Does Chaga Get You High?

The benefits of chaga mushroom have been known and used for centuries in places such as Siberia and other parts of Asia. Due to the highly potent health benefits associated with consuming the mushroom in the form of a tea, chaga is slowly establishing itself as a go to supplement.

What is chaga?

Chaga is a mushroom found to grow on birch tree in cold climates, such as Russia, Northern Europe, Canada, Alaska, and many more. Resembling a lump of burnt charcoal it can grow up to 15 inches with a soft core in the middle that has a bright orange colour. Chaga is often grated into a fine powder and brewed as a tea, it is said that the benefits of the mushroom are released once it is mixed with cold or hot drinks. In recent years however the popularity of taking chaga capsule supplement have increased, with the mushroom often mixed with other mushrooms extracts for a boost in benefits. Some of the main benefits of having chaga are as follows.

• You’ll boost your immune system

The immunity boosting benefits of chaga mushroom has been the focus for many in countries such as Russia and Korea. It has been proven that the mushroom extract can fight against infections, such as common cold or fever as well as tackling signs of disease in the body.

• It can fight inflammation

Chaga can prevent and reduce inflammation, even long-term that are often linked with heart disease or rheumatoid arthritis.

• Can lower blood sugar

There have been a few studies recently about the impact a daily intake of chaga can have on blood sugar. There is still a lot of research underway now and evidence of chaga helping to manage diabetes in humans has not occurred yet.

• Can lower cholesterol

Daily dose of chaga will also help lower cholesterol by increasing the antioxidants levels and “good” levels of cholesterol resulting in an even and balanced cholesterol level.

• Aids digestive health

Supports digestion by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria that contribute to an overall healthier immune system.

Now that we have had explained in a little more detail about chaga and its benefits, let’s now explore further into finding out whether chaga can get you high? 

Is chaga mushroom psychedelic?

No, chaga mushroom is not psychedelic so it will not get you high. Chaga tea has been used for over 5,000 years to help boost immunity and fight disease. Although its appearance may make you feel as though it could have the potential of being psychedelic, it is in fact a functional mushroom and is perfectly legal to have all over the world.

Just a word of warning, foraging for mushrooms is a fun and enjoyable activity, but is something that should not be carried out by anyone who is not an expert in the field. Always ensure you have the guidance of a professional to ensure you remain safe and healthy.

Is chaga a stimulant?

Yes, in a way chaga is a stimulant, often used as a replacement for a morning coffee, chaga can help regulate and relieve various areas of the stress system. Not only does it give you a calmer approach to your morning, but you will also find the energy boost you receive from chaga can sometimes still not cut it. Therefore, it is best to wean yourself off caffeine instead of going completely cold turkey. Try mixing some chaga extract into your morning coffee and then over time try decreasing the amount of coffee you put in your mug, in no time you’ll be enjoying a morning cup of pure chaga with any of the caffeine withdrawal side effects.

How long does it take to feel the effects of chaga?

As long as you’re using chaga on a daily basis, you can expect to see results after three weeks. This allows you enough time to establish chaga into your daily routine, similarly to the way I have already mentioned by adding it into your morning coffee.

For those who regularly take chaga, they may form the habit of taking chaga extract every day throughout cold and flu season. The immunity boost from the mushroom is stimulated with the promotion of the growth of white blood cells that are vital for combating harmful bacteria and viruses. You will also find that chaga is packed with all the essential minerals needed for overall improved health, such as magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, zinc, and copper.

Does chaga have side effects?

Although taking the correct amount is generally considered safe, there is still some lacking in evidence how effective chaga is when taking it long term. There has been some evidence that chaga can sometimes interfere with any medication you may be taking, especially if it is medication to help with blood conditions as chaga contains a protein that can prevent blood clotting. There is also no safety research carried out to determine whether chaga is safe to have whilst pregnant or breast feeding. Therefore, it is so important to consult with a doctor or medical professional before introducing chaga into your daily routine to ensure it is a safe ingredient for you to take.

Is chaga good for anxiety?

Yes, it is, as chaga belongs to a group of mushrooms that are called adaptogens. These ingredients are known and praised for relieving symptoms of high-volume stress and anxiety. It can do this by improving the overall health and function of your adrenal system whilst keeping fatigue at bay. If you find you suffer with a lot of stress and daily anxiety having chaga regularly will help you calm and settle your nerves and elevate your stress levels.

How much chaga should I take daily?

This is very much dependant on the blend and product you are using. If it is a fine powder mixed with water, 1-2 tablespoons, once you are given the green light from your GP will have a positive impact. As I have mentioned earlier, you can also find chaga extract in a capsule form. This may change the level of potency of the mushroom depending on the blend containing only chaga, or a mixture of other beneficial mushrooms. Choosing the best formula may take some time, but in the end once you have found a product that suits you and your lifestyle, you can sit back and reap the rewards.

There you have a little more information about chaga and whether it can get you high or not. Don’t forget to come and follow us on Instagram if you have any further questions, you’ll find one of our experts in the direct messages.