What Are Chaga Mushrooms?

Highest ORAC Value

Chaga mushrooms are renowned for their exceptional antioxidant capabilities, making them a true powerhouse in the fungal kingdom. With one of the highest ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) values on Earth, Chaga stands out for its ability to neutralize free radicals and safeguard our antioxidant defenses against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress, an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, can lead to cellular damage and pave the way for various diseases. In fact, it can even trigger the activation of inflammatory mediators, exacerbating the inflammatory processes underlying several medical conditions [1]. However, Chaga's abundant compounds with potent antioxidant activity work diligently to counteract this oxidative stress, shielding us from disease development, preventing premature aging, and alleviating the burden of stress on our bodies [1].

The Antioxidant Powerhouse

Renowned for its potent antioxidant properties, the Chaga mushroom offers impressive protection against oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases. Extensive research has unveiled the rich antioxidant content of Chaga, including phenols, flavonoids, and melanin, which effectively scavenge free radicals and neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) [2,3]. Additionally, Chaga demonstrates the ability to enhance the activity of essential antioxidant enzymes in the body, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase [4]. These enzymes play a pivotal role in breaking down harmful ROS and safeguarding cells from damage. Moreover, Chaga's antioxidant properties extend to inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which are recognized contributors to oxidative stress [5]. By mitigating these factors, Chaga mushrooms act as a robust shield against oxidative stress, providing a potent protective mechanism for overall health and well-being.

King of Mushrooms

Chaga mushrooms, scientifically known as Inonotus obliquus, are a remarkable species of fungi that have gained significant attention for their potential health benefits. Found predominantly in the northern regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, Chaga mushrooms grow on the bark of birch trees and can be recognized by their distinctive black, charcoal-like appearance. These unique mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, where they are often referred to as the "King of Mushrooms" or the "Diamond of the Forest."

Featured Fungi

Protect Now - Organic Chaga 8:1 Dual Extract Capsules

$64.99

Protect Now - Organic Chaga 8:1 Dual Extract Capsules

$64.99

The Benefits Of Chaga

The Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) stands as a remarkable natural treasure, celebrated for its diverse array of health-promoting properties. This unique fungi, revered in traditional medicine, holds immense potential in various realms of well-being.

Slows The Aging Process

Among its many skin benefits, Chaga may slow the process of aging. In the battle against premature aging, the accumulation of free radicals within our bodies wreaks havoc on our skin. However, one study showcased the protective effects of Chaga against oxidative stress-induced cell death and premature deterioration in human fibroblasts, fundamental biological processes underlying aging [6]. Chaga also demonstrated its ability to counteract sun-induced aging by suppressing morphologic skin changes like thickening and wrinkle formation caused by UV exposure [6].

Collagen Synthesis

Chaga's impact on collagen synthesis is also noteworthy. By inhibiting the activities of MMP-1 and MMP-9, key matrix metalloproteinases that degrade various types of collagens in the body, Chaga fosters an environment conducive to increased collagen production [6,7]. This is especially crucial since the natural aging process leads to diminished collagen production, contributing to skin dryness and wrinkle formation.

Protection Against UV Exposure

To expand upon the potential of Chaga to protect against UV exposure, it is important to note that UVA and UVB radiation have the potential to indirectly damage the DNA in our skin cells and result in genetic defects or mutations that may progress to premature aging, or even skin cancer [8]. While we are well aware of the importance of daily sunscreen application, it's worth noting that even areas of the skin not commonly exposed to the sun, such as the back, can accumulate genomic DNA changes caused by UV radiation [9]. However, one study shed light on Chaga's potential impact on minimizing DNA damage resulting from UV exposure. The experiment, conducted on embryonic zebrafish, showcased the significant reduction of genetic information impairment in cells treated with Chaga, which was attributed to the mushroom's polysaccharides and their ability to enhance the expression of DNA repair genes [10]. Consequently, Chaga may mitigate the extent of DNA damage that can arise from frequent sun exposure, offering a potential shield against the sun's harmful effects.

Improve Wound Healing

Chaga also contains high levels of beta-glucans. Beta-glucans are natural cell wall polysaccharides found in fungi that have been identified as biological response modifiers as they possess many biological activities that can modulate the immune system. In dermatology, beta-glucans have been recognized for their ability to improve wound healing due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, rejuvenating and regenerative effects [11].

