From cordyceps to lion’s mane, shiitake, maitake and everything in between – the Shroom Boom of the last few decades is showing no sign of halting any time soon.
While mushrooms have long been used for healing purposes in Chinese medicine, their health-boosting benefits are only just being promulgated within the Western world. We’re no strangers to fungi being used in healthcare – penicillin, after all, is a type of mould. Yet incorporating specific mushrooms which target particular health concerns into our daily diets through varied supplementation is changing the way we approach wellness.
Chaga is a special, rather innocuous-looking mushroom that grows on the trunks of birch trees. Foraging novices will find that it’s easy to miss due to the fungus’ woody, almost burnt appearance which – especially in north and northwestern Pacific climates – might simply be mistaken for forest fire charring. Breaking open chaga growth, however, will reveal its bright and spongey orange-brown core.
The burnt charcoal-resembling fungus is often referred to by nootropic enthusiasts as the ‘diamond of the forest’, for its overwhelming number of potential health benefits. But what exactly are they, and how can one ensure that they’re getting the most from their chosen chaga supplementation?
The benefits of chaga explained
Before we get into the potential benefits of chaga mushrooms, we urge our readers not to exalt the latent health benefits of fungi and mushroom supplementation over the advice of medical doctors. If you are concerned about your health or are experiencing worrying symptoms, contact your GP or call the NHS helpline on 111.
- Immune and anti-inflammatory support: Chaga may help to regulate the production of cytokines (a broad and loose category of small proteins important in cell signalling and inflammation control). This, in turn, may support the body’s immune system by helping cells communicate better.
- Antioxidant support: Chaga mushrooms are filled with polyphenols (such as triterpenoids), melanin and superoxide dismutase – antioxidant compounds which help to neutralise free radicals. Antioxidants may also help to reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – otherwise known as bad cholesterol.
- Blood sugar regulation: Chaga may help to improve insulin sensitivity in prediabetics and those with Type 2 diabetes thanks to the fact that it is high in beta-D-glucans. However, it has also been known to dramatically lower blood sugar which can cause hypoglycaemia, so it can be unsafe for Type 1 diabetics taking insulin.
- Anti-cancer properties: According to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre some preclinical studies have demonstrated that chaga showed inhibitory and pro-apoptotic effects against colon, lung and liver cancer cells. Inotodiol, a natural triterpenoid compound found in chaga (Inonotus obliquus) has also exhibited antitumour activity against cervical cancer cells. However, more studies are required to understand the potential anti-cancer benefits of chaga.
The risks of supplementing with chaga mushrooms
- Lowering blood sugar: An excess of beta-D-glucans may cause hypoglycaemia.
- Inhibiting platelet aggregation/clotting: If you are on blood-thinning/ anti-coagulant medications, consult your doctor before taking chaga as it may affect the blood clotting process.
- Renal function: Chaga mushrooms are known to be high in oxalates (oxalic acid), which can bind with minerals like calcium, potentially interfering with their absorption and increasing the risk of kidney stones in some individuals. Those with a history of kidney stones or renal failure should avoid chaga.
Always consult a medical professional before incorporating mushroom supplementation into your routine, especially if you take other daily medications.
We’ve curated a selection of the best chaga teas, tinctures and supplements to help boost your overall health below.
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Numami Wild Chaga Organic Mushroom Powder
Designed to be used with a filter teapot or a French press, this finely ground chaga powder by Numami is made with hand-foraged chaga from organic-certified forests in Estonia. The chaga is hand-harvested to minimise damage to birch trees and is collected during the height of winter in Northern Europe, as this is when chaga mushrooms are at their most nutrient-dense.
A little goes a long way with this blend – with just a teaspoon offering a rich, dark brew. Sweeten with agave or your favourite plant-based milk for a more palatable flavour if it’s your first time consuming chaga tea.
Buy now £19.90, Amazon
Buddha Teas Chaga
Though home to a myriad of nootropic teas ranging from ashwagandha, dandelion root and matcha to milk thistle, nettle leaf and dedicated mushroom blends, chaga is Buddha Teas’ crown jewel. USDA Organic, rather than being sold as a loose powder this tea is helpfully secured in unbleached tea bags. Buddha Teas suggests using French spring water when brewing chaga for optimum taste.
Buy now £6.42, iHerb
Bristol Fungarium Organic Chaga Tincture
Triple-extracted in the UK, Bristol Fungarium is on a mission to provide nootropic enthusiasts with easy-to-consume, high-potency and premium quality chaga. Wild-foraged in the Scottish Highlands once a year and extracted in the brand’s farm lab in Somerset, the tincture is made by carrying out two hot water extractions and a final organic ethanal extraction.
