Chaga, also known as Inonotus obliquus, is a parasitic fungus that grows on selected deciduous tree species in the colder regions of the northern hemisphere. Its medicinal properties have been appreciated for centuries among local communities, and the last two decades have seen increased interest from scientists. In this article, we will look at some of the research on the therapeutic potential of this unusual fungus.
Potential of Chaga in oncology therapies
One area where Chaga is showing promise is in anti-cancer therapy. Studies indicate that Chaga's bio-components can affect cancer cell proliferation in various lineages, such as breast, lung, prostate, cervical, colorectal or skin cancer. Chaga components inhibit uncontrolled cell division (mitosis) and modulate apoptotic processes, i.e. clearing the body of unwanted cells. The anti-cancer effect of Chaga extracts has also been observed in animal models and individual cases in humans.
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects
Chaga może mieć również pozytywny wpływ na stany zapalne, które mogą prowadzić do rozwoju wielu schorzeń, w tym chorób układu krążenia i nowotworowych. Wodno-alkoholowe ekstrakty z Chagi wykazują działanie przeciwzapalne, obniżają poziom tlenku azotynu (NO) oraz modulują działanie różnych czynników zaangażowanych w stany zapalne. Dodatkowo, składniki Chagi wykazują silne właściwości antyoksydacyjne, stymulując produkcję enzymów neutralizujących wolne rodniki.
Therapeutic options in the treatment of diabetes
Chaga has also shown promising anti-diabetic properties, particularly in type 1 and 2 diabetes. Studies on mice with type 2 diabetes have shown a reduction in glucose and insulin levels after administration of Chaga extract. In mice with type 1 diabetes, Chaga decreased free fatty acids, cholesterol and triglycerides levels and increased insulin, glycogen and liver enzyme activity. Research into the potential of Chaga's bioactive components in treating diabetes is still ongoing, and the results appear promising.
Other health benefits of Chaga
Chaga may have even more health benefits than those listed above. Some studies suggest that this medicinal mushroom may have antiviral, antimicrobial and antifungal effects, which may help fight various infections. In addition, Chaga may support the immune system by stimulating the immune response and modulating the activity of T and B lymphocytes.
It is worth mentioning that Chaga may also have an adaptogenic effect, helping the body to cope with stress and improving its overall performance. As oxidative stress is one of the main factors accelerating the ageing process, Chaga's antioxidant properties may also help to slow down this process.
Finally, we would like to inform you that Chaga extract is available in our shop which we have carefully prepared from this remarkable mushroom's high-quality dried fruiting bodies. Encased in a convenient 30 ml bottle, our extract provides a high concentration of Chaga, allowing you to enjoy its potential health benefits. We invite you to purchase and try this excellent product, which can become a support for your health and well-being.
Source:
Peng, H., and Shahidi, F. (2020). Bioactive compounds and bioactive properties of chaga (Inonotus obliquus) mushroom: a review. J. Food Bioact. 12: 9–75.
Photo: Bluebird Provisions from Unsplash
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