Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a mushroom that grows in the temperate regions of the Earth and is known as “King of the Medicinal Herbs.” Used for thousands of years, Chaga is revered for being the most adaptogenic substance on the earth, supporting your body to return to its natural capacity to resist stress. It has been used by shamans and herbalists as the ultimate tonic to support immune-building that specialises in adapting the body towards a revered level of health.
Supports:
High antioxidant content - ORAC of 50,000
Building of the immune system
Assist the body to adapt to external and internal stress
Immune Defences
High levels of anti-ageing enzyme superoxide dismutase
Protective of the skin and the DNA
Best food source of melanin
Nutrient density, containing B vitamins, flavonoids, phenols, minerals, and enzymes
So, all in all, a freak'n amazing little fungus! Quite different from those mushrooms you picked up in Camden when you were living in London many moons ago… or hang on, was that just me?
Anyhooo...
I personally started taking Chaga at the beginning of winter after I couldn't seem to shake a cold and I didn't get sick again, even when everyone else around me was really unwell. This is quite amazing for me because usually I just look at someone who is sick and come down with the same thing.
Research shows that Chaga actually significantly boosts your immune system. So much so, that I would recommend caution to those suffering from auto immune diseases.
You might wonder what on earth it tastes like, and I can say it's fairly close to bad instant coffee. Which is why many people add it to hot chocolates and coffee. It's barely noticeable when prepared this way.
Here is a recipe for a delicious Cacao and Chaga hot chocolate, that is so indulgent and nourishing it feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
CACAO & CHAGA HOT CHOCOLATE
Ingredients
1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
1/2 teaspoon Chaga powder (I used SuperFeast Chaga)
1/4 cup coconut cream
3/4 cup hot water
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
6 drops stevia
Method
Add all the ingredients to a blender and whizz briefly.
Enjoy!