Chaga is the king of medicinal mushrooms.
What is Chaga?
Chaga is an incredible wild mushroom with immune boosting, therapeutic properties. In fact, it actually grows on the sides of birch trees in colder climates like Siberia, Alaska, northern Canada and northern continental states in America. It has tremendously high antioxidant values and is so powerful it can even kill the tree in which is grows on, hence great for fighting and preventing cancer. The best part about this awesome fungus-like mushroom is it has a flavor that likens to coffee, so it is a wonderful substitute for that second cup in the afternoon, as it won’t spiral your blood sugar out of control, nor will it increase your stress hormones. In fact, chaga was actually substituted for coffee during World War I and II because it enhances energy and tastes so similar to coffee.
The following benefits have been sited from consuming Chaga:
The Benefits of Chaga
- Boosts the Immune System
- Revitalizes White Blood Cells
- Anti-Viral/Fungal/Bacterial Properties
- Prevents & Combats Certain Cancers
- Reduces Inflammation
- Improves Strength & Endurance
- Regulates Blood Sugar/Aides Diabetes
- Boosts the Adrenals (regulates the endocrine system)
- Less Caffeine Than Coffee/Same Flavor
*Caution: consult with your Doctor before using if you are pregnant, breastfeeding and/or taking a prescription medication.
Other Medicinal Mushrooms
The above mushrooms all have very different, yet amazing health properties and are wonderful to incorporate into your mushroom latte recipes or to cook with. If you have digestion issues, it may be more beneficial health wise to purchase a high, quality organic powdered version of the mushroom, as it will be much easier for your body to assimilate and utilize the health properties. There are also combination powders available that incorporate all of these mushrooms together, which is a great option for on-the-go types, those who like to boost their immune system when traveling (especially during cold and flu season) or even simply to throw in smoothies.
Chaga Latte Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 teaspoon Chaga Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup warm coconut milk or almond milk
- 1 teaspoon raw honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp maca powder or Reishi (optional)
- 8 oz hot water
Directions:
Add the ingredients into a blender. Blend until well combined and frothy. You can also stir the ingredients together in your favorite mug and use a hand-held, electric frother to get a nice latte texture. Enjoy!
*Tip: When on-the-go, simply mix 1/2 teaspoon of chaga with warm water (not boiling) and 1 teaspoon of raw honey. This combination is a great substitute for your afternoon coffee. Not only are you boosting your immune system, but also balancing the endocrine system as well, which is so much better than regular coffee.
Wishing you divine health!
<3 Kristin
Resources:
William, A. (2016) Life Changing Foods. Hay House, Carlsbad, CA
Chaga Mushroom: 5 Health Benefits of this Ancient Remedy: https://draxe.com/chaga-mushroom/
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