Herbal Extract
Inonotus obliquus Extract (Fruiting Body)
Also known as: Chaga mushroom extract, Chaga, Inonotus obliquus, Scutiger obliquus
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a fungus that grows on birch trees, traditionally used in Scandinavian and Russian folk medicine. In vitro and animal studies suggest potential antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, but human clinical evidence remains limited.
Primary uses
- Immune support
- Antioxidant support
- General wellness
How it works
- Polysaccharide-mediated immune modulation (in vitro)
- Antioxidant activity via betulinic acid and melanin content
- Potential anti-inflammatory effects (preliminary)
Dosage
- Typical range
- 500–2000 mg daily (extract powder) or 1–3 g daily (crude powder)
- Timing
- Can be taken anytime; often mixed into beverages
- With food
- May be taken with or without food; hot water extraction common
- Duration
- Traditionally used long-term; safety data for extended use in humans is limited
- Special populations
- Pregnant/nursing women: insufficient safety data; autoimmune conditions: theoretical concern due to immune stimulation
Forms
- Powder extract· 70/100
- Capsules· 70/100
- Liquid extract· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Generally well-tolerated in short-term use
- Rare: mild GI upset, insomnia if taken late in day
Contraindications
- Severe autoimmune disorders (theoretical risk of immune over-stimulation)
- Scheduled surgery (may affect platelet aggregation in high doses)
- Pregnancy and nursing (insufficient safety data)
Evidence notes
Limited human clinical trials; most evidence comes from in vitro and animal studies. No robust RCT data in humans to support specific health claims. Traditional use is long-standing but does not constitute clinical evidence.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
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