Chaga: therapeutic properties and contraindications

In nature there are many plants that have medicinal properties and are used in folk medicine. One of them is chaga. This is a special mushroom that grows on the trunks of birch trees and is used not only for the preparation of tasty and useful tea.

Chemical composition

The use of birch chaga brings invaluable benefits for the body, which is due to its composition. The composition of the mushroom includes the main elements of the Mendeleev table, which are also necessary for the human body. But experts have not yet determined exactly what other elements are present in its composition.

According to experts, chaga has many useful trace elements, including:

1. Magnesium. Participates in the activation of more than 300 trace elements. It is necessary for normal absorption and transport of B vitamins. Magnesium is actively involved in many metabolic processes, including fat, carbohydrate and protein. The trace element has a vasodilator effect, which allows you to control blood pressure, is involved in the contraction of muscle tissue. At the same time, it is important for the normal functioning of the myocardium. Its contraction without this trace element is impossible. Magnesium in combination with potassium normalizes the conduction of signals in the nervous system.
2. Potassium and sodium. Micronutrients are involved in the formation of potassium-sodium balance, which helps to keep the pressure inside the cells normal. Substances are among the most important components of the water-salt balance, they help maintain optimal fluid levels, preventing depletion. Without them, the process of muscle tissue contraction is not performed properly. They are involved in reactions that take place in the transfer of oxygen to cells of tissues and organs.
3. Barium. Its role in the human body is not well studied. Many experts say that it is not as important as other trace elements. But according to many years of research at a decrease in its concentration breaks down digestion, worsens performance of the cardiovascular system. Thus, it is involved in the functioning of these systems. In addition, studies have shown that a greater amount of the trace element is contained in muscles, organs of the visual apparatus.
4. Iron. A huge amount of iron is contained in the blood. And this is not surprising. The trace element is present in the body to activate the production of hemoglobin, which is important for women, especially during pregnancy. Iron performs an oxidative function and is involved in the synthesis of red blood cells.
5. Zinc. It is found in almost all tissues. The trace element has an antioxidant effect and helps to slow down the natural aging process. Zinc is invaluable for the skin. Even a slight lack of it several times increases the risk of diabetes and infertility in both men and women.
6. Manganese. Like many trace elements, it is involved in several processes at once. First of all, it regulates the absorption of iron in the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract. The substance is actively involved in the absorption of vitamins, helps regulate glucose levels and cholesterol. As a result, the risk of diabetes and the formation of cholesterol plaques, which can lead to stroke or heart attack, is reduced. Manganese is needed to regulate the production of thyroid hormones, which prevents the development of endocrine diseases. The trace element stimulates the synthesis of fatty acids, increases reproductive ability, and regulates the functioning of the nervous system.

Other trace elements such as aluminum, silver, cobalt, nickel, silicon and others are also present in birch chaga.

The mushroom contains acids such as formic and oxalic acids, which are also required for normal body function.

Chaga also contains elements such as alcohols, resins, aromatic acids. All of them are present in significant quantities in the body and are also actively involved in various metabolic processes and the synthesis of useful substances. There are phenols, fiber, dietary fiber, as well as vitamins. The main ones are:

1. Vitamin A. Also called retinol. It is necessary for the normal functioning of the organs of vision. Thanks to vitamin A, a person can see and have vision for a long time. In addition, retinol takes an active part in protecting the body from infections and pathological microorganisms. The vitamin is necessary to maintain the skin and mucous membranes in a normal state, and participates in the process of cell division. It is found exclusively in animal products. Pro-vitamin A is found in plant foods.
2. Folic acid. It is a vitamin B9 that activates the synthesis of protein compounds, reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, and stimulates the process of hematopoiesis, which occurs in the bone marrow. Folic acid is also necessary for pregnant women, as it is required for the formation of the fetus, its bones, nervous system and blood vessels. Vitamin deficiency leads to microcytic anemia, which is a dangerous condition, especially if there is a significant deficit.
3. Vitamin E. In medicine it is called tocopherol. It participates in the metabolism of protein compounds, carbohydrates and fats.
4. Vitamin RR. It is nicotinic acid, which participates in metabolic processes and helps to reduce the amount of "bad" cholesterol.

