Chaga is a safe mushroom to consume for the majority of people. For centuries, Chaga has been used in folk medicine and by traditional practitioners without any ill results. Yet there are people who should not take Chaga, or consume it with extreme caution to avoid negative repercussions of the side effects.
If you have any concerns, you should consult a qualified medical doctor before taking Chaga. As with all foods and supplements, there is the possibility of allergic reactions, interference with your medicine and other side effects.
When you’re beginning to consume Chaga regularly for the first time, it´s best to start with smaller quantities to ensure your body tolerates and appreciates it. Chaga is a detoxifier, which means it flushes toxins from the body. This may result in an increase in urination and other natural effects of detoxification. Increase water intake while drinking or taking Chaga to assist the body in flushing out contaminants.
The demand for Chaga for its health benefits is growing daily, but with no regulation, the products are available to anybody. We’ll discover the answers that scientists have conducted and you need to consider, from the limited research available.
Chaga can be unsafe for the following individuals:
- pregnant women
- breatsfeeding
- people on diabetes medications
- people dealing with low blood pressure
- anyone who has dealth with a kidney disease
- people on blood thinners
- people living with an autoimmune disease
- anyone living or working in extreme conditions
- people on other medicines
Pregnancy and Chaga
To this day Chaga has not been proven to be safe for pregnant women and those breastfeeding. Since there are many notable side effects to this super fungus, we suggest you avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Diabetes medication and Chaga
In some preliminary studies, Chaga extracts lowered blood sugar. It is recommended that diabetics not take Chaga supplements in combination with diabetes medication, especially insulin.
Consuming Chaga can increase the likelihood of Hypoglycemia, so if you happen to be dealing with low blood sugar, stay away from it. Seek immediate medical care when you experience the following symptoms: anxiety, confusion, difficulty speaking, dizziness, weakness and shakiness.
Blood pressure and Chaga
Some people report Chaga lowers blood pressure, causing complications with blood pressure medications. Meaning anyone taking blood pressure medications should avoid consuming Chaga.
Kidney disease and Chaga
There is one reported case of Chaga supplements taken over a 6-month period causing kidney problems in an older adult woman with liver cancer. Use caution if you have liver or kidney issues.
The fungi contain oxulate, which is an anti-nutrient, meaning it interferes with the body’s absorption of other nutrients, as well as binds with calcium to form kidney stones.
People who consume large amounts of the fungi can be at risk for kidney failure.
Blood thinners and Chaga
There is a possibility that Chaga may interfere with blood-thinning medications (like Warfarin), or other anticoagulants. If you’re taking the medicine or preparing for surgery, avoid consuming Chaga all along (two weeks before the operation at the latest).
Auto immune diseases and Chaga
Chaga mushrooms can increase the activity of an immune system. As much as it’s a good thing in a healthy body. It can have detrimental effects on someone with an over-active immune system. For people dealing with multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, or systemic lupus erythematosus, avoid consuming the mushroom.
Consuming Chaga in extreme weather or conditions
Though Chaga has been called “The gift from God” by indigenous cultures and has helped people overcome multiple health challenges. The detox aspect of the consumption of the fungi can turn out to cause more harm than good. By an increase in urination, the cleansing process of your body can lead to extreme dehydration and fatigue. So make sure you look after yourself and start experimenting with taking Chaga in a comfortable, safe environment.
Medicines Chaga interferes with
Chaga mushrooms can react with some medications. The only safe way to ensure if your medication is safe to use with Chaga is to speak to your doctor.
Chagamushroom.co.uk team
If you are experiencing any abnormal side effects from consuming Chaga, seek immediate help!
References:
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/chaga-mushroom