Chaga

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a basidiomycete fungus that parasitizes birch trees in cold northern regions. It forms a hard, blackened growth on the trunk, with an orange-brown interior when cracked open. The species is widely collected and used as a traditional remedy in parts of Russia, Poland, Finland, and other parts of northern Europe and Asia.

In preparing it for consumption, chaga is typically dried and brewed as a tea or decoction, or processed into tinctures, powders, or extracts for capsules and liquids.

Chemically, chaga contains a mixture of compounds including betulin and betulinic acid derived from the host birch bark, along with phenolic compounds, melanin, and polysaccharides such as beta-glucans. These constituents are thought to contribute antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties, but the evidence from human studies is limited.

Health claims for chaga remain unproven; robust clinical trials demonstrating benefits for cancer, infections, or chronic diseases are lacking. Regulatory status varies by country, and products sold as supplements are not tightly regulated in many jurisdictions.

Safety and quality considerations are important; products can vary in potency and may contain contaminants. People taking anticoagulant or glucose-lowering medications, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, or those with autoimmune conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use. As with many natural products, sourcing from reputable suppliers and mindful harvesting practices are advised.