Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

View the product label here<< By now you understand that Tonic Alchemy™ 2.0 is a broad superfood supplement that can, and probably will, change your life for the better. Your cells, tissues, organs and systems will be fully nourished every day. Your Jing, Qi and Shen will be nourished every day. Your adaptability will be expanded, and your vitality will be enhanced. Tonic Alchemy™ 2.0 promotes balance, in the ultimate sense of Yin and Yang. You will find that your rhythms are honed, your consciousness is expanded and focused, your mind is sharpened and your will power is manifested. Making Tonic Alchemy™ 2.0 a part of your daily regimen, central to your lifestyle, along with doing your yoga, qigong, and other life cultivation techniques, you will be irresistibly on the path to radiant health and a very long and fulfilling life. Tonic Alchemy™ 2.0 is THAT important! THE WORLD’S ULTIMATE SUPERFOOD BLEND Tonic Alchemy™ is your daily assurance for a perfect diet. With 91 amazing ingredients, Tonic Alchemy™ is the source of thousands of phyto-nutrients. Tonic Alchemy™ is a remarkable, cutting edge blend of superfoods, premium tonic herbs, organic fruits and vegetables, and probiotics from all around the world – from the cleanest oceans, to the most bio-diverse rainforests, to the world’s most remote mountains. Ingredients come from almost every continent and every type of environment on earth. These superfoods are so nutrient dense that just a tablespoon a day of Tonic Alchemy™ blended with a liquid will provide more high quality nutrition and phytochemical support than most Americans assimilate in an entire day. Tonic Alchemy™ is delicious and easy to prepare. You will look forward to each opportunity to enjoy this life-giving superfood matrix. Every serving is a step toward radiant health, including the potential to slow down aging itself. • The ingredients in Tonic Alchemy™ have been collected from the highest mountains in the world (including the Himalayas, Heaven Mountain, Changbai Mountain, the Ural Mountains, etc.), from remote deep blue oceans, and from pristine forests, deserts and jungles throughout the world. Only the finest available ingredients are included in Tonic Alchemy™. • Tonic Alchemy™ is a dietary source of literally thousands of useful phytonutrients including natural B vitamins (normally not readily available from vegan sources) from Ashitaba and Hydrilla super green foods. Tonic Alchemy™ also includes the 20 greatest vegan supertonic herbs from around the world. Tonic herbs are consumed throughout the world on a daily basis to promote radiant health. Herbs like wild Siberian Chaga, mountain grown Duanwood Reishi, organic Ginseng from Changbai Mountain in remote Manchuria, Ashwaganda from the foothills of the Himalayas, two varieties of Rhodiola (one from Tibet and another from Siberia), and so on. • Tonic Alchemy™ nourishes the whole body by increasing balanced energy and vitality, supporting detoxification, boosting immune responses, building the blood, increasing activity and quantity of antioxidants and enzymes, and much more. • Tonic Alchemy™ can be your dietary foundation for radiant health, traditionally defined in Asia as “health beyond danger.” From a tonic perspective, Tonic Alchemy™ abundantly tonifies all three Treas- ures, Jing, Qi and Shen. Tonic Alchemy is vibrant LIFE FORCE IN A BOTTLE. Why Consume Tonic Alchemy? Over the past forty years ten’s of millions of Americans have become aware of the need for better, more natural nutrition. Everyone now realizes that good nutrition is central to health, well being and longevity. Americans can eat large amounts of conventional food and still be undernourished. Of course, we can shop at natural foods markets and purchase plenty of good nutritious, even organic foods, but that is difficult for many people to do all of the time. The U.S. government has recently released its new dietary recommendations urging consumers to consume up to 13 servings per day of vegetables and fruits. This long overdue recommendation affirms what many of us have known for a long time. Still, most Americans will not be able to achieve these standards. Even those of us who eat consciously often find it difficult to eat well all the time. The earth and seas provide incredible nutrition that is accessible and invaluable to our health, well being, aging process and longevity. Luckily, Tonic Alchemy™ can make a huge difference in our actual vegetable, fruit and overall phtytonutrient consumption. Tonic Alchemy™ contains superfoods – foods of extraordinary nutritive value – nutrient-dense greens, super-tonic herbs, tonic mushrooms, antioxidant-rich