The see-what-you-get one
Hot-water extract listing beta-glucan content
Concentrates the active compounds and shows what you're getting.
Good for: Everyday use
What variations of chaga exist?
A dark, woody growth found on birch trees in cold climates, used as an antioxidant tea and for immune support. It is very high in oxalates. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
- Also consider
- Easy to take: the traditional brew (Chaga chunks or tea)
Every form, in plain words
The see-what-you-get one
Hot-water extract listing beta-glucan content
Concentrates the active compounds and shows what you're getting.
Good for: Everyday use
The traditional brew
Chaga chunks or tea
Traditional, though strength varies.
Good for: Easy to take
Usually skip
- Mostly grain (Mycelium grown on grain)Often mostly grain starch, and missing compounds that form on the birch tree.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'Hot-water extract listing beta-glucan content' on the label (the see-what-you-get one)
Watch out for
- No beta-glucan (the main active compounds) percentage listed
- 'Myceliated grain' as the main ingredient
- Products meant for large daily amounts over a long time
Check with your provider first if…
- You have kidney stones or kidney disease. Chaga is very high in oxalates (which can form stones), and kidney damage has been reported with long-term use.
- You take diabetes medicine, since it may lower blood sugar
- You take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, or are having surgery soon
- You have an autoimmune condition or take medicines that calm the immune system. It may rev up the immune system, so ask your provider first.
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding: not well studied
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.