Scientifically named Inonotus Obliquus , the chaga mushroom has been used in traditional medicine for centuries in Europe and Russia. It boosts the immune system and contains a large quantity of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Its qualities and contents make it a real health ally, both as a food supplement and in beauty care.
What you need to know about Chaga mushroom
It is also called oblique polypore : in its natural state, this mushroom has a cracked shape and is dark in color. It only grows in cold northern regions. This adaptogenic plant grows on certain trees, whose crevices it hugs. It is most often the yellow birch, also called cherry, and the chaga feeds on its nutrients while caring for the tree. It is a plant capable of adapting to its environment and growing in extreme climates. It helps reduce fatigue through self-regulation of cortisol production and slowing down the breakdown of collagen.
Even though its mode of adaptation resembles that of a parasite, chaga only settles on injured trees. It helps them regenerate and can reach a size exceeding 30 centimeters.
Edible with a pronounced bitterness and a strong taste, this mushroom has entered gastronomy. Many chefs try, with varying degrees of success, to incorporate it into their preparations.
The action of chaga on the skin
Its anti-oxidant action makes it a great ally for the skin. Its phenol helps to strengthen and strengthen it, and it can then age healthily. Sensitive skin, particularly those prone to allergies, will benefit from its action over the long term. It will soothe the skin, but will also boost the immune system and strengthen the resilience of the dermis against environmental factors.
Chaga relieves irritation, soothes redness and increases skin defenses . It contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, D and K, as well as a whole series of minerals and trace elements. Everything it contains helps to strengthen and deeply nourish the skin.
The populations of Alaska and Native American tribes have already known its anti-irritant virtues for centuries. It seems that its fermented version is even more effective for this type of problem.
The health benefits of chaga
This unsavory-looking mushroom is actually a very powerful antioxidant . Among these active ingredients, we find in particular superoxide dismutase and melanin . The latter, when it comes from chaga, also helps protect DNA. As a reminder, antioxidants are essential allies to fight against the effects of oxidative stress on the body and fight free radicals .
As a dietary supplement, chaga has stimulating, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It would also have beneficial effects on the digestive system. It is also an ingredient that is the subject of research in the fight against cancer.
This mushroom, which looks like charred wood, strengthens the immune system, thanks to its content of beta-glucan polysaccharides. These encourage the production of killer cells, T lymphocytes. The immune system is also strengthened thanks to its cocktail of vitamins, trace elements and minerals.
