Mushrooms are a delicious ingredient to many dishes, and they also promote your health in some amazing ways. There are various types of mushrooms, but we’ll focus on a variant that has significance in the medicinal world too.
Before we get into the benefits of Chaga mushrooms, let’s talk about what they are.
What Are Chaga Mushrooms?
Chaga mushroom, also known as the “King of Mushrooms,” is a fungus that grows in cold weather. It is most commonly found in Alaska, Korea, Northern Canada, Russia, Northern Europe and Siberia. It has a soft orange core and measures 10 to 15 inches in size.
Chaga mushrooms have been used as a natural medicine in North European countries for centuries to improve immunity. Its tea and supplements are available in dried and powdered forms. Including in-depth information about its immunity boosting, we are also discussing some other health benefits below.
Health Benefits of Chaga Mushrooms
It supports immune health
Various mushrooms, including Chaga, contain beta-glucans called polysaccharides. These polysaccharides help to support the immune system and overall wellness. The special proteins that stimulate the white blood cells in the body are cytokines. These are the immune system’s chemical messengers, which fights against harmful viruses & illness-causing bacteria. Their health supplements may also help regulate the production of cytokines if lacking.
It is rich in nutrients
Chaga mushrooms are a rich source of various vitamins, nutrients and minerals, including:
- Zinc
- Vitamin D
- Potassium
- Rubidium
- Selenium
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Copper
- Fibre
Slowing the ageing process
When someone has oxidative stress, it causes physical signs of aging like sagging skin, grey hair and wrinkles. Excessive exposure to the harmful radiation of sunlight stimulates free radicals increasing the skin’s aging process.
Antioxidants-rich diets can slow down the aging process. Chaga mushroom is rich in antioxidants which can be considered as a natural alternative to synthetic supplements.
Fight with inflammation
Inflammation is the immune system’s natural response to protect the body from disease. However, inflammation can progress from a short-term attack to long-term chronic health issues. Chronic long-term inflammation has been linked to heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis. According to new research, depression symptoms are also associated with chronic inflammation.
Animal and test-tube studies show that Chaga mushrooms can help control inflammation, autoimmune conditions, and other diseases by regulating the production of cytokines.
Helps to Maintain a Healthy Stress Response
Chaga mushroom is a type of plant known as an adaptogen. Adaptogens have special properties that help the body cope with the effects of physical and emotional stress. When taken consistently over weeks or months, Adaptogens may aid in support to promote calmness and balance.
In a bottom line
For a long time, Chaga mushrooms have been used for medicinal purposes. The Chaga mushroom powder is available in tea and supplement form. It helps fight various diseases like cancer, blood sugar and many more. Powdered form is the best way to transport Chaga mushrooms in Australia and other hot regions where they don’t grow naturally.