fruits and sea vegetables, vitamin-rich sprouts, probiotics and naturally fermented foods, all of which contribute to our deeper nutritional needs. Tonic Alchemy™ is a source of concentrated garden vegetables, with a focus on the cruciferous vegetables, the very ones we need to consume virtually every day to enhance our immune system. Tonic Alchemy™ is exactly the concentrated vegetable booster you need in order to achieve and to maintain glowing health. People often suffer from unexplained problems because of a lack of certain nutrients in their diet. Even if you think you are eating a healthy diet, it is quite possible you are being cheated – or just fooling yourself. These deficiencies are not the result of a lack of food quantity, or may not even be the result of eating “poorly.” It is quite possible to eat many “servings” of fruits and vegetables a day and still be coming up short in terms of some nutrients, trace elements and nutritional factors necessary for radiant health.  Nutritional Variety – the Thrival© Factor The body requires a wide range of nutrients and phytochemicals to thrive. We live in extraordinarily complex times. Our lives are complex and our needs are complex. The body is a system of millions of interconnecting functions happening at every moment in a harmonious way – if we are healthy. We know that if certain nutrients are missing from our diet, we are going to suffer from a deficiency. Different cells, different tissues and systems require specific biologically active molecules and chemicals in order to achieve optimum performance, including a wide range of minerals, vitamins, and plant phytochemicals. It is possible to “live” or “survive” without some of these substances, but just living or surviving is not the same thing as “thriving.” Thriving means living life to its fullest in a healthy, happy, flourishing, robust, satisfying way. Nutritional variety plays a very key role in thriving. In fact variety is the ultimate thrival© factor. We all know about the “minimum daily requirements” for nutrition. These are not about thriving. They are the “minimum” requirements to remain marginally healthy, to not slip into a deficiency disease state. Even “average daily requirements” are not about thriving. Thriving requires more and better. Not necessarily more in terms of any one nutrient, but more in terms of a variety of nutrients and phytochemicals and other life-promoting factors that the body can use for optimum living. And better in terms of the quality and completeness of those nutrients. The “minimum daily requirements” system is grossly oversimplified. Since the system was developed, scientists have discovered thousands of new chemicals in the human body that have profound effects on our health and wellbeing. There are too many nutrients that we really require to put on a food product label. The system is only marginally relevant.  The problems associated with consuming “variety,” however, are daunting for many people. If you want to get all these nutritional factors into your diet, you must first find all of them and make sure they’re all genuine, and they’re all organic, and they’re all from the best sources. Secondly, you’d have to obtain all of them – and that would obviously be time-consuming and expensive. Thirdly, you’d have to prepare them all and eat all day long in order to get them all in – every day! Thank goodness there’s an easier way! The solution lies in Tonic Alchemy™. We collect the most nutritious ingredients on earth from the best sources. We’ve created a delicious, 100% natural, easy to prepare, easy to consume blend of superfoods that ANYONE can EASILY get into their body EVERY DAY. The superfoods contain numerous substances that are not available in the everyday diet. These substances contribute to radiant health – the kind of health we are all seeking. It is rich in nutrients that can improve our general state of wellbeing and our overall health, and can contribute to slower aging. Tonic Alchemy™ contains 91 superfoods and probiotics organisms. It is more than a complete food. It is quintessential nutrition! It is your daily assurance for a healthy diet. Who do you know that FOR SURE is getting everything they need nutritionally every day? Well, if you know someone who is consuming Tonic Alchemy™ every day, then you know somebody.  