Tinctures typically have a longer shelf life than capsules, are easy to prepare, and are perfect for those who don’t want to indulge in an earthy cup of chaga tea. For best results, the brand recommends 1-2ml daily, ideally with a meal. One bottle contains 50 servings.
Buy now £31.50, Healf
Vivo Life Chaga Chai Latte
Featuring an impressive 4,500mg of chaga per serving, this chaga blend is gluten-free and made without artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners. It also contains nutmeg, coconut milk powder, coconut sugar, Ceylon cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and black pepper for a unique, chai-tastic flavour. Pair with oat milk and honey for a dreamy brew.
Thanks to Vivo Life’s partnership with the Akanksha Foundation, through which 100 per cent of the net profits from Magic Chaga Chai will go to Indian communities, you can be sure that buying Chaga Chai is not only an investment in your personal health, but in the education of children from low-income families in India.
Buy now £10.88, Vivo Life
London Nootropics Mush Love Coffee
A limited edition blend created with Fantastic Fungi, the group who produced the eponymous Netflix Documentary, this adaptogenic coffee is made with lion’s mane, cordyceps and chaga mushroom extracts from Hifas da Terra in Galicia.
The soluble powder features 6 per cent finely ground roasted coffee for those who prefer their mushroom coffee less earthy and more like a classic cup o’ joe. Simply add one sachet to a mug of hot water and stir well to dissolve before topping with your favourite milk.
Buy now £12.00, London Nootropics
Unique Nootropics Super Blend 6-in-1 Mushroom Gummies
Looking for maximum mushroom benefits without breaking the bank? Unique Nootropics’ Super Blend 6-in-1 Mushroom Gummies pack a seriously impressive lineup, including Lion’s Mane, reishi, chaga, cordyceps, turkey tail and shiitake.
This powerhouse combination targets everything from mental clarity and immunity to energy and stress support. The convenient gummy format means you don’t have to fuss with powders or capsules. For an affordable, all-in-one way to explore the world of functional mushrooms, these are hard to beat.
Buy now £20.89, Amazon
Verve Honest Mushrooms
Verve’s Honest Mushrooms blend offers a combination of medicinal mushrooms and adaptogens designed to support overall well-being. This blend includes ingredients like Lion's Mane, Reishi, Cordyceps and Chaga, all known for their immunity, cognitive and antioxidant properties. Lion's Mane is particularly noted for stimulating Nerve Growth Factors (NGF).
Adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Rhodiola and Ginseng are also featured in the formula. These ingredients are known for helping the body manage stress, boost energy and improve mental clarity. This combination aims to provide a holistic approach to health, addressing both physical and mental wellness.
Buy now £49.00, Verve
Sevenhills Wholefoods Organic 7 Mushroom Blend Powder
Sevenhills Wholefoods’ Organic 7 Mushroom Blend Powder packs a hefty punch of lion’s mane, cordyceps, shiitake, maitake, chaga, reishi and tremella into one versatile mix. This blend is certified organic and contains no added fillers, making it a clean and potent choice.
It’s designed to support a wide range of benefits, from brain health to immune support and overall vitality. The fine powder consistency makes it ideal for adding to smoothies, soups, or even baked goods, while its mild taste ensures it won’t overpower recipes.
Buy now £15.99, Amazon
The Shroom Shop Complete Mushroom Complex Powder
The Complete Mushroom Complex from The Shroom Shop features an impressive blend of 10 medicinal mushrooms, including lion’s mane, chaga, turkey tail and maitake. This all-in-one powder is carefully formulated to target immunity, cognitive function and overall vitality.
The mushrooms are dual-extracted for optimal bioavailability, ensuring you get the full spectrum of benefits. With its wide-ranging support for health and wellness, it’s a premium option for those serious about reaping the benefits of functional mushrooms.
Buy now £54.99, The Shroom Shop
Headstrong Chaga Supplements
Not a fan of the way chaga tastes? No problem. Headstrong’s chaga supplements contain the equivalent of 2,000mg of chaga per capsule. The vegan-friendly and gluten-free supplements are said to help support immunity, digestive health, cholesterol and inflammation thanks to high levels of beta-glucans, polysaccharides and melanins. The brand suggests taking one capsule daily with water.
Buy now £35.00, Headstrong
