The Important Chaga Tea Benefits

By Kathy Kaufman


Chaga tea is made from the wild mushroom of the species inonotus obliquus. The mushroom is found in large numbers on birch trees as a parasite. It bears very close resemblance to burnt charcoal in physical appearance. This fungus does well in the forests of Northern Europe, North America, Korea and Russia. In this article, we will explore some chaga tea benefits that have been identified to date.

One of the most important components in the mushroom is the enzyme known as superoxide dismutase or SOD. This is an enzyme that is very critical in cell repair after these cells have been destroyed by the superoxide anion. There are particularly high levels in the dermal and epidermal layers in the skin. Here they help stimulate maturation of important cells known as fibroblasts.

Betulinic acid is another very useful component. The acid has been found to be a very effective anticancer agent. It works by triggering the process of apoptosis or programmed cell death. Others with similar properties are the beta glycans. Their mechanism of action involves modulation of the immune system so that the recognition and destruction of cancerous cells is easier.

There are also very high levels of thiamine (vitamin B1). This vitamin is required for the conversion of carbohydrates to produce energy. It is useful for treatment of conditions such as ulcerative colitis, diarrhoea and reduced appetite. It is also important in boosting the immune system in patients with HIV/AIDS. Other possible uses include treatment of conditions such as motion sickness, diabetic pain, alcoholism, glaucoma and cataracts.

Other important vitamins include vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), niacin and D2. Riboflavin helps the body to make use of oxygen and to metabolize amino acids, carbohydrates and lipids. It is used medically to treat glaucoma, cataracts and eye fatigue. Vitamin B3 or niacin is required for synthesis of gonadal hormones, treatment of schizophrenia and in memory stimulation. Vitamin D2 is important in bone formation and may be used to treat some protozoa diseases.

There are numerous other important components that are antimicrobial. These components are effective against numerous organisms that include bacteria, viruses and protozoa. The components that are effective against these bacteria include selenium, zinc, saponins, pantothenic acid, magnesium, melanin and flavonoids. Betulinic acid and saponins are potent antiprotozoal agents.

The other important element is iron. Iron is required for many functions that include, among others, synthesis of red blood cells. The element is incorporated into haemoglobin as the cells are created in the bone marrow. Deficiency of the iron causes a condition known as anaemia. This condition is characterised with decreased oxygen carrying capacity of blood. Associated symptoms include dizziness, body weakness, breathlessness and increased susceptibility to infections.

While there are numerous chaga tea benefits that have been identified, a few side effects exist and you need to look out for them. Increased tendency to bleed is perhaps the most serious of them. This side effect is most serious when blood thinners such as aspirin and warfarin are taken. The other side effect is the fact that sugar levels are often deranged and one may suffer from the effects of hypoglycaemia. Caution should therefore be exercised at all times.




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