The World’s Greatest Superfoods Are Available in One Amazing Blend Ron Teeguarden’s credo is “When it comes to tonic herbs and superfoods, never settle for less than the best.” We cannot all own the biggest house, the greatest car, or have the best clothes, but when it comes to what we are putting into our body, we should follow this credo. Our health and wellbeing are dependent upon what we put in our body. Our body must be revered as the miracle that it is. If we put premium quality nutrients into our body daily, our body will perform at a dramatically higher level. Tonic Alchemy™ is incredibly nutritious – it is the ultimate superfood mix ever created. Just one serving a day will provide the body, mind and spirit with the most awesome range of nutrients ever combined in one meal or one product. Tonic Alchemy™ is composed of 91 individual superfoods sourced from around the world. Every ingredient is the best material available in the world. We never settle for less than the best.  What’s New about Tonic Alchemy 2.0? 91 Ingredients. That’s a big subject. Tonic Alchemy™ 2.0 has over 20 new ingredients that Ron Teeguarden has decided he wants to consume every day. Organic Ingredients. Although Tonic Alchemy has ALWAYS be pure and chemical free, many of the ingredients were not certified organic. Now 71 of the superfoods, fruits, vegetables and herbs are certified organic. Almost all of the rest of the ingredients are wildcrafted (collected from Nature in the wild). 100% Vegan. The original Tonic Alchemy contained powdered pearls – the other 70 ingredients were plants. The pearl has been removed from Tonic Alchemy™ 2.0, which is now 100% vegan. This product is also largely raw. Only the herbs that cannot be consumed raw have been extracted and condensed. What’s in the New Tonic Alchemy 2.0? This new, significantly upgraded version of Tonic Alchemy™, which Ron Teeguarden is referring to as version “2.0,” features extraordinary ingredients from around the world. Because there are 91 ingredients in Tonic Alchemy™ 2.0, it is not possible to go into all of them fully in here (that would be a “book”). So let’s look at some of the major new ingredients and super-ingredients that are not so well known.  Superfoods Tonic Alchemy™ contains the most powerful superfoods in the world. Tonic Alchemy features several rare superfoods that can have profound health benefits. Ashitaba: Though not so well known yet in America, Ashitaba is recognized as Japan’s greatest superfood. This powerful super-nourishing and rejuvenating green plant promotes nerve growth factor production and thus supports neurological health into deep old age. The Okinawan people who grow Ashitaba are among the three longest lived peoples on earth. Hydrilla: This water plant is known by scientists to be the most nutrient dense food on earth. It is originally from the Russian wilderness. It supplies an abundance of vitamins and other factors, including B vitamins, including vitamin B12. This plant is virtually indestructible in nature, and that capacity to survive ANYTHING is representative of the radical potency of this little green superfood. Moringa: The small leaves of this tree from the Asian subcontinent is becoming recognized as one of the greatest superfoods on earth. Moringa Leaf provides amazing nutrition, rivalling Hydrilla as the most nutrient dense food plant on earth. It has 7 times the vitamin C of oranges. Gynostemma: This green plant that grows in tropical regions of Asia is a supreme superfood. Epidemiological studies have shown that the people who live where Gynostemma is grown and consumed on a daily basis are the longest lived people on earth (more octogenarians and more centenarians per capita than anywhere else). It contains over 100 saponins, similar to those found in ginseng, that improve adaptability, regulate immune functions and slow down aging in numerous ways, starting at the cellular level. Of course, Tonic Alchemy™2.0 also contains the Great Classic Superfoods: Grasses: Oat Grass, Barley Grass, Wheat Grass and Kamut Grass. Grasses are true superfoods. They are loaded with vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, chlorophyll, healthy fibers, and much more. They are provided in Tonic Alchemy™2.0 in two different ways: as grass juices (dried) and as whole grasses. Grass juice is about 40 times more concentrated that the raw grass, while the whole grass provides amazing fiber and enzymes plus an amazing range of phytoneutrients. Non-Grass Superfoods: Spirulina, Chlorella, Alfalfa Leaf, and Dunaliella Salina Algae. These superfoods are known to almost everyone who is into health. There is a difference in quality, however, depending upon sourcing and freshness. Tonic Alchemy™2.0 contains superior grades of all these superfoods. Tonic Herbs: Tonic Alchemy™2.0 contains 20 of the greatest vegan supertonic herbs from around the world. Tonic herbs are consumed throughout the world on a daily basis to promote radiant health. We have added 9 new major tonic herbs to the new blend and deleted one, pearl, that presented an issue to some people because it is not vegan. Tonic Alchemy™2.0 is 100% vegan.  