Chaga mushrooms are a nutrient-dense oxidizing superfood, rich in a wide variety of vitamins,
minerals, and nutrients, including: B-complex vitamins, vitamin D, potassium, rubidium,
cesium, amino acids, fiber, copper, selenium, zinc, iron, manganese, magnesium,
calcium. They grow on birch trees
throughout the northern hemisphere and resemble a dark clump of dirt distinguished
from other growths by their orange tissue.
Doctors, alternative
medicine advocates, and researchers are increasingly interested in the
potential health benefits of the chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus).
Oxidation slows the aging
process. Physical signs of aging, such
as wrinkles, sagging skin, and gray hair are often caused by a lack of oxidation.
Exposure to sun, pollution, and other sources of damage create too many free
radicals for the body to neutralize, which accelerates the aging process of the
skin.
Research suggests that
oxidative stress is a contributing factor for high
blood pressure. People with high blood pressure are
more prone to heart attacks, strokes,
and other cardiovascular health issues.
Chaga mushrooms contain many antioxidants that may
reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the so-called
"bad" cholesterol.
Chaga is
rich in antioxidants, which are chemicals that help prevent cell damage caused
by free radicals or oxidants. When the body is unable to produce enough
antioxidants to prevent this damage, oxidative stress occurs. Oxidative stress
can cause cancer and a host of other health problems.
Cytokines are chemical protein messengers
in the immune system. Some research suggests that chaga may help
regulate the production of cytokines and support the immune system by helping
cells communicate with one another. These proteins play a vital role in
stimulating white blood cells; the immune system's first line of defense
against a range of illnesses.
Chaga, by regulating cytokine production, may also help
control inflammation. Some illnesses, particularly chronic conditions such
as rheumatoid arthritis, are linked to inflammation. Recent research suggests
that some conditions, including depression and autoimmune conditiona, that are
not considered inflammatory, may be partially attributed to chronic
inflammation.
Chaga might also have
a role in the fight against diabetes. A
2006 study found
that chaga mushrooms could lower blood sugar in rats that had been genetically
modified to have . Diabetes and obesity After eating chaga mushrooms for 8
weeks, their blood sugar levels were lower.
Though no research has been done on humans yet, this suggests that chaga
might contribute to an alternative treatment for diabetes in the future.
Contraindications: As with
other supplements and medications, chaga carries some risks. It can also
trigger side effects and may interact dangerously with some medications and
supplements.
Because chaga lowers blood
sugar, it can be dangerous for people taking insulin and other blood
sugar-lowering medications. To reduce
the risks of using chaga mushrooms, a person should continue taking all
prescribed medications, as chaga is not a substitute for traditional medicine. Tell a doctor about all medications being
used. As with other drugs and supplements, chaga may alter the effectiveness of
various medications. Write down any side
effects from chaga use. Though rare, chaga can trigger an allergic reaction in
some people. Trouble breathing, changes in heart rate, and loss of
consciousness are medical emergencies.
Disclaimer: The information presented herein
by New Way Herbs is intended for educational purposes only. These
statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose,
cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using
any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own healthcare
provider.Disclaimer: The information presented herein
by New Way Herbs is intended for educational purposes only. These
statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose,
cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using
any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own healthcare
provider.