Chaga also contains a large number of B vitamins, each of which is important for the body. They are necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system, are involved in energy metabolism. Substances help the body to cope with stress, normalize glucose levels. B vitamins are used to treat anemia and various psychiatric diseases.

Chaga also contains vitamin C, which is necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system. He not only helps to restore the body's defenses, but also speeds up the recovery process when the flu, SARS or colds.

Thus, birch mushroom is very valuable for the body. Its rich composition will help the body to cope with various diseases, disorders and prevent the occurrence of many pathologies, including pregnant women and the fetus.

How it looks and where it grows

Chaga is a type of mushroom, it belongs to the trutovik family. It forms exclusively on birch trunks, it is also found on mountain ash, alder and aspen. In appearance, it is a dark-colored outgrowth. To the touch, it is hard, has an uneven surface that is covered with veins and cracks.

The fungus begins to form on cracks in the bark of the tree, where the spores penetrate with the help of the wind. Its life span is more than 20 years. But the tree on which it forms gradually dies, because chaga takes away all the vitamins and nutrients from it.

Although the mushroom is a parasite, it is useful for the body and has many medicinal properties. At the same time, only chaga has a similar effect. The other growths have no value for humans.

Collection and Storage

Chaga is harvested regardless of the time of year. But in summer it is most often not noticeable because of its surrounding greenery. It is best to choose autumn or spring, when there are no leaves on the trees. In winter, it is difficult to collect the mushroom, because there is a lot of snow in the forests.

According to experts, it is in the spring time chaga contains more trace elements, nutrients and vitamins.

When collecting it is important not to confuse birch mushroom with other mushrooms. You can distinguish chaga from them by its appearance. Chaga does not have a certain shape and is distinguished by its black or brown color. Chaga grows in the shape of a horseshoe, rounded. Its color is lighter, closer to brown.

Before collecting chaga, you should take with you a sharp knife, because it is difficult to remove it from the tree with your hands. The mushroom does not need to be removed from already dead trees, because it has no nutrients. More often than not, chaga is also dead.

You should not cut the mushroom from the lower part of the tree either. The higher it is, the more useful substances it contains. Also, experts say that chaga should be cut only from trees that grow in groves, not from solitary birch trees.

After collecting the chaga is dried in natural conditions and stored in a dark, dry place. Before this, it is necessary to remove the darkened areas and dirt. Duration of its storage is more than 12 months if properly prepared.

How to properly dry chaga

After the chaga is collected, it is cleaned from the wood in the place where it was in contact with the trunk. The black surface should also be cleaned, leaving only a mass of brown.

Chaga is cut into small pieces, which will be convenient to use for making tea and various infusions. This is necessary for convenience, because after drying the mushroom hardens quite a lot, and to separate it into pieces will be difficult.

To dry, leave the chaga in a well-ventilated room. But it is important to know that you should not expose it to sunlight, because ultraviolet light will destroy most of the useful substances.

Store birch mushroom should be in cloth bags. Do not use polyethylene for this purpose, because chaga must breathe. Shelf life is 2 years.

What is useful for chaga

Because of its composition chaga brings invaluable benefits to the body. First of all, its regular use allows you to remove excess water from the body and relieve swelling. Useful properties of the birch mushroom:

1. It has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Infusions of chaga are used to relieve inflammation, especially on the skin.
2. Helps to improve the intestinal microflora and the process of healing of ulcers in the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract. Such action is achieved through the ability of chaga to envelop the mucosa and protect it from the harmful effects of a number of factors.
3. Helps to normalize the respiratory system due to the high content of substances that help transport oxygen to different tissues and organs.
4. It strengthens the vascular walls and the heart muscle. Such a property is achieved due to the sufficient content of magnesium and potassium in the composition of the mushroom. The substances have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system.
5. Supports the immune system. Chaga contains many vitamins that help strengthen the body's defenses, increase its resistance to many diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and infections.
6. Restores blood pressure, has a positive effect on blood composition due to the content of special substances that activate the production of red blood cells and regulate the BP by expanding blood vessels.
7. Helps to cope with stress. Tea based on chaga is recommended for people who are in stressful situations, constantly experiencing depression.
8. It has a slight analgesic effect. Birch mushroom can be used as a natural painkiller.

