment from the hair (contributing to going gray) and lead it back into the brain. (7) This illustrates the importance of consuming melanin from dietary sources to ensure adequate quantities of this crucial brain antioxidant.
A significant factor in age-related memory problems is oxidative stress. To explore the potential of Chaga to safeguard the brain, scientists conducted a study using mice with chemically induced cognitive decline. Their findings revealed that mice administered Chaga for seven days exhibited vast improvements in learning and memory in contrast to those who did not consume the extract (8).
Potent Immune Booster
Chaga is regarded as a potent immune-boosting medicinal mushroom known worldwide for its healing properties. The immune-supporting potential of Chaga is believed to stem from its assortment of polyphenols, sterols, and triterpenoids. Most significantly, it contains an abundant combination of beta-glucans, melanin, and birch bark oils that synergistically contribute to its effectiveness as an immune-enhancing extract.
Chaga’s exceptional source of 1-3 beta-glucan polysaccharides possess immune regulating capabilities that can increase the body’s ability to produce natural killer (NK) cells and enhance overall immune system function. Today, researchers from across the globe continue to examine Chaga’s bioactive properties for their potential to fortify the body’s defenses against various pathogens. (9-14).
Additionally, Chaga mushrooms can benefit individuals with overactive immune systems by helping to restore balance. Inotodiol, a rare triterpenoid, serves as a stabilizer for mast cells (cells involved in the inflammatory response) (15). Furthermore, Chaga has shown the ability to stimulate the release of specific cytokines (signaling cells that increase immune system communication). Recent animal research has also demonstrated Chaga extract can effectively prevent excessive immune system reactions induced by chemicals, further illustrating its valued addition to one’s arsenal (16).
Balances Blood Sugar Response & Triglyceride Levels
Triglycerides are closely linked to metabolic health, particularly in terms of insulin sensitivity and glucose management. Numerous animal studies have demonstrated Chaga’s potential to support the maintenance of balanced blood sugar & triglyceride levels (24-26). In one study, mice were fed Chaga extract for three weeks, after which they displayed better control over their blood sugar levels and improvements in total cholesterol and triglycerides.
Multiple investigations have revealed that Chaga reinforces the well-being of pancreatic tissue, the organ responsible for insulin secretion (17,18,19). In another animal study, rats were given various doses of Chaga-derived polysaccharides for six weeks. At this study’s conclusion, the rats given Chaga presented better blood glucose levels within healthy ranges compared to those given a placebo. Moreover, their pancreatic beta-cells appeared to be in better health (24). A subsequent study confirmed these favorable effects on blood sugar and cholesterol levels when mice were treated with Chaga extract for a period of 21 days (20).
Chaga’s potential in balancing blood sugar may be attributed to its ability to restrict an enzyme known as alpha-glucosidase, the result of which can slow the absorption of glucose in the digestive tract (22). While research has identified the ability of Chaga’s polysaccharides to block this enzyme, further investigation in human studies is recommended (23).