Slows The Aging Process

Among its many skin benefits, Chaga may slow the process of aging. In the battle against premature aging, the accumulation of free radicals within our bodies wreaks havoc on our skin. However, one study showcased the protective effects of Chaga against oxidative stress-induced cell death and premature deterioration in human fibroblasts, fundamental biological processes underlying aging [6]. Chaga also demonstrated its ability to counteract sun-induced aging by suppressing morphologic skin changes like thickening and wrinkle formation caused by UV exposure [6].

Collagen Synthesis

Chaga's impact on collagen synthesis is also noteworthy. By inhibiting the activities of MMP-1 and MMP-9, key matrix metalloproteinases that degrade various types of collagens in the body, Chaga fosters an environment conducive to increased collagen production [6,7]. This is especially crucial since the natural aging process leads to diminished collagen production, contributing to skin dryness and wrinkle formation.

Protection Against UV Exposure

To expand upon the potential of Chaga to protect against UV exposure, it is important to note that UVA and UVB radiation have the potential to indirectly damage the DNA in our skin cells and result in genetic defects or mutations that may progress to premature aging, or even skin cancer [8]. While we are well aware of the importance of daily sunscreen application, it's worth noting that even areas of the skin not commonly exposed to the sun, such as the back, can accumulate genomic DNA changes caused by UV radiation [9]. However, one study shed light on Chaga's potential impact on minimizing DNA damage resulting from UV exposure. The experiment, conducted on embryonic zebrafish, showcased the significant reduction of genetic information impairment in cells treated with Chaga, which was attributed to the mushroom's polysaccharides and their ability to enhance the expression of DNA repair genes [10]. Consequently, Chaga may mitigate the extent of DNA damage that can arise from frequent sun exposure, offering a potential shield against the sun's harmful effects.

Improve Wound Healing

Chaga also contains high levels of beta-glucans. Beta-glucans are natural cell wall polysaccharides found in fungi that have been identified as biological response modifiers as they possess many biological activities that can modulate the immune system. In dermatology, beta-glucans have been recognized for their ability to improve wound healing due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, rejuvenating and regenerative effects [11].

EVERSIO WELLNESS

Better In A Blend

Functional mushrooms are powerful on their own, but when combined, they create a synergy that amplifies their benefits, known as the entourage effect." This natural phenomenon occurs when the diverse bioactive compounds found in different mushroom species work together, enhancing each other's effects and supporting overall wellness more effectively than any single mushroom could alone.

Whether it's strengthening immunity, improving cognitive function, or enhancing energy levels, the combined power of these mushrooms provides a more balanced and potent impact on your health, helping you achieve holistic well-being.

Eversio Wellness

Protect Now - Organic Chaga 8:1 Dual Extract Capsules

$64.99

4.9

Optimize cellular health with PROTECT Now. Our Chaga mushroom extract capsules deliver powerful antioxidants to defend against free radical damage.

Our PROTECT NOW Chaga mushroom extract capsules deliver maximum potency through an 8:1 dual extract of organic, wild-harvested chaga sclerotia (the part of the mushroom that grows on the outside of trees).

A mushroom of cultural importance for the people of Russia and Siberia, chaga is known for both ritual and remedy. Chaga has also been an ancient restorative for some indigenous groups across Canada (the Cree, Denesuline, and Ojibway).

Chaga mushroom extract boasts one of the planet's highest ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) values. This means it's exceptionally potent at neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.*

Fungi Fact! - Chaga contains roughly 50 times the antioxidant power of blueberries.

Packaging Type: Jar

Jar Pouch

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The Fungi Fineprint

The sections below provide valuable insights into functional mushrooms' benefits, safety, research, and practical use. These notes help you better understand how these powerful natural ingredients can support your health and well-being. Whether you're new to functional mushrooms or looking to deepen your knowledge, you'll find helpful information right here to guide your wellness journey.

Benefits Summarized

Chaga's rich composition includes antioxidants, polysaccharides, terpenoids like betulinic acid, and other bioactive compounds, which contribute to its impressive effects. Chaga exhibits potent antioxidant capabilities, shielding the body from oxidative stress and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

It showcases anti-inflammatory actions by modulating key signalling pathways and inhibiting the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators. Moreover, Chaga displays intriguing tumor-suppressive effects, autophagy induction, and immune-modulating properties.

