Chaga: what it's used for, how to use it, and when to be cautious
Feb 28, 2026
Chaga: what it's for, how to use it and when to be cautious
Last updated: February 2026
In brief
Chaga is a parasitic fungus that grows mainly on the trunk of the birch (sclerotium of Inonotus obliquus, often also cited as Phellinus in popular literature). In Nordic and Siberian tradition it is known as a food-fungus used for everyday wellbeing. In a claim‑safe way, this article helps you understand in which situations it may make sense to include it in a supplementation routine, how to use it sensibly and which precautions to observe.
What you can do today:
- Decide whether you prefer a concentrated extract or powder/capsules based on what fits your routine best.
- If you take medications or have chronic conditions (e.g. unstable blood glucose, kidney stones), talk with your doctor before starting.
- Choose products with traceability of the raw material (birch origin, contaminant testing).
What chaga is
The term "chaga" refers to the sclerotium (reserve body) of the fungus Inonotus obliquus that develops mainly on birch trees. The black outer material and the pale orange inner flesh are rich in compounds typical of fungi, such as polysaccharides (e.g. beta‑glucans), triterpenes and fungal melanins; the raw material can also contain substances transferred from the host tree, such as certain birch-derived triterpenes.
We discuss chaga in terms of support and supplementation, not as an alternative to medical interventions: the goal is to inform about responsible use, available forms and precautions.
When it may be useful (practical scenarios)
1) Cold periods and winter routines
If in your winter routine you are looking for ingredients different from classic botanicals and want to vary your supplementation sources, chaga is often chosen by those who prefer fungi and birch-derived products to include regularly in the diet.
2) Those who prefer plant/fungal formulations
If you follow a "green" approach and favor mushroom-based supplements over other extracts, chaga integrates well into a routine that already includes other adaptogenic or mycotherapeutic mushrooms (always checking interactions and compatibility between preparations).
3) Cycled use to evaluate personal perception
Some people take chaga in cycles of a few weeks to assess how it fits into their daily routine (for example at season changes or periods with altered eating habits), then reassessing subjective effects.
How to use it (reasonable approach)
Common forms:
- Dry extract in capsules/tablets: practical for standardized dosages.
- Powder (micronized) for capsules or mixing into ready drinks: offers the most complete raw material.
- Tinctures/hydroalcoholic extracts: some products concentrate specific lipid‑soluble compounds.
Typical cycle: many people try cycles of 2–8 weeks with daily intake, then evaluate personal perception before continuing.
Dosage note: commercial dosages vary widely (e.g. extracts found in capsules often report ranges from a few hundred to 1,000 mg/day; powders may be offered in the range 1–3 g/day). Always follow the product label and, if needed, consult a healthcare professional to adapt the dosage to your situation.
Common mistakes (that reduce perceived effectiveness)
- Buying untracked chaga or harvested in an uncontrolled way: quality and presence of contaminants (heavy metals, molds) can vary greatly.
- Taking excessively high doses thinking "more is better": besides being unnecessary, this can increase the risk of adverse effects (e.g. on blood glucose control or coagulation).
- Not monitoring relevant parameters if you have particular conditions (e.g. blood glucose, kidney function): lack of attention can make the supplementation less safe.
When to be cautious
- If you take anticoagulants or drugs that affect coagulation, because chaga may interfere with these mechanisms: consult your doctor.
- If you have kidney problems or a history of kidney stones: chaga can contain significant levels of oxalates in some preparations.
- If you have diabetes or are monitoring blood glucose: some formulations can influence glucose levels; it is important to monitor values and speak with your doctor.
- In pregnancy and breastfeeding caution is recommended: avoid use without the opinion of a healthcare professional.
- Allergies to fungi or contact dermatitis from fungi: stop use and seek medical advice if reactions occur.
- Prefer products with certificates of analysis for contaminants (metals, pesticides, mycotoxins) and traceability of origin (e.g. birch as host).
Naturalma products (EUROPE and USA)
If you want to link this routine to a Naturalma product, here are the options active in the catalog for marketplaces.
EUROPE
Tablets
Alcohol-free mother tincture
- CHAGA Alcohol-free mother tincture 120 ml — 120 ml
- CHAGA Alcohol-free mother tincture 100 ml — 100 ml
USA
Alcohol-free mother tincture
FAQ (schema.org/FAQPage)
1) Can I take chaga every day? Many people use it regularly for cycles of several weeks, but frequency depends on the formulation and your personal condition. Follow the product instructions and consult your doctor if you have doubts.
2) What is the difference between chaga extract and powder? Dry extract tends to concentrate certain compounds and allows for more standardized dosing; the powder contains the more complete raw material but can vary in content and bioavailability. The choice depends on practicality, preferences and your supplementation goals.
3) Are there known drug interactions? Yes: it is recommended to consult your doctor if you take anticoagulants, blood glucose medications or immunosuppressants, or if you have kidney conditions. Better to evaluate potential interaction risks together with a professional.
Final disclaimer
Article for informational purposes. Dietary supplements do not replace a varied and balanced diet nor professional consultation. If you have clinical conditions or take medications, consult your doctor before starting supplementation. Article and images for informational purposes generated with AI (artificial intelligence).
