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Monday, October 7
Chaga mushrooms can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation
The use of medicinal mushrooms dates back thousands of years, mainly in oriental medicine . Chaga mushrooms can offer different health benefits and their consumption is becoming popular in the West, this resurgence has been hand in hand with functional medicine.
Among its benefits, the Chaga mushroom can help stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
The Chaga mushroom grows on birch trees throughout the Northern Hemisphere. It has the appearance of a dark mass of earth rather than a mushroom and its interior is soft orange. Traditionally it was grated and prepared as tea. Currently it is possible to find this fungus in different supplements, as well as in tea and coffee powder.
Among the vitamins that these mushrooms can provide are B complex vitamins and vitamin D.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Chaga mushrooms can help fight inflammation. A review of 2020 published in Nutrients shows that these fungi decrease the release of inflammatory cytokines. They can also reduce the release of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 , two substances that play an important role in inflammatory processes in the body.
Chronic inflammation is associated to many diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, depression and Alzheimer’s.
Immune system support
Chaga mushroom has been used as a folk remedy for cancer, digestive system diseases and other diseases in Russia and Eastern Europe.
An investigation by 2011 published in the Journal Ethnopharmacology found that the extract of Chaga altered immune responses in mice .
The study suggests this fungus may help regulate the production of cytokines, supporting the immune system by helping cells communicate with each other. Cytokines are proteins that play a vital role in stimulating white blood cells. According to Medical News Today, this could help fight infections, from mild colds to life-threatening illnesses.
In a study conducted with cats, published in 2017, Chaga had antiviral effects against viral diseases such as herpes, flu and stomach infections.
Research is still required to demonstrate the antiviral and immune support benefits of Chaga mushroom in humans, so far the evidence looks promising.
Other benefits attributed to Chaga mushrooms include that can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol thanks to its antioxidants; as well as helping to lower blood sugar levels and delay the skin aging process.
Medical News Today warns that because Chaga mushroom lowers blood sugar, can be dangerous for people taking insulin and other lowering medications. blood sugar . It is advisable to consult your doctor before using Chaga.
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