Hymenochaetaceae
Chaga Mushroom
Inonotus obliquus
⚠ Use with Caution
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Northern Russia, Siberia, Canada, Northern Europe
Also known as: Birch Conk, Black Mass, Clinker Polypore
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Sclerotium
Therapeutic Uses
Immune support, cancer adjunct (betulinic acid), chronic inflammation, antiviral, liver support, energy. Traditional Russian medicine 400+ years.
Herbal Actions
Antioxidant, immunomodulator, antiviral, antitumor, hepatoprotective, adaptogen
Active Constituents
Beta-glucans (1,3/1,6), betulinic acid (from birch host), betulin, melanins (high antioxidant), polyphenols (hispidin), inotodiol
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea🏺 Tincture💊 Capsule
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 5–10g ground per 500ml, simmer 20 min, 2x daily |
| Tincture | Dual extract: 1–2g 2x daily |
| Notes | Hot water extraction required for beta-glucans. Dual extract adds betulinic acid. Harvest sustainably — kills the host tree. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Anticoagulants. Antidiabetics. Autoimmune (immunostimulant).
Side Effects: GI upset. Oxalate content (kidney stones, chronic high use). Very well tolerated generally.