Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Family: Hymenochaetaceae

Part Used: Sclerotium (conk)

Flavor/Aroma: Earthy, Bitter, Woody

Energetics: Warming

 

Overview:

Chaga is a striking fungus that grows primarily on birch trees in cold northern climates. Known for its dark, cracked exterior and rich, earthy flavor, Chaga has been valued for centuries in traditional medicine systems for its purported adaptogenic and nourishing qualities.

Chaga is a parasitic fungus that develops as a dense, irregularly shaped conk on birch trees. Its outer layer is black and charred-looking, while the interior is a rich, golden-brown. Chaga grows slowly, often taking several years to reach harvestable size, and thrives in cold, temperate forests with healthy birch populations.

Cultivation and Harvesting:

Wild Chaga is primarily found in Siberia, Russia, Northern Europe, and Northern North America. It grows almost exclusively on mature birch trees, typically 20 years or older, and the health of the host tree directly affects the size and quality of the fungus. Chaga grows very slowly, often taking 5–10 years to reach a harvestable size, which makes sustainable harvesting practices essential. Responsible harvesters carefully remove only a portion of the conk, leaving some on the tree to regenerate, helping preserve both the tree and the surrounding forest ecosystem. Chaga prefers cold climates, and environmental factors such as temperature, snowfall, and sunlight influence its growth rate.

Southern Oregon Cultivation:

In Southern Oregon, Chaga is rare. While it can be found in Oregon, it is not as common as in regions like Alaska or the northeastern United States. Chaga typically grows on the trunks of mature birch trees in the northern hemisphere, and the best time to forage for it is during the winter, when the dark conks stand out against the snow. Although smaller or younger conks are occasionally found locally, most commercially available Chaga is responsibly harvested from northern forests. Some herbalists in Southern Oregon have also experimented with cultivating birch logs or plantings in controlled areas to support sustainable, local Chaga growth.

History and Folklore:

Chaga has a long history in Siberian, Russian, and Eastern European folk medicine. It was traditionally brewed as a decoction to support overall wellness, immunity, and endurance during harsh winters. It was also used topically for skin conditions and applied in poultices to aid healing.

Modern Applications:

Today, Chaga is appreciated as a nutritional and adaptogenic fungus. It is commonly used to support general wellness, antioxidant intake, and mild immune support. Research has explored its polysaccharides and antioxidants for potential benefits in oxidative stress, cellular health, and vitality.

Uses and Preparations:

Tincture: 

2–5 mL per day, or as directed by a practitioner. Tinctures can be strong and earthy; diluting in water or tea can help improve flavor.

Tea / Decoction:

Chaga is traditionally prepared as a decoction rather than a quick infusion. Break the conk into small chunks or coarse powder and simmer in water for 1–4 hours to extract its compounds fully. Enjoy warm, alone or blended with herbs like cinnamon, ginger, or licorice root for enhanced flavor.

Recommended Usage:

It is important to remember that some bodies may react differently than others when using herbal products. Our recommended usage amounts are designed to be an average dosage only. If you have specific concerns about the usage amount or interaction with other medication, please consult with your doctor or health care practitioner prior to using our products.

Precautions:

Chaga may affect blood sugar and interact with anticoagulant medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare practitioner before use. Mild digestive upset is possible in some individuals.

References:

1. Wachtel-Galor, S., Benzie, I. F. F. (2011). Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd Edition.
2. Zhang, J., et al. (2012). Chemical composition and bioactivity of Inonotus obliquus (Chaga) extracts. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 141(2), 651–657.
   

For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.