What is Chaga?

What is Chaga Mushroom Exactly?

Chaga mushroom is a type of fungus that mainly grows on the bark of birch trees in cold climates, such as those in Scandinavia, Siberia, Canada, and Alaska. In Dutch, we call the mushroom “Berkenweerschijnzwam,” in English “chaga mushroom,” and in Latin “Inonotus obliquus.” For centuries, chaga has been used as a traditional medicine in Scandinavia, primarily to boost the immune system and promote overall health. Chaga is low in calories, rich in fiber, and filled with antioxidants. It likely has the highest ORAC value of all plant-based foods in the world.

Active Ingredients in Chaga

Chaga mushrooms contain a variety of beneficial, active ingredients. Some of the key ingredients include polysaccharides, antioxidants, betulinic acid, phytosterols, and melanin. Chaga also contains plant sterols such as lanosterol and inotodiol. Individually, these active ingredients have specific effects, but together they are stronger and all contribute to boosting your immune system. Therefore, the fungus may help prevent and fight inflammation and infections.

What is ORAC Value?

ORAC stands for Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity. This is the potential power and ability to neutralize free radical activity and damage. Antioxidants help the body address free radicals before they can cause harm to the organs. As mentioned earlier, Chaga likely has the highest ORAC value of all plant-based foods in the world, actually the highest of all food products in the world.

Chaga’s Water-Soluble Compounds

Polysaccharides: These promote the immune system and reduce inflammation. Beta-glucans, found abundantly in Chaga, play a significant role in strengthening the immune system.

Phytosterols: Found in Chaga, these plant sterols like lanosterol and inotodiol help rebalance the immune system.

SOD – superoxide dismutase: An enzyme in Chaga that destroys free radicals in the body.

Beta-glucans: Offer various health benefits, including lowering cholesterol, maintaining stable blood sugar levels, and boosting the immune system.

Arabinoxylan: Supports improved digestion, immune system stimulation, and protection against pathogens and infections.

Fungal Melanin: Acts as a shield against UV radiation and enhances overall skin vitality.

Chaga’s Alcohol-Soluble Compounds

Triterpenoids: Efficiently extracted with ethanol, these compounds, like betulin and betulinic acid, possess anticancer and immune-modulating activities.

Sterols: Some sterols, such as inotodiol, lanosterol, and ergosterol peroxide found in Chaga, reduce inflammation.

How to Use Chaga?

The best way to use Chaga is to consume a Chaga extract ( powder or liquid ) Chaga Chunks or Chaga powder. Chaga extract is a ready-to-use version, simply add it to hot water, and your Chaga tea is ready. You can also add it to smoothies, yogurt, or other hot beverages like coffee. If using Chaga powder or Chaga chunks, add it to boiling water and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes, up to 3 hours for a stronger result.

Chaga Tea vs. Tincture/Chaga Elixir

The choice between Chaga tea and tincture depends on personal preference and desired benefits. Both offer a range of health benefits, but tinctures may provide higher levels of certain compounds due to alcohol extraction.

Best Chaga Products?

Chaga Extract 100ml

Puur Nordic has been a Chaga specialist for many years. After long research, we created our own line of supplements. This is of course with the highest quality organic ingredients and extensively tested. So that you get the best we can offer! Our Chaga is produced in organic environments, free of harmful chemicals and pesticides, so therefore bears the organic seal of approval. No compromises when it comes to purity and quality. 1 bottle contains the same as 120 g of raw, dried, certified organic chaga!

Chaga Extract

Chaga Extract from Puhdistamo is considered one of the best Chaga products, known for its strength and quality. It has won several awards, including Superfood of the Year in Finland. Another powerful option is Chaga Elixir Extract, known for its high antioxidant content.

Chaga Powder 

The organic Chaga Powder from Puur Nordic is of the highest quality. The Chaga comes directly from the forest, far from busy cities or roads, and is only harvested in areas where crop protection and pesticides are prohibited. Pure Nordic has been a Chaga specialist for many years. After long research, we created our own line of supplements. This is of course with the highest quality ingredients and extensively tested. So that you get the best we can offer!

In short: The best Chaga powder on the market for the best price!

Chaga Chunks

Pure Nordic has been a Chaga specialist for many years. After long research, we created our own line of supplements. This is of course with the highest quality ingredients and extensively tested. So that you get the best we can offer! The organic Chaga chunks from Puur Nordic are of the highest quality. The Chaga comes directly from the forest and is only harvested in areas where crop protection and pesticides are prohibited. Quality is everything, and we only offer the highest quality Chaga products available.

Where to Buy Chaga Products?

Puur Nordic specializes in Chaga and other mushroom products, offering a wide selection from Scandinavia. They prioritize quality, selecting only the best Chaga products available. Visit our website to explore their Chaga products.