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Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is a fungus that mainly grows on birch trees and contains several beneficial compounds, including polysaccharides, melanins, triterpenes, and phenolic compounds.
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The main active substance in chaga is polysaccharides, particularly beta-glucans, which have immune-stimulating and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Betulin is a triterpene found in birch bark, but its concentration in chaga is significantly lower (less than 1%), whereas in birch bark it can reach up to 30%.
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Birch bark (Betula pendula) is rich in betulin and betulinic acid, which have strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
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Birch bark decoctions contain much more betulin than chaga decoctions, approximately hundreds of times higher.
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Birch cambium is the most nutritious part of the bark, containing carbohydrates, vitamins, and bioactive compounds such as betulin, and is used for both dietary and medicinal purposes.
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Birch leaves contain flavonoids (quercetin and rutin), saponins, tannins, and vitamin C, which provide diuretic, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Vitamin C in birch leaves degrades during boiling, so steeping them in hot water preserves more of this nutrient.
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Birch catkins contain triterpenes, phenolic compounds, and essential oils, providing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Birch extracts are often more concentrated compared to decoctions from dried parts, making them more convenient for use in cosmetics and pharmacology.
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The antioxidant properties of chaga are due to the high content of melanins, which protect cells from oxidative stress and improve skin health.
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Melanins in chaga offer protective benefits for the skin, particularly against UV radiation, while supporting the body's antioxidant defenses.
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Triterpenes like inotodiol in chaga have anticancer properties, inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and preventing metastasis.
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Phenolic compounds in chaga and birch bark have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, improving cardiovascular health and protecting cells from damage.
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Betulinic acid — a derivative of betulin — is actively researched as a potential component in cancer therapies due to its ability to inhibit tumor cell growth.
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Birch bark also exhibits antiviral activity, including against HIV, due to the action of betulin and betulinic acid.
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Birch leaf decoctions can be used as a diuretic to treat edema and kidney diseases.
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Birch catkin extract can be used in cosmetic products to improve skin and hair health, combat dandruff, strengthen hair, and promote hair growth.
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The toxicity of birch bark is low when used properly, but large doses can cause gastrointestinal irritation and allergic reactions in people sensitive to salicylates.
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Combining different parts of birch and chaga in the form of extracts and decoctions can provide comprehensive health benefits by supporting the immune system, improving skin condition, and combating inflammation and toxins.