A Few of the New Tonic Herbs Included in Tonic Alchemy™ 2.0  Russian Rhodiola rosea has been acknowledged to be one of the greatest adaptogenic herbs in the world. It is called “golden root” in Russia, where it has been used since prehistoric times as a panacea. It is extremely easy on the body, yet it is a highly potent energy tonic and immune modulator. Dragon Herbs has used Himalayan Rhodiola from the beginning in Tonic Alchemy. And we continue to use Himalayan Rhodiola sacra, known as “red root” in China and Tibet. We are using both in full dose capacities in this new Tonic Alchemy™2.0. We consider them to be different enough to be considered two different herbs, both with great power. Red Ginseng: Changbai Mountain Ginseng has been an ingredient in Tonic Alchemy™ since its first day, but we have received organic certification by the world’s most prestigious certification program, and that makes a difference. It is very, very difficult to grow ginseng organically. It takes from 6 to 8 years to grow a ginseng root. During that time, the tiny, vulnerable plant must survive Manchurian alpine conditions. The plant is so expensive that no farmer likes to risk losing the plant in its 4th or 6th year. Growing ginseng organically takes courage, faith and commitment. Ginseng also comes in various grades. We use the highest grade available, which on uses large 8 year old roots. You will not find 8 year old organically grown Changbai Mountain ginseng in any other superfood product. Wild Siberian Chaga™ is a slow growing woody mushroom that grows naturally on birch trees in Russian Siberia. It is collected wild, from remote, pristine forests in the arctic mountains of Siberia, the premier Di Tao source in the world for Chaga. All of the Chaga mushrooms used in Tonic Alchemy™2.0 are at least 20 years old at the time of collection – that is in comparison to most commercial Chaga which is grown artificially in Southeast Asia and is usually just four years old when collected. This Wild Siberian Chaga is rich in active polysaccharides, melanin, phenolic compounds and lanostane-type triterpenoids. It is a powerful antioxidant. The Chaga is extracted using ultra-modern technology to preserve the complete active constituent profile. It is one of the great broad spectrum tonic herbs known to mankind. It is now a major ingredient in Tonic Alchemy™2.0. Chaga modulates immune responses through secretion of Th1/Th2 cytokines (bioactive chemicals) in immune cells, and Chaga regulates antigen-specific antibody production. This modulatory effect is responsible for Chaga's "double-direction" adaptogenic effect on the immune response. This activity is very similar to the same activities long noted in Reishi mushroom (another classic ingredient in Tonic Alchemy™). Because of its double direction adaptogenic activity, Chaga is suitable to all healthy normal individuals seeking a world class tonic to support a wide range of life functions. Transcendent Nutrition Tonic Alchemy™ presents a means of going beyond “normal nutrition” by providing nutrients that most people simply cannot fit into their “normal diet.” Tonic Alchemy™ is loaded with the essential vitamins, amino acids, minerals and phytonutrients that we need on a daily basis to thrive in this modern world. But Tonic Alchemy™ does not just provide conventional nutrients – it transcends conventional nutrition. This blend of 91 superfoods contains literally thousands of phytochemicals, many of which are extremely rare and yet incredibly valuable to human health and wellbeing. Almost every vitamin, mineral, amino acid and co-factor so far discovered in whole natural foods has multiple roles to play in nurturing and protecting the human body and mind. Yet conventional nutrition in our modern society is very limited for many people due to lack of variety, lack of fresh living foods, and due to the adulteration and destruction of nutrients during food growing and processing. And, of course, many of the foods we find ourselves exposed to are in fact harmful and contribute to disease and degeneration. We all need to eat as well as possible to counterbalance the harsh and often-unnatural environmental forces and stress of the modern world. Tonic Alchemy™ is all about variety. Various forms of fresh water algae have earned a place in the superfood pantheon because of their incredible nutritional profiles and “nutrient density.” A number of seaweeds, especially the brown seaweeds, are included because of their extraordinary and safe detoxification and protective actions in humans and because of their rich nutrient profiles. Certain vegetables and