Studies indicate its potential in supporting immune function, combating viral infections, and addressing allergic reactions. Chaga also demonstrates promise in the realm of metabolic health, exhibiting anti-diabetic activities by enhancing glucose control, improving insulin sensitivity, and influencing metabolic pathways.

With its diverse range of benefits, Chaga mushroom emerges as a compelling natural resource, offering a holistic approach to promoting wellness and supporting overall health.

Health & Safety

Chaga mushroom is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts as a food or dietary supplement. However, some individuals may experience side effects, particularly if they consume large amounts of Chaga or if they have certain health conditions [31]. Chaga contains oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stones in susceptible individuals. It may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners or diabetes medications. Additionally, some people may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, when consuming Chaga in large amounts.

It is always recommended to consult with a health care provider before taking any new supplement if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking any medications. ONE CAPSULE of our concentrated Chaga extract is a maximum acceptable daily dose.

For optimal consumption, Health Canada advises individuals to limit their intake of dried Chaga fruiting body to a maximum of 3600mg per day. Our Chaga product, PROTECT NOW, is an 8:1 dual extract and boasts an impressive composition with >35% beta-glucans, >5% triterpenes, and >3% betulinic acid. At Eversio Wellness, we recommend a daily consumption of 450mg of our Chaga extract, which is equivalent to a crude quantity of 3600mg (calculated as 450mg x 8:1 = 3600mg).

Research & References

[1] Alhallaf W, Perkins LB. The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Chaga Extracts Obtained by Different Extraction Methods against LPS-Induced RAW 264.7. Molecules. 2022 Jun 30;27(13):4207. doi: 10.3390/molecules27134207. PMID: 35807453; PMCID: PMC9268247.

[2] Zheng W, Miao K, Liu Y, Zhao Y, Zhang M. Phenolics from Inonotus obliquus and their antioxidant and antitumor activities. Food Funct. 2018;9(7):3420-3431. doi:10.1039/c8fo00090a

[3] Wang Y, Liu Y, Du X, Ma H, Yao J. Inonotus obliquus polysaccharide regulates gut microbiota of chronic pancreatitis in mice. AMB Express. 2020;10(1):130. doi:10.1186/s13568-020-01068-4

[4] Choi JY, Shin KM, Kim HM, et al. Antioxidative effects of Phellinus linteus and red ginseng extracts on oxidative stress-induced DNA damage. J Med Food. 2006;9(1):35-42. doi:10.1089/jmf.2006.9.35

[5]Shen D, Feng Y, Zhang X, Liu J, Gong L, Liao H, Li R. In Vitro Immunomodulatory Effects of Inonotus obliquus Extracts on Resting M0 Macrophages and LPS-Induced M1 Macrophages.Evid Based Complement Alternate Med. 2022 Apr 21;2022:8251344. doi: 10.1155/2022/8251344. PMID: 35497923; PMCID: PMC9050302.

[6] Yun JS, Pahk JW, Lee JS, Shin WC, Lee SY, Hong EK. Inonotus obliquus protects
against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and premature senescence. Mol
Cells. 2011 May;31(5):423-9. doi: 10.1007/s10059-011-0256-7. Epub 2011 Feb 22.
PMID: 21359681; PMCID: PMC3887607.

[7] Vincenti, M.P., Brinckerhoff, C.E. Transcriptional regulation of collagenase (MMP-1, MMP-13) genes in arthritis: integration of complex signaling pathways for the recruitment of gene-specific transcription factors. Arthritis Res Ther 4, 157 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1186/ar401

[8] UV radiation. The Skin Cancer Foundation. (2022, July 21). Retrieved November 3, 2022, from https://www.skincancer.org/risk-factors/uv-radiation/

[9] ScienceDaily. (2021, January 14). Even skin shielded from the sun accumulates genomic DNA changes from UV light. ScienceDaily. Retrieved November 3, 2022, from
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/01/210114163929.htm

[10] Eid JI, Al-Tuwaijri MM, Mohanty S, Das B. Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) polysaccharides exhibit genoprotective effects in UVB-exposed embryonic zebrafish (Danio rerio) through coordinated expression of DNA repair genes. Heliyon. 2021 Feb 4;7(2):e06003. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06003. Erratum in: Heliyon. 2021 Jun 08;7(6):e07235. PMID: 33598573; PMCID: PMC7868817.

