By Kathy Kaufman


Chaga tea is made from ground wild mushrooms belonging to the species Inonotus obliquus. It grows naturally as a parasite on birch trees as well as other tree types. Its physical appearance closely resembles burnt charcoal. The most favourable climatic conditions for the growth of the mushroom are found in Russia, Northern Europe, Korea and North America among others. There are many chaga tea benefits that have been identified to date.

The fungus has high levels of the superoxide dismutase (SOD). The enzyme plays a very important role in cells that have been damaged by superoxide radicals. The levels are particularly high in the epidermis and dermis of the skin. In these skin layers, it helps in the maturation of cells known as fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are very important in skin building.

Betulinic acid is another very useful component. The acid has been found to be a very effective anticancer agent. It works by triggering the process of apoptosis or programmed cell death. Others with similar properties are the beta glycans. Their mechanism of action involves modulation of the immune system so that the recognition and destruction of cancerous cells is easier.

There are also very high levels of thiamine (vitamin B1). This vitamin is required for the conversion of carbohydrates to produce energy. It is useful for treatment of conditions such as ulcerative colitis, diarrhoea and reduced appetite. It is also important in boosting the immune system in patients with HIV/AIDS. Other possible uses include treatment of conditions such as motion sickness, diabetic pain, alcoholism, glaucoma and cataracts.

The other important vitamins that are found in high levels include riboflavin (B12), D2 and niacin. Riboflavin increases the respiratory rate of cells and helps in the metabolism of lipids, amino acids and carbohydrates. Medical uses include treatment of conditions such as eye fatigue, cataracts and glaucoma. Niacin is a vitamin that plays a crucial role in gonadal hormone synthesis, memory stimulation and schizophrenia. Vitamin D2 helps in bone and cartilage formation.

One of the most important properties of the tea is that it is antimicrobial. It is highly effective against viruses, protozoa and bacteria. Flavonoids, melanin, magnesium, pantothenic acid, copper, selenium, saponins and zinc have the ability to inhibit the growth and replication of bacterial organisms. Betulinic acid and saponins are very effective in treatment of malaria and other protozoa infections.

The mushroom has been found to have very high levels of iron. This element is a vital component of haemoglobin, the main component of red blood cells. Deficiency of iron results in decreased oxygen carrying capacity of the blood. This is characterised by symptoms such as easy fatigability, breathlessness, dizziness, general body weakness and susceptibility to infections. Vegetarians and athletes are at the highest risk of suffering from anaemia.

While there are many chaga tea benefits identified so far, there are a few side effects that you may need to look out for. For instance, there is an increased tendency to bleed. This is increased when the tea is taken alongside drugs such as warfarin, aspirin and other blood thinners. At the same time, the various components have been found to interfere with sugar metabolism such that one may suffer very low blood sugar levels. It is therefore important to take caution so as to avoid these side effects.




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