sprouts have likewise been proven to be extraordinary sources of nutrients that promote glowing health. Many superfruits are included for their incredible antioxidant activities and for other reasons. Certain mushrooms are included for their potent immune modulating functions and other benefits, especially for the cardiovascular, neurologic and hepatic functions of the body. Tonic Alchemy™ also features adaptogenic herbs that contain substances that fortify our body in many ways and help us adapt to the harshness of this polluted, hazardous, stressful world. There are thousands of “herbs” in the world, but only those in an elite group are known as the “tonics,” or by the Asian term “superior herbs.” And these are not just the normal commercial grade tonic herbs found elsewhere – these are the premium tonic herbs in the world sourced from the most remote and pristine regions. They are the supertonic herbs. Living probiotic microbes are featured to help re-establish the intestinal microbial balance.   By consuming Tonic Alchemy™, a person is assured that they are consuming a full range of the world’s ultimate life-enhancing foods and tonic herbs. These nutrients help protect our body from toxins, ailments and even accidents. They enhance our immunity, cellular respiration and metabolism, illness control, tissue regeneration capacity, and longevity. Furthermore, they can play a huge role in our performance on every level of our life. Super nutrition can enhance intelligence, intuition, creativity, work performance, athletic performance, sexual performance – and even our personality and attitude toward life, work and family. There is nothing in life that is not influenced by our nutrition, and Tonic Alchemy™ provides amazing nutrients that can help every person to attain optimal personal achievement and well being.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus (persoon) Pilat) is a highly prized tonic mushroom (fungal mass). It is said to have many beneficial health functions, especially as an immune modulating tonic agent. It is found growing wild in old birch forests throughout the colder regions of the northern hemisphere, and has been well documented in Northern Asia and Northern Europe. Chaga has long been used in traditional Siberian, Korean, Chinese, north European and Scandinavian herbalism, especially Russian herbalism. Chaga has also been found in northern forests of America. The highest form or "superior grade" Chaga can only be found in locations with harsh wintery conditions where the temperature drops below minus(-) 40 degrees C. That is very cold. Premium Chaga is now being collected from the vast forests of Russian Siberia, where it grows abundantly. Ideal conditions exist in the pre-polar, northern, central and Arctic Urals as well as the Caucasus Mountains. This Chaga is referred to as "Siberian Chaga." Chaga is comprised of two visually distinguishable parts: a black part (outside) and an orange part (inside). These are generally classified as the fruiting body and sclerotium, respectively. Chaga does not produce an extended "fruiting body" ("mushroom") like that of Reishi mushroom. Typically Chaga is a blackish irregular shape, or "sclerotial conk." The "black" (very dark brown) skin (or "fruiting body") is rich in melanin. It takes about 10—15 years of parasitism to become large enough to be called "Chaga." From this age on, the fungus can be used for tonic and medicinal preparations. Some commercial growers of Chaga in Myanmar can "grow" Chaga to a pretty large size in just a few years, but it has weak biological activity. Chaga is a "slow growth fungus" and requires the years of growth to attain a certain maturity and biological complexity. Recently, many reports have been published concerning the health promoting functions of Chaga, including protection of DNA damage from oxidative stress, and anti-inflammatory activity throughout the body. Dragon Herbs Chaga is collected wild, from remote, pristine black birch forests in the Kama River Basin of arctic Siberia, considered the premier source in the world for Chaga (Di Tao), and all Chaga mushrooms used to produce Dragon Herbs Wild Siberian Chaga are at least 20 years old at the time of collection. It has been well established that Chaga older than 20 years has both superior chemistry and superior benefit to human consumers. Siberian Chaga has been used for at least six hundred years in Russia, according to records, and probably much longer. It is considered to be a virtually miraculous herb by indigenous Siberians. There have been attempts at cultivating Chaga, but the results have so far been disappointing to pharmaceutical companies. Attempts for culturing this fungus axenically (under sterile conditions) have all resulted in a reduced production of bioactive metabolites. Wild Chaga is the way to go at this time.  