Tincture made from Inonotus obliquus also known as Chaga. This is a double extraction, where a 60oC decoction is prepared and then used as the water fraction in alcohol extraction. This ensures the the full range of desired compounds are extracted and preserved.
Ionotus obliquus, water, ethanol (25%)
Consuming chaga could cause hypoglycemia, or a drop in blood sugar. Chaga may also interfere with blood clotting. Therefore, those with bleeding disorders should avoid it, and anyone taking blood thinning medication should use it with caution. Do not use within two weeks of surgery.
Family: Polyporaceae
Part used: Fungal fruiting body
Habitat and Description: Chaga grows wild in the UK, Europe and Russia on several different trees including spruce, alder and birch. It appears as a black growth or conk on the tree and can resemble burnt charcoal, however it has a more orangey colour on the inside.
Constituents: Triterpenoids betulin and betulinic acid, polysaccharides, sterols, antioxidants, tannins, triterpenes.
Actions: Antiviral, antimicrobial, anticancer, antitumour, antioxidant, immunostimulant, hypoglycemic
Traditional and current uses:
Chaga is renowned across several countries for its medicinal properties, and was approved for public use against cancer in Moscow in 1955.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Max Drake Medical Herbalist disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.