The Chaga (Tschaga)

Often referred to as cinder conk or clinker polypore – is a valuable healing and medicinal mushroom in naturopathic therapy of stomach and intestinal diseases as well as cancer.

Chaga is also known as cinder conk or clinker polypore. The natural range of this valuable medicinal mushroom extends mainly over the subarctic regions in the northern hemisphere of the earth.

Chaga is a parasitic tree fungus, which is particularly common in extensive moors with birch forests. The asexual stage of the fungus – the so-called sclerotium – and the mycelium are used. The sclerotium grows very slowly, it measures about 10 to 20 cm in diameter and can reach a weight of up to 5 kilograms. The bulbous, unshaped formations are hard and black on the outside. On the tree, they are reminiscent of an ulcer. The sclerotium always comes from wild foraging, the mycelium can be bred today. Chaga is also called the “Pearl of the North”.

Chaga has been used for hundreds of years in both Russian and Finnish folk medicine. It is traditionally highly valued as a toning agent. In addition, it is widely used due to its strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, as well as regulating the immune system. Above all, however, it has made a name for itself as a natural means for the treatment of all gastrointestinal diseases as well as cancer (preventive and therapy). Since 1858, Chaga has been on the Russian list of medicines due to its effect on cancer. Its scientific name is “inonotus obliquus”.

The ingredients and effects of Chaga have been scientifically researched in Russia since the 1930s. Today, numerous international scientific studies prove its high therapeutic value.

Valuable ingredients

Chaga contains many valuable and healing ingredients. These include betulin (precursor of betulinic acid), bioactive triterpenes, polysaccharides and flavonoids, ergosterol, sterols, as well as the inotodiol and a melanin complex. It is also characterised by an above-average content of antioxidants, minerals and trace elements.

Focus on cancer

In mycotherapy, Chaga is mainly used in complementary cancer treatment. Especially in the early stages of cancer, its antitumoral effect has been proven. But it is also valuable in advanced cancers, as it can slow tumour growth. In addition, it contributes to the control of metastasis. Its soothing effect on pain and the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy is also very beneficial for those affected.

In the area of the gastrointestinal tract, Chaga has been proven effective, among other things, against ulcers and inflammation. In addition, it has a very beneficial effect on the skin, for example in psoriasis.