Discover chaga, a natural superfood with multiple health benefits.
This amazing mushroom, known for its high antioxidant content, anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties, is increasingly valued by those seeking natural and effective solutions to improve their well-being.
In this article, we will explain why chaga is an essential supplement to your health routine, and how to consume it to gain all its benefits.
1. What is Chaga and Why is it So Special?
The chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a fungus that mainly grows on birch trees in Eurasia and North America. It often develops in the cracks of yellow and white birches, where it draws certain elements naturally present in the tree, notably polyphenols and triterpenes.
Used for centuries in certain traditions, chaga is now appreciated for its richness in polysaccharides, beta-glucans, triterpenes, phenols, melanin, vitamins, and minerals. Its nutritional profile makes it a sought-after ingredient in some plant and mushroom preparations.
Scientific research focuses on its bioactive compounds and their potential role within a varied and balanced diet. However, in Europe, dietary supplements based on chaga cannot claim specific health benefits.
2. The ORAC Index: Measuring the Antioxidant Power of Chaga
The ORAC index (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) is a measure of the antioxidant capacity of a food, that is, its ability to neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA, and are associated with aging and many diseases.
Chaga displays an impressive ORAC index of over 345,858 per 100 g of powder, much higher than that of green tea (125,300) or acai berry powder (102,700). This means that chaga is one of the richest antioxidant foods in the world.
Although ORAC measures activity in the laboratory, it does not allow direct conclusions about the effects of a food in the body. In Europe, antioxidants cannot be the subject of specific health claims without validation by the competent authorities. However, chaga is appreciated for its richness in polyphenols, beta-glucans, and other bioactive compounds, which attract scientific research interest.
3. How to Consume Chaga: Powder or Chunks?
We offer chaga in two forms: chunks and powder. Each form offers unique advantages to maximize its benefits:
- In chunks: This form is ideal for infusions and decoctions. The decoction method involves gently boiling the chaga chunks in hot water for several hours to extract the maximum nutrients and active compounds. Be careful not to exceed 60-70°C to preserve antioxidants, as excessive heat could degrade some of the beneficial molecules. Chaga decoctions have an earthy and slightly bitter taste but can be enhanced with honey, lemon, or ginger to improve the flavor.
- Powdered: Chaga powder is very convenient for adding to smoothies, teas, coffees, or culinary recipes. However, it is recommended to infuse the chaga powder or add it to hot water for better absorption, as the mushroom contains chitin, a compound that requires heat extraction to fully release its beneficial properties. Chaga powder can also be used to prepare facial masks, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin.
Chaga can also be consumed in the form of tincture or liquid extract, which are often made by double extraction (with water and alcohol) to obtain a full spectrum of its active compounds. These concentrated forms make it easy to incorporate chaga into a daily wellness routine.
4. The Composition of Chaga and Its Benefits
The chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a mushroom rich in bioactive compounds, some of which are studied for their nutritional properties and potential interest within a balanced diet. Among its notable components are:
- Polysaccharides and beta-glucans : These complex sugars are naturally present in many fungi. They are the subject of research for their role in various biological processes, notably related to nutrition.
- Triterpenes : Chaga contains triterpenes, including betulinic acid, which are studied for their interactions with certain cells and their activity in various experimental models.
- Phenols and melanin : Phenols are compounds naturally present in several plants and fungi, while melanin is a pigment that plays a role in various biological mechanisms.
- Vitamins and minerals : Chaga contains micronutrients such as potassium, zinc, calcium, and iron, which contribute to the proper functioning of the body when consumed as part of a varied and balanced diet.
5. Sustainability and Organic Certification of Chaga
Sustainability is a major concern in the cultivation and harvesting of chaga. Wild chaga is mainly harvested in birch forests, where it naturally grows on living trees. To avoid depletion of natural resources, it is essential to practice sustainable harvesting that does not damage the host trees.