Chaga helps to maintain metabolism and lowers blood glucose levels, so it can be used in diabetes. Among other things, chaga has antioxidant properties. It is used to prevent cancer, it is used in the treatment of already established oncology, as included substances help significantly enhance the effect of drugs.

Thus, the birch mushroom when used correctly can bring invaluable benefits to the body.

For women

Trutovik is useful for the female body, as it helps to stop the inflammation of various tissues and accelerate their healing process. Chaga is used by folk healers to treat diseases such as uterine myoma, erosion, endometriosis. Many healers claim that the regular use of infusions based on the mushroom will help get rid of infertility. Also today there are several preparations that are made on the basis of chaga. They are also used to treat diseases of the female body.

Chaga is also used in cosmetics, which are aimed at maintaining the beauty of hair and skin. External use of ointments, creams and infusions has a rejuvenating effect, helps to tighten the skin and remove small wrinkles.

For men

Many substances that are contained in the fungus have a positive effect on potency, helping to prolong male health. Birch mushroom can regulate the content of hormones in the body, increase libido.

In addition, the use of chaga helps men increase stamina, especially in large daily physical exertion. That is why experts recommend that athletes add chaga to their tea.

When pregnant

During pregnancy, the female body needs several times more nutrients, vitamins and minerals. In the early stages of fetal formation, folic acid is of great benefit. It is necessary for the proper development of the child.

However, you should use it during pregnancy only after consulting the leading gynecologist, since an allergic reaction or worsening of your condition is possible.

When breastfeeding

Chaga should not be introduced into the diet of women in the period of lactation without a doctor's consultation. This is due to the fact that the birch mushroom contains substances that penetrate into the breast milk and cause allergies in the baby.

So, chaga should not be used while breastfeeding for 6 months after delivery. If your pediatrician allows you to drink birch mushroom tea, introduce it into your diet gradually, watching the reaction of the baby. If allergies occur, chaga should be removed from the diet immediately.

For children

Children are allowed to give infusions and tea based on chaga only from 2 years old in small quantities. This is due to the fact that the mushroom can cause digestive disorders, the appearance of rashes, redness on the skin. Before giving it to your child, you should consult with a specialist, because the mushroom refers to a fairly specific product.

With proper use, chaga will bring many benefits for the child's body. But if there are unpleasant symptoms, you should consult a specialist, who will prescribe antihistamines to relieve the signs of allergy.

For weight loss

In the fight against excess weight chaga helps to achieve a positive effect. It has a small caloric value, allows you to remove excess water from the body. So, people on a diet, it is recommended to introduce in their diet tea and other remedies based on chaga. It will not only help not to get better, but also to strengthen the immune system, increase the body's resistance, replenish trace element reserves.

Birch mushroom in medicine

To date, in medicine, preparations based on chaga are used to treat many diseases. Also used are remedies of folk medicine. But you should use them only as additional therapy and after consulting your doctor.

In diabetes

Diabetes mellitus today is increasingly being established in patients of different ages. The disease is incurable and requires constant use of pills or insulin.

As a preventive measure, experts recommend consuming chaga in any form. This is because the mushroom contains substances such as potassium and manganese. They allow you to regulate the level of glucose and reduce the risk of pathology.

In addition, chaga helps to normalize metabolic processes, which slows down the formation of cholesterol plaques in blood vessels. They block the lumen and cause deterioration of blood circulation, which leads to a heart attack.

If diabetes is already established, it is necessary to get a consultation from a treating endocrinologist before using the mushroom.

Pancreatitis

The disease is caused by inflammation of the pancreatic tissue. In pancreatitis, chaga is recommended only after the acute stage is stopped.

For treatment, both remedies of folk medicine based on the mushroom, and medicines are used. They allow you to relieve inflammation, have a mild analgesic effect and accelerate the healing of damaged tissue.

Gastritis

Such a disease as gastritis is also characterized by the spread of inflammation on the tissues of the stomach. Infusion of chaga will help to cope with it.

Means have an enveloping effect, protect the mucosa of the organ from the negative effects of various factors, reduce the risk of ulcers and help get rid of pain in the stomach.

