Chaga (Tschaga) for pets

The fruiting body of Chaga grows on various species of birch, but also on other trees, such as beech, ash and elm. It is a parasitic growing fungus. Very well it can be recognized by its bulbous shape and black coloration.

This vital mushroom contains a variety of valuable and medically effective ingredients. Thus, it is rich in various sterols. In addition to ergosterol and lanosterol, the valuable inotodiol, to which a strong anti-cancer effect is attributed, is particularly noteworthy here. In addition to polysaccharides and flavonoids (quercetin, etc.), chaga also contains various triterpenes.

Most notable is betulin, a lupane-type triterpene derivative. Betulin is the precursor of betulinic acid and is absorbed by Chaga from birch. It has an anti-cancer effect, especially in skin cancer. In addition to various minerals and trace elements, Chaga also contains small amounts of oxalic acid.

Certainly one of the most interesting ingredients of this medicinal mushroom is melanin, which in connection with Chaga is often called melanin complex. Melanin has a strong antioxidant effect and is produced by Chaga to protect itself from oxidative stress. This medicinal mushroom probably also owes its beneficial effect on the skin to melanin. In particular, its protective function against UV rays should be mentioned. In addition, its use in malignant melanoma has been shown to be recommended.
In Russian folk medicine, Chaga has been used for centuries, primarily for inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Likewise also for ulcers and cancers of the digestive tract. Good results can also be achieved with a water extract from the Chaga in case of worm infestation.