There's Plenty of Chaga Science You don't have to understand (or even read) all of the following science to appreciate the fact that there is currently a lot of research being conducted on Chaga. Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) has long been used as a folk medicine due to its numerous biological functions such as antibacterial, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities. Recently, a large amount of research has been, and continues to be done, onInonotus obliquus (Chaga). Russian and Scandinavian scientists had conducted most of the scientific research on this powerful herb in the last century. More recently however, Japanese, Korean and Chinese researchers are doing much of the scientific heavy lifting. Traditionally, Asian herbalists believed that Chaga "preserves youthfulness, promotes health, and promotes longevity." Because of its potent protective qualities and high degree of safety, it is designated as a “superior herb.” It is categorized as a Qi tonic, like Reishi mushroom. It is also considered to be a superb Kidney tonic and cleanser. It is also used as a remedial herb every place that it is collected. Chaga contains a multitude of active constituents and cofactors, many of which are currently being investigated for their potential health benefits. Research has supported the folk evidence that Chaga possesses potent immune supporting actions. Chaga is a rich source of β-glucans, especially 1-3-β-glucans, polysaccharides that are quintessential nutrients for the immune system. These polysaccharides have strong anti-inflammatory and immune balancing properties, enhancing the body’s ability to produce natural killer (NK) cells to battle infections. These polysaccharides are considered to be the primary active constituents of Chaga, at least from an immunological perspective. And upon ingestion, a range of secondary metabolites are produced, many of which are highly active as potent immune modulators. Chaga Polysaccharides effectively promote macrophage (white blood cell) activation through the MAPK and NF-ĸB signaling pathways, suggesting that Chaga Polysaccharides help regulate the immune response. The effectiveness of Chaga as an antiviral agent (as tested on West Nile virus and Herpes Simplex type 2 virus) has been shown to be dose dependent on the quantity of Chaga Polysaccharides present or their concentration. The antiviral results proved Chaga to be a very potent antiviral agent (rendering the viruses "completely inhibited." This is why Chaga Polysaccharides content is set at such a high level in Dragon Herbs Wild Siberian Chaga -- not less than 30%. Chaga is a VERY powerful antioxidant. Two natural antioxidants, named inonotusin A and B have been isolated from the methanolic (alcohol) extract of the outer layer of Chaga, together with a molecule named DBL (3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde). More about DBL in a moment. Studies indicate that Chaga is a potent free radical scavenger, far stronger than any other popular dietary antioxidant, including blueberries, goji, resveratrol and acai. Chaga contains a range of important active constituents including the polysaccharides described above (at least 30% Chaga Polysaccharides by analysis in this product - these polysaccharides have powerful immunological and antioxidant activity), phenolic compounds (powerful antioxidant and antiviral compounds), and many lanostane triterpenoids (an important constituent of Chaga is inotodial). Chaga produces massive amounts of high molecular weight phenolic pigments that have been categorized as melanins. This melanin "complex" is released to the surface of Chaga. Melanin is a potent antioxidant pigment that is present and needed throughout the human body, and has a wide range of health benefits. It has been demonstrated that this Chaga Melanin has strong genoprotective (DNA/gene protective) effects. The antioxidant activity of the hot water extract (decoction) of Chaga has been precisely compared with those of other medicinal fungi (Agaricus blazei Mycelia, Ganoderma lucidum and Phellinus linteus) by Japanese researchers, showing that Chaga has the strongest antioxidant activity among the fungi examined in terms of both superoxide and hydroxyl radicals scavenging activities. Recently, many research groups have begun identification of active small (low-molecular weight) compounds in medicinal mushrooms, with a focus on the yellow polyphenol pigments, which are composed of a styrylpyrone class of compounds. Chaga has been shown to produce a