As part of chaga there are substances that improve digestion. Decoctions based on the mushroom are also used to relieve spasms. But they should apply after consulting with your doctor.

For the intestines

Birch mushroom is widely used for diseases of the intestines and other digestive organs. It has anti-inflammatory, coating and analgesic effects. Due to the substances it contains, the mushroom promotes the production of special enzymes that activate the digestive process.

Thus, in intestinal disorders and the development of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract will bring great benefit, speeding up the healing process and preventing the occurrence of ulcers on the mucosa.

With constipation

Sedentary lifestyle of many people contributes to the occurrence of stagnation in the intestines. Get rid of them will help infusions and solutions based on chaga.

Thanks to its composition and a large number of useful properties, the mushroom will restore the digestive process and get rid of such a delicate problem.

If you have gout

The constant use of fatty and salty foods, lack of motor activity for a long time becomes the cause of the development of such a disease as gout. The disease is characterized by the occurrence of painful sensations in the joints.

You can treat the pathology with the help of chaga, because the mushroom will not only help to relieve pain, but also to restore the motor activity of the limbs. But you should use remedies of folk medicine only in conjunction with other drugs, which will prescribe the attending physician. This will help speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.

Colitis

Colitis occurs against the background of dystrophic changes in the intestine and the occurrence of inflammation. Although many folk healers use infusions and decoctions based on chaga to treat colitis, doctors do not recommend their use.

Birch mushroom in the case of dystrophic changes can cause deterioration, so colitis belongs to the contraindications.

For the liver

Diseases of the liver occur primarily as a result of non-compliance with a healthy lifestyle. Under the influence of negative factors, the organ begins to collapse, which leads to the emergence of unpleasant symptoms.

In case of liver disease, chaga will bring invaluable benefits due to its composition. It will not only help protect the organ from negative effects, but also accelerate its recovery process.

Birch mushroom is used not only for the treatment, but also for the prevention of liver diseases.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids occur with prolonged sitting in a sitting position. Chaga will help to fight such a delicate problem. Thanks to its composition, it will reduce inflammation and painful sensations.

Therapy can be carried out both with the help of folk medicine and pharmaceuticals. But experts recommend a comprehensive treatment, which will help to avoid serious consequences.

In cholecystitis

Cholecystitis also refers to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. You can get rid of unpleasant symptoms with the help of birch mushrooms, which are used to make infusions and decoctions.

The remedies will help eliminate unpleasant symptoms, including painful sensations. The substances included in the chaga help to restore the digestive process, support metabolic processes and protect the mucosa from negative effects.

When it comes to oncology

Cancer is a rather dangerous disease that can develop rapidly and affect many organs and tissues. It is not always possible to cure the disease. But many folk healers claim that with the regular use of teas and infusions based on chaga significantly reduces the risk of malignant tumors.

In addition, when cancer is already established, folk medicine advises to supplement treatment with similar remedies. On the basis of studies it was found that after using the solutions, patients felt significantly better, the growth of neoplasms slowed down, painful sensations decreased. But before using should consult with your doctor, because the possibility of using additional means depends on the overall condition of the patient, the peculiarities of the course of the disease, its stage and the degree of development of the neoplasm.

Folk healers recommend combining chaga with such means as calendula, St. John's wort, plantain. They contribute to enhance the effect of chaga.

From papillomas

The human papilloma virus of various types causes the appearance of herpes, chickenpox, warts. It is impossible to get rid of it, because it, having penetrated the body once, penetrates the DNA and remains there forever. Even with modern medications it is impossible to destroy it.

The virus is activated against the background of certain factors, such as reduced immunity, hypothermia, infectious lesions and others. As a result, growths begin to form on mucous membranes and tissues, which are called papillomas. They are tissue overgrowths and form both individually and in whole groups. They can be removed in several ways, including with the help of infusions based on fungus.

The outgrowths are regularly smeared with solutions, as a result, over time they begin to die off. But the birch mushroom should be used with caution, so as not to traumatize the neighboring tissues.

In addition, in the course of treatment, chaga is also recommended to be consumed internally. It will help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of new formations.

