Chaga mushroom may not be the most appealing herb but it’s health benefits are to die for. Check out the nutritious Chaga chai latte recipe.
Want to try something different from the typical breakfast of milk, juice, or fruit? Why not try a Chaga mushroom chai latte for a change? Known for its antioxidants, zinc, and phytonutrients, Chaga is a medicinal mushroom that grows on birch trees in cold regions. Like other ancient natural remedies, Chaga has been used for centuries as a health-promoting herb.
Today, we will show you how to make an organic Chaga chai latte with all-natural ingredients. We will combine the powerful properties of Chaga with various aromatic spices and nourishing almond milk to whip up a refreshing and invigorating elixir.
However, as usual, we must first tell you what Chaga mushroom is and how it benefits your body. Then, we will show you how to create that delightful latte. With that said, let’s look at the health benefits of Chaga mushrooms.
What is Chaga Mushroom?
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Chaga mushroom, whose scientific name is Inonotus obliquus, is a fungus that grows mainly on birch trees and is commonly found in colder climates of Northern Europe, Northern Canada, Russia, Korea, Siberia, and America’s Arctic.
The herb has a somewhat unappealing appearance but is quite popular for its medicinal properties and has been widely used as a natural medicine.
Chaga is also known by different names, including cinder conk, black mass, birch canker polypore, and sterile conk trunk rot of birch tree. Chaga typically grows into a conk or a clunk that resembles burnt charcoal about 10 to 15 inches in size. However, the inside is soft with a bright orange color.
Chaga mushroom has been used in Siberia, Russia, and Scandinavian countries as an immune booster for treating different ailments such as cancer, diabetes, and heart diseases. Ideally, Chaga mushroom can be grated into fine powder for brewing herbal tea.
However, in modern recipes, it’s mostly available as powder, capsules, and tablets. Research into Chaga’s nutritional value is still limited, although evidence shows the herb is rich in fiber and antioxidants while low in calories.
What are the Health Benefits of Chaga?
Research into the full medical potential of Chaga is still in progress, but preliminary studies show that the herb does have several health benefits, including:
- Natural immune boost: Chaga mushrooms are rich in antioxidants such as beta-glucans, melanin, and polysaccharides, which are natural immune boosters. These compounds help protect cells from oxidative stress, lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Chaga contains bioactive compounds such as betulinic acid and triterpenoids, which are rich in anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent inflammation and support joint health.
- Improve energy and endurance: Chaga contains ergosterol, a unique compound which, when exposed to sunlight, can be converted into vitamin D. Vitamin D helps increase energy production, helping alleviate fatigue and boost endurance.
- Supports digestive health: Traditionally, Chaga was used to aid digestion and increase gastrointestinal health. It’s High in dietary fibers that support gut health and prevent digestive issues.
- Mental clarity and focus: Studies show that Chaga can support brain health thanks to its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, promoting mental clarity and cognitive function.
How To Make Chaga Chai Latte
Now that you understand the health benefits of taking Chaga mushrooms as an herbal medicine, would you like to try a simple organic Chaga elixir? If so, let’s make a quick latte with this Chaga chai recipe. Preparation time: 5 minutes
Equipment you’ll need:
- Mug
- Teaspoon
- Whisk
- Strainer
- Sharp knife
- A small bowl for mixing
- A saucepan or pot
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon of dried Chaga mushroom or powder
- 1 cup water
- 1-star anise
- 1/2 a seedless vanilla pod
- 5-8 cardamom pods, slightly crushed
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 cup organic plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut)
- 1-inch fresh ginger, sliced
- 2-4 black peppercorns
- A pinch of nutmeg, grounded (optional)
Instructions:
- Add the dried Chaga mushroom or powder and water in a saucepan or pot. Simmer it gently on medium heat.
- Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, black peppercorns, and sliced ginger. Allow to dimmer again for another 10-15 minutes until all the flavors have infused.
- After simmering, add your preferred organic milk.
- Remove from the fire and strain into a mug or teapot. Straining makes it easy to drink and enjoy the Chaga chai latte without obstruction from the residues. Discard the residues from the saucepan.
- You can add your favorite sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup. If you like, you can also sprinkle some ground nutmeg for enhanced flavor, although this is optional.
Pro tip: Source your Chaga from reputable suppliers if you want an all-natural, potent herb of the highest quality. Use organic milk, especially plant-based options such as coconut, almond, or oat.
A Word On Using Chaga Mushroom Herb
There is no research that supports the use of Chaga in pregnant and nursing mothers, so to be safe, avoid using the herb during pregnancy. Since the FDA does not regulate Chaga, you should source your herbs from reputable sources.
As a natural immune booster, Chaga contains anti-inflammatory properties, so consult your doctor if you have an autoimmune disorder before taking Chaga.
Finally, Chaga can help prevent blood clotting, so it’s best to seek professional recommendations if you’re using blood thinners or set to undergo surgery.
Disclaimer: Organic Health Bloom is a resource platform for information on alternative medicine and organic herbs. Our content should be used for informational purposes only and not as a substitute for evidence-based treatment. We advise our readers to seek professional advice and treatment for serious or chronic health conditions.
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