large amount of these styrylpyrone-type polyphenol pigments that exhibit various biological activities, including anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, anti-platelet aggregation, anti-diabetic, anti-dementia and anti-viral effects. Styrylpyrone pigments in mushrooms are thought to have a role similar to that of flavonoids in plants. The inner part of the Chaga mushroom is orange due to the large quantity of these styrylpyrone-type polyphenol pigments. These styrylpyrone-type polyphenols contribute very significantly to Chaga's extremely potent antioxidant activity. The compounds with the most potent antiviral activities in Chaga have been determined to be the phenolic compounds. The phenolic compounds are among the most potent antioxidants in Chaga as well. Many of you already know about the transcription factor known as nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kB), a molecule in all human cells that mediates virtually ALL disease, inflammation and death in humans. The suppression of this chemical is generally regarded as a means of reducing chronic and acute inflammation, degenerative and other kinds of disease, and to prolonging life. A Chaga-component known as DBL (3,4-dihydroxybenzalacetone) is a polyphenol derived Chaga. Chaga is used in Russian folk medicine to treat tumors, so investigators are exploring its mechanism of action. Because most genes involved in inflammation, anti-apoptosis (the blocking of natural cell death), and in cell proliferation -- all of which are hallmarks cancer -- are regulated by NF-kB, researchers postulated that DBL activity is mediated via modulation of the NF-kappaB activation pathway. They investigated the effects of DBL on NF-kB activation. They found that DBL suppressed NF-kB activation by a wide variety of inflammatory agents, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1beta, epidermal growth factor, lipopolysaccharide and others. The suppression was cell type independent and inhibited both inducible and constitutive NF-kappaB activation. DBL inhibits I-kappa-B-alpha-kinase activity, I-kappa-B-alpha phosphorylation and degradation, p65 phosphorylation, and translocation, all of which are involved in NF-kB activation. DBL also suppressed the expression of TNF-induced and NF-kappaB-regulated proliferative, antiapoptotic, and metastatic gene products. These effects correlated with suppression of TNF-induced invasion. Together, these results indicate that DBL inhibits NF-kB activation and NF-kB-regulated gene expression. That's a good thing! Researchers have recently reported in an international research journal (2011) at least one mechanism by which Chaga modulates immune responses is through secretion of Th1/Th2 cytokines (bioactive chemicals) in immune cells, and that Chaga regulates antigen-specific antibody production. This modulatory effect is responsible for Chaga's "double-direction" adaptogenic effect on the immune response. This activity is very similar to the same activities long noted in Reishi mushroom (Ganoderma). The Chinese variety of Chaga has been studied for its impact on influenza, and though it is not the same species as Siberian Chaga, it is VERY similar compositionally and is considered interchangeable (though perhaps slightly less potent than the Siberian variety). It has been shown that this herb has a potent impact on how the body reacts to the influenza virus. In China, it is listed as one of the five primary "anti-influenza virus mushrooms." The influenza virus infection is recognized by the human innate immune system through the two genetic pathways (toll-like receptor and retinoic acid inducible gene I).These two recognition pathways both lead to the activation of type I interferons and resistance to infection. Chaga (and Reishi mushroom) contain selenium, iron and zinc in large concentrations while chromium, manganese, copper and magnesium were found in lower concentrations. Analysis of serum trace element composition in lab animals showed that these anti-influenza virus mushrooms increase serum trace mineral content significantly -- but only when consuming the whole mushroom extract (obtaining all active constituents simultaneously as opposed to consuming the trace elements as independent nutrients). The trace elements, and in particular selenium (which is greatly increased in the serum of the test animals - more than doubling that of control levels), present in these mushrooms play a direct or indirect role in their influenza fighting nature. They appear to provide prophylactic protection against influenza infection via stimulation of host innate immune response. Chaga, like several other important tonic herbs, is a rich source of the trace element zinc. Zinc is an essential nutrient required for cell growth, differentiation and survival. Its deficiency causes immunodeficiency and many other health problems. Zinc is a critically important constituent of SOD, our most important innate antioxidant. Chaga has apparent antimutagenic actions.  