Types of healing compositions with chaga

Folk medicine knows many recipes based on the birch mushroom, which are used to treat many diseases. When preparing the recipe, the technology and the dosage must be carefully observed when taking the remedy.

Balm

A healing balm can be prepared on the basis of chaga. It is widely used to treat different types of growths, such as papillomas and polyps. It is taken for ulcers, diseases of the liver, pancreas, gallbladder and gastrointestinal tract. Balsam based on birch mushroom is a stimulant and activator of a number of processes occurring in the body.

Before cooking you will need to make a sugar syrup. To do this, pour a small amount of sugar in water and put on the fire. In this case, it should be constantly stirred. When the sugar has completely dissolved, it is removed from the stove.

Also in a separate container prepare an infusion of oregano in alcohol, as well as a syrup of citric acid. The mushroom is soaked in water and left for one night.

To prepare the balm mix sugar syrup, mushroom tincture, oregano infusion and syrup based on citric acid in equal parts. All put on the fire and bring to a boil. Use as an additive to tea or coffee in an amount of 10 ml per 100 ml of liquid.

Infusions .

In folk medicine, common infusions based on chaga. There are many recipes that are also used as a prophylactic and for the treatment of certain diseases.

Recipe number 1
Infusions are designed to reduce the size of neoplasms affecting the pelvic organs. Both fresh and dried mushrooms are used, previously soaked in water for 4-5 hours. Chaga is rubbed and poured over cooled boiled water in the proportion of 1 part mushroom to 5 parts water. Then leave in a dark place for two days.

Take the infusion after straining three times a day, one glass. It can also be used for hemorrhoids enemas. The infusion is administered twice a day, 50 ml.

Prescription #2
Can be used to treat any pathology, as it is universal. Grind the mushroom beforehand with a grater or blender, pour five glasses of water. The container is covered with a lid and put away for one day.

When the solution has infused, the remainder is squeezed with gauze. Take the remedy by half a glass up to 6 times a day. It is important to remember that the shelf life of the infusion is not more than 3 days. That is why you should not prepare at once a lot of infusion for the reserve.

Recipe #3.
It is used for bleeding gums. To prepare the following ingredients will be needed:

• A teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers;
• A teaspoon of crushed chaga;
• 2 cups of boiling water.

All ingredients are mixed and poured hot boiling water. Cover the container with a lid and put in a cool dark place for 4 hours. After that, strain the infusion and use to rinse your mouth.

Recipe number 4
Infusion prepared according to this recipe helps to cope with gastritis, which has a chronic form.

For preparation you need a powder of chaga in an amount of 1 tablespoon. It is poured into a glass and pour boiled water, the temperature of which is 40-50 degrees. Insist for 6 hours.

Take small sips in 3 doses after a meal. The course of treatment is about six months. After its completion, a significant improvement in the condition, the disappearance of attacks of gastritis is noted.

Tincture .

On the basis of fungus prepare and alcoholic tincture. Previously ground birch mushroom in an amount of half a cup pour 1 liter of alcohol or vodka. The container is placed in a dark cool place for two weeks.

Then it is filtered using gauze folded into several layers, and take a teaspoon three times a day before meals. Tincture is useful for the prevention of the formation of malignant tumors, already established cancer and other diseases. Alcohol increases by several times the properties of chaga, which allows you to have a positive effect on the body and significantly speed up the recovery process.

Also, the tincture can be prepared with water, which allows you to give it to children. To prepare it, 200 g of chaga is soaked in warm water. After soaking it is rubbed on a grater, pour water and put in a dark place. After two days strain.

The ready tincture is consumed by one glass three times a day. But it's worth remembering that the daily dosage can't exceed 600 ml of the remedy. Tincture is popular for stomach ulcers, weakened immunity, digestive disorders and gastritis.

Decoction

A decoction is used to obtain a sufficiently concentrated composition. It turns out strong, so it should be used with caution. To make it, you need three tablespoons of pre-crushed chaga. It is poured into a jar of 1 liter and pour boiling water.

Cover the container with a lid, cover and leave for 6 hours. Then strain. The decoction is used in the presence of malignant neoplasms in any organs and tissues, gastritis. Also, the remedy can be used to rinse the mouth in the case of bleeding gums or douches in gynecological diseases. It is consumed by 100 ml three times a day for an hour before a meal.