[11] Majtan J, Jesenak M. β-Glucans: Multi-Functional Modulator of Wound Healing. Molecules. 2018 Apr 1;23(4):806. doi: 10.3390/molecules23040806. PMID: 29614757; PMCID: PMC6017669.

[12] Arata S, Watanabe J, Maeda M, Yamamoto M, Matsuhashi H, Mochizuki M, Kagami N, Honda K, Inagaki M. Continuous intake of the Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) aqueous extract suppresses cancer progression and maintains body temperature in mice. Heliyon. 2016 May 12;2(5):e00111. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2016.e00111. PMID: 27441282; PMCID:
PMC4946216.

[13] Lee MG, Kwon YS, Nam KS, Kim SY, Hwang IH, Kim S, Jang H. Chaga mushroom
extract induces autophagy via the AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway in breast cancer
cells. J Ethnopharmacol. 2021 Jun 28;274:114081. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114081. Epub 2021 Mar 30. PMID: 33798660.

[14] Yun CW, Lee SH. The Roles of Autophagy in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci. 2018 Nov 5;19(11):3466. doi: 10.3390/ijms19113466. PMID: 30400561; PMCID: PMC6274804.

[15] Géry A, Dubreule C, André V, Rioult JP, Bouchart V, Heutte N, Eldin de Pécoulas P, Krivomaz T, Garon D. Chaga ( Inonotus obliquus), a Future Potential Medicinal Fungus in Oncology? A Chemical Study and a Comparison of the Cytotoxicity Against Human Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells (A549) and Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells (BEAS-2B). Integr Cancer Ther. 2018 Sep;17(3):832-843. doi: 10.1177/1534735418757912. Epub 2018 Feb 27. PMID: 29484963; PMCID: PMC6142110.

[16] Fulda S. Betulinic Acid for cancer treatment and prevention. Int J Mol Sci. 2008 Jun;9(6):1096-1107. doi: 10.3390/ijms9061096. Epub 2008 Jun 27. PMID: 19325847; PMCID: PMC2658785.

[17] Choi SY, Hur SJ, An CS, Jeon YH, Jeoung YJ, Bak JP, Lim BO. Anti-inflammatory
effects of Inonotus obliquus in colitis induced by dextran sodium sulfate. J Biomed Biotechnol. 2010;2010:943516. doi: 10.1155/2010/943516. Epub 2010 Mar 10. PMID: 20300439; PMCID: PMC2840610.

[18] Alhallaf W, Perkins LB. The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Chaga Extracts Obtained by Different Extraction Methods against LPS-Induced RAW 264.7. Molecules. 2022 Jun 30;27(13):4207. doi: 10.3390/molecules27134207. PMID: 35807453; PMCID: PMC9268247.

[19] Wang J, Wang C, Li S, Li W, Yuan G, Pan Y, Chen H. Anti-diabetic effects of Inonotus obliquus polysaccharides in streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic mice and potential mechanism via PI3K-Akt signal pathway. Biomed Pharmacother. 2017 Nov;95:1669-1677. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.09.104. Epub 2017 Oct 6. PMID: 28954386.

[20] Huang X, Liu G, Guo J, Su Z. The PI3K/AKT pathway in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Int J Biol Sci. 2018 Aug 6;14(11):1483-1496. doi: 10.7150/ijbs.27173. PMID: 30263000; PMCID: PMC6158718.

[21] Joshi T, Singh AK, Haratipour P, Sah AN, Pandey AK, Naseri R, Juyal V, Farzaei MH. Targeting AMPK signaling pathway by natural products for treatment of diabetes mellitus and its complications. J Cell Physiol. 2019 Aug;234(10):17212-17231. doi:
10.1002/jcp.28528. Epub 2019 Mar 27. PMID: 30916407.

[22] Coughlan KA, Valentine RJ, Ruderman NB, Saha AK. AMPK activation: a therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes? Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes. 2014 Jun 24;7:241-53. doi: 10.2147/DMSO.S43731. PMID: 25018645; PMCID: PMC4075959.

