Chaga mushrooms grow on birch trees in the boreal forests of the Northern hemisphere, including Canada. They have been utilized for medicinal and ceremonial purposes for centuries, possibly millennia, by the native populations of North America, Siberia and Northern Finland.
By absorbing nutrients from the host tree over a long time, Chaga mushrooms are an extremely good source of betulinic acid. More and more research points into the direction that consuming Chaga delivers anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Beta-glucan polysaccharides and superoxide dismutase, which are compounds found in Chaga mushrooms, can rid your body of free radicals produced by stress and even support your immune system.
Stress-busting effects of Chaga.
Chaga is part of a group of mushrooms and herbs that are called adaptogens. Experts say adaptogens relieve some symptoms associated with elevated stress levels by improving the health of your adrenal system and staving off fatigue.
The Stress-Relieving Power of the Adaptogens
The initial definition of adaptogens was to be substances that improve the “state of non-specific resistance” in a stress situation. This non-specific resistance is a physiological condition that is associated with several disorders affecting the neuroendocrine-immune system.
Clinical trials have suggested that adaptogens can produce an anti-fatigue effect, which in turn increases the capacity to focus even during periods of stress and fatigue. As a result, adaptogens may support attention, focus and tolerance to mental exhaustion.
It’s important to understand that adaptogens do not alter mood directly; they are not psychoactive in the way that, for example, cannabis is. Instead, they simply help the body to function well in a stressful environment. Adaptogens can potentially bolster resilience and boost energy to give the body the strength and endurance it needs during stressful events.
Supporting adrenal function
Adaptogens may normalize body imbalances and also support adrenal function, which may counteract the adverse effects of stress.
Chaga’s adaptogenic powers can potentially help body cells access more energy and utilize available oxygen more efficiently. Additionally, there is evidence that adaptogens are involved in the elimination of toxic byproducts resulting from metabolic processes associated with stress.
How does Chaga get you through the day? Let us know in the comments below.