CHAGA Mushroom Powder | Inonotus obliquus

Chaga mushrooms (Inonotus obliquus) grow wild in places like Siberia, Northern Canada, Alaska and some northern areas of the United States. They are a type of fungus that mainly grows on the outside of Birch trees in very cold climates. They also can be found on Beech, Alder, Chestnut and Hornbeam trees. Ironically, this medicinal fungus eventually kills its host tree.

Chaga mushroom identification isn’t too difficult since they have such a distinct appearance. They tend to be lumpy with an exterior that looks similar to burnt charcoal with a softer, squishy yellow-orange core. The name ‘Chaga’ comes from the Russian word for ‘Mushroom’. These mushrooms have also been called ’Black Gold’.

When Chaga mushrooms grow on Birch trees, as they commonly do, they are quite a sight to see. Not only do they look like burnt wood, but they also can grow in a clump that ends up being as big as a soccer ball.

Like other medicinal mushrooms, Chaga mushrooms requires the introduction of hot water or alcohol to break down it’s tough cellular walls to make the benefits of the mushroom available for human consumption.

Nowadays, mushroom coffee and teas are gaining popularity. Chaga mushroom was used as a coffee substitute during World Wars I and II.