Tea

Non-strength solution of chaga can be taken without fear because the concentration of useful substances in it is small and can not harm your health. Tea is brewed on a pre-milled birch mushroom to powder. It is used as a simple brew.

Chaga is poured into a teapot and poured with boiling water. Consumed after 10 minutes. Tea is used to prevent and enhance immunity. It can be given to children during the flu season, colds.

Oil of chaga: properties and use

Oil prepared on the basis of chaga, as well as other means, is popular in folk medicine. It is used to treat colds, painful joints, skin problems such as rashes, redness, irritation.

Due to the composition of the oil will help reduce inflammation and relieve dermatitis, it has a mild analgesic effect. To prepare it you will need a teaspoon of water infusion and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Everything is mixed and infused in a dark place for one day.

The product is applied to the joints at arthritis, rheumatism and osteochondrosis. The oil is also used for sprains of muscle tissue, bruises and relieves pain. In addition, the product strengthens small blood vessels, which are located quite close to the skin. As a result, the healing of bruises and bruises is greatly accelerated.

Oil based on chaga also helps to cope with runny nose and maxillary sinusitis, because it has a negative effect on pathogens. To get rid of the unpleasant signs of colds, the oil is applied to the sinuses and rubbed lightly.

Cosmetic Applications

Chaga is also used for cosmetic purposes. Because of its properties, it helps to restore damaged hair and restore a healthy complexion.

Folk medicine recommends using the following remedy:

• 2 tablespoons of crushed chaga;
• 100 ml of cream.

The components are mixed until homogeneous mass and put in a water bath, where heated for 15 minutes. Then strain the remedy. It is applied to a napkin in a small amount and put on the face for 10 minutes. After the procedure, moisturizing cream is applied to the skin.

You can also prepare a lotion to clean the pores. For its preparation, a tablespoon of pre-crushed fungus brewed in a glass of boiling water and infused until the solution cools. The resulting infusion smeared on the skin with a napkin after washing.

All tools allow you to tighten the skin and get rid of wrinkles, make the skin supple, return its healthy color.

Chaga is also used to strengthen the hair. Infusions, thanks to the composition of the birch mushroom, help reduce the greasiness of the scalp, eliminate dandruff. In popular folk cosmetology use mask, which is prepared according to the following recipe:

1. Dry mushroom, previously crushed, in the amount of 2 tablespoons pour 70 ml of olive oil.
2. Stir thoroughly and let stand in a dark place.
3. The mask is rubbed into the scalp and left on the hair for an hour. The head is covered with a towel to keep it warm. Then everything is rinsed off with warm running water.

It is recommended to make the mask once a week. Its regular use will protect the hair from the harmful effects of external factors, to restore their shine and beauty.

How to drink chaga as a preventive measure

For preventive purposes, especially during the season of flu and colds, chaga is drunk in small portions and in the form of a weak solution. Usually a tea is used. It is consumed three times a day by 200 ml.

Due to its properties, chaga will significantly reduce the risk of many pathologies, increase immunity. Also for prevention, you can use a decoction, which is diluted with water before use to reduce the concentration.

Harm and contraindications

Despite the many useful properties, if improperly prepared infusions and their use, chaga can cause harm to the body. Most often begins to manifest allergic reactions in the form of rash, redness and irritation on the skin.

Also birch mushroom has also contraindications for use. These include:

• Colitis.
• Taking antibiotics.
• Dysentery.
• Allergic reaction.
• Use of drugs with glucose for intravenous injection.
• Period of pregnancy and breast-feeding.
• Individual intolerance.

Irreparable harm to the body chaga can cause in the presence of neurological disorders and diseases. Specialists recommend consulting a doctor before using the means of traditional medicine based on fungus.

Birch mushroom is a valuable and useful product that has many beneficial properties. But it can have a positive impact on the body only when used correctly. Before using it, you should make sure that there are no contraindications. It is also important when preparing infusions, balm and solution to observe the dosage, technology and rules of admission. Only in this way will chaga bring invaluable benefits to the body.

Photo of birch mushroom