Our super herb of the week is chaga!!!
Chaga is a mushroom that has been used in Siberia and other parts of Asia for centuries to boost immunity and improve overall health. It mainly grows on the bark of birch trees in cold climates. Traditionally, chaga was grated into a fine powder and brewed as an herbal tea. Today it is available as a supplement and in herbal teas.
Benefits
Chaga is rich in the following vitamins, nutrients and minerals.
- B-complex vitamins
- vitamin D
- potassium
- rubidium
- cesium
- amino acids
- fiber
- copper
- selenium
- zinc
- iron
- manganese
- magnesium
- calcium
Chaga has also been linked to lowering blood sugar and cholesterol. As well Chaga is very high in fiber and loaded with antioxidants. Hence, it stimulates white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off harmful bacteria and viruses.
Chaga also has an anticancer effect. Healthline reported that in a study in mice with cancer, chaga supplements resulted in a 60% reduction in tumor size. Medical News Today reported that a 2010 study found that chaga could slow the growth of lung, breast, and cervical cancer cells in a petri dish. It is thought that this anticancer effect is partly due to its high content of antioxidants, which protects cells from damage by free radicals.
How Does Chaga Taste
As a tea, chaga tastes a lot like a medium roast coffee. It has an earthy, slightly bitter, yet smooth tone. However, unlike coffee chaga does not have caffeine and will not keep you awake. On the contrary, chaga has adaptogenic properties and can help your body adapt to stress and calm down.
So if you are stressed or your immune system needs a boost than chaga is perfect for you. Chaga tea is a delicious and healthy way to reap the benefits of this spectacular mushroom. You can drink it any time of the year and know that it’s benefits are truly endless. However, despite it’s impressive list of properties, there is little evidence that Chaga can treat any medical condition. Thus, be sure to consult your physician prior to use.
Have you tried our super herb of the week, chaga? Was it effective?