[23] Zhang Z, Liang X, Tong L, Lv Y, Yi H, Gong P, Tian X, Cui Q, Liu T, Zhang L. Effect
of Inonotus obliquus (Fr.) Pilat extract on the regulation of glycolipid metabolism via PI3K/Akt and AMPK/ACC pathways in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2021 Jun 12;273:113963. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.113963. Epub 2021 Feb 26. PMID: 33640441.

[24] Pan HH, Yu XT, Li T, Wu HL, Jiao CW, Cai MH, Li XM, Xie YZ, Wang Y, Peng T. Aqueous extract from a Chaga medicinal mushroom, Inonotus obliquus (higher
Basidiomycetes), prevents herpes simplex virus entry through inhibition of
viral-induced membrane fusion. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2013;15(1):29-38. doi:
10.1615/intjmedmushr.v15.i1.40. PMID: 23510282.

[25] Polkovnikova MV, Nosik NN, Garaev TM, Kondrashina NG, Finogenova MP, Shibnev VA. [A study of the antiherpetic activity of the chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) extracts in the Vero cells infected with the herpes simplex virus]. Vopr Virusol. 2014 Mar-Apr;59(2):45-8. Russian. PMID: 25069286.

[26] Deo SS, Mistry KJ, Kakade AM, Niphadkar PV. Role played by Th2 type
cytokines in IgE mediated allergy and asthma. Lung India. 2010 Apr;27(2):66-71. doi: 10.4103/0970-2113.63609. PMID: 20616938; PMCID: PMC2893428.

[27] Yoon TJ, Lee SJ, Kim EY, Cho EH, Kang TB, Yu KW, Suh HJ. Inhibitory effect
of chaga mushroom extract on compound 48/80-induced anaphylactic shock and IgE
production in mice. Int Immunopharmacol. 2013 Apr;15(4):666-70. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2013.03.015. Epub 2013 Mar 25. PMID: 23535020.

[28] Szychowski KA, Skóra B, Pomianek T, Gmiński J. Inonotus obliquus - from folk
medicine to clinical use. J Tradit Complement Med. 2020 Aug 22;11(4):293-302. doi: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2020.08.003. PMID: 34195023; PMCID: PMC8240111.

[29] Amin K. The role of mast cells in allergic inflammation. Respir Med. 2012 Jan;106(1):9-14. doi: 10.1016/j.rmed.2011.09.007. Epub 2011 Nov 22. PMID: 22112783.

[30] Nguyet TMN, Lomunova M, Le BV, Lee JS, Park SK, Kang JS, Kim YH, Hwang I. The mast cell stabilizing activity of Chaga mushroom critical for its therapeutic
effect on food allergy is derived from inotodiol. Int Immunopharmacol. 2018 Jan;54:286-295. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2017.11.025. Epub 2017 Nov 24. PMID: 29175507.

[31] https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-chaga-mushrooms

Where To Buy

In the vast market of medicinal mushrooms, it becomes imperative to prioritize awareness of the product's composition to ensure the utmost potency. At Eversio Wellness, our commitment lies in offering exclusively 100% fruiting body mushroom extracts, maintaining a transparent approach towards consumers by providing Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for each product. These COAs serve as a reassurance, scientifically confirming the claimed percentages of beneficial constituents through meticulous lab testing. Furthermore, the COAs also verify the absence of heavy metals and microbial contaminants, assuring customers of receiving the finest mushroom supplements available. There has never been a more opportune moment to explore the world of online mushroom purchases.

It is also important to ensure that your Chaga product has gone through a dual extraction process. Dual extraction combines the benefits of both hot water and alcohol extraction methods. In this approach, the mushroom material is subjected to sequential extraction using both water and alcohol solvents. This method aims to capture a wider spectrum of bioactive compounds present in mushrooms, including both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble components. Dual extraction is often preferred when targeting a comprehensive range of beneficial compounds and maximizing the potential health benefits of the mushroom extract.

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Eversio means change. Our mission is to change lives through fungi. We intend to do that by offering the best functional mushroom supplements available today.

Eversio Wellness products deliver the benefits of functional mushrooms with premium-grade fruiting body extract products that are vegan, created in a Canadian GMP Certified facility, USDA Organic Certified, non-GMO, third party lab tested, and super concentrated. Each capsule or ½ tsp of our extract blends delivers a FULL BENEFICIAL DOSE in line with current research.