Also known as Inonotus obliquus, Cinder conk, Chaga, Clinker polypore, Birch mushroom, Black Birch Touchwood, Crooked Schiller-porling Introduction Chaga is a mushroom, a parasitic carpophore that looks like the charred remains of burned wood on the side of a birch tree (sometimes growing on Elm and Alder, but Birch is its favorite). The parasite enters the tree through a ‘wound’ in the bark of a mature tree. It then grows under the bark until it erupts in a deeply cracked, black charcoal like extension. It usually takes another 5-7 years for it to fully mature, at which point it falls to the forest floor, most times killing the host tree in the process. Chaga has been a part of folk medicine in Russia, Poland, China and numerous Baltic countries for many centuries. It was documented by Chinese herbalist Shen Nong in his herbal texts as early as the first century B.C.E. Parts Used The entire mushroom is used in all preparations noted.

Even in the most prime Northern regions, Chaga conks are somewhat rare. Recent studies in China and Korea have shown that that Chaga is high in antioxidants, but the studies have yet been able to pinpoint why this is. It has been sold in Russia since the 1960’s as Befunigin, and is commonly found in many Russian households. Precautions None have been historically noted, but caution should be used when pregnant or breast feeding, and before giving to children. Discontinue use if allergic reactions occur.

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.