Chaga
Inonotus obliquus
Chaga is a dense, charcoal-like fungal mass that grows on birch trees. It has been used for centuries as a northern immunity tonic and is exceptionally high in antioxidants.
Historical use
Sterile pseudo canker formed on birch trees used in Folk medicine for immunity and strength in Siberia, Northern Europe & Canada
Known for
Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune balancing
Target areas
Metabolic health, Immune system, oxidative stress, digestive & liver support
Active compounds
Betulin/betulinic acid, melanin, inotodiol, hispidin, polysaccharides
Type
Parasitic on birch, beech, alder, or hornbeam once its host dies it will “fruit” its one and only time releasing spores to infect a new viable host
Native to
Circumboreal forest
Other info
Cannot thrive without host trees - synergistic relationship