Safety Chaga’s safety has been well established. It is non-toxic. It may be used as a daily tonic in moderate amounts. Chaga has been widely used in Japan, and the Japanese government carefully monitors adverse reaction reports. As of May 2011, in spite of the widespread popular use of this herb, there have been no adverse reaction reports in Japan. Chaga has traditionally been consumed as a hot tea, and the benefits associated with Chaga are based primarily (almost exclusively) on the cooked decoction or extract of Chaga. So mild cooking is considered appropriate for Chaga. Cooking produces metabolites that are believed to provide biological activity. Dragon Herbs Wild Siberian Chaga is a concentrated extract, produced by a state-of-the-art moderate-temperature full-spectrum extraction technology. Special highly sensitive technologies were used during the extraction process to assure full extraction of bioactive components. Both water and ethanol (alcohol) were used in the extraction, and as a result, all bioactive components are present, including polysaccharides, polyphenols, melanin, styrylpyrone compounds, etc. Ethanol and water extraction has been determined to extract virtually all of the major active constituents of Chaga. The ethanol (alcohol) extract is characterized by the predominant presence of lanostane-type triterpenoids and hispidin analogues. The water extract is characterized by polysaccharides and phenolic compounds. The ethyl ethanol and water extracts, both independently and together, revealed "remarkable potential for scavenging" the tested radicals (antioxidant activities here are indicated as capacities for scavenging superoxide anion, DPPH and hydroxyl radicals), while extracts made with synthetic solvents did not show this activity. Polyphenols are the major contributors for quenching the tested free radicals. Of the lanostane-type triterpenoids three compounds (16, 17 and 22) participated in scavenging hydroxyl radicals. Thus the polyphenols in Chaga are the principle constituents for quenching free radicals while polysaccharides and a few lanostane-type triterpenoids compounds contribute in scavenging free radicals. Chaga's ability to increase PPARy transcriptional activities indicates that it may be strong metabolic regulator. Chaga has been used traditionally to treat diabetes.  Product Information Product Name: Wild Siberian Chaga Ingredient Name: Chaga Mushroom (Wild Russian Siberian Inonotus obliquus) powdered extract (water and alcohol extraction), (32% Chaga Polysaccharides by analysis) Directions Based on a history of safety and efficacy as a tonic, and upon epidemiological evidence that Chaga is very safe and free from side effects, Chaga may be consumed as a tonic herb over a long period of time (indefinitely) in moderate amounts. Chaga has Ron Teeguarden's Five Star rating (top). Consume 1-4 capsules, 1 to 3 times per day as desired, or as directed by a qualified health care practitioner. In general, as a tonic herb for health promotion and health maintenance, a low-moderate dose of just 3 capsules per day is quite sufficient. Some animal studies support the notion that low doses and high doses of this herb have similar effects, so the low-moderate dose is recommended as a general protocol. Nevertheless, higher doses (equating to about 12 capsules a day) have not been found to cause side effects in the short or long term, so higher doses are safe for certain periods of time to enhance human functioning. Larger doses are possibly indicated for immunological balancing. Capsules Vegetarian fast-dissolving NP Capsules Source Kama River Basin of pre-arctic Siberia, Russia (Di Tao) Ron Teeguarden's personal usage I will be taking 3 to 6 capsules of Dragon Herbs Wild Siberian Chaga™ per day, every day

Kääpä Mushrooms – Chaga Organic Extract Powder (30g) Revered for centuries in Nordic and Siberian traditions, Chaga is known for its rich antioxidant content and immune-supporting properties. What's the deal with Chaga Organic Powder and how do you use it? Chaga Organic Powder is designed to blend effortlessly into hot or cold beverages with just half a teaspoon. Containing a minimum of 10% beta-glucans, this powder is sourced from Finnish Lapland, where the chaga's beta-glucan levels are higher due to the northern location. The product offers complete transparency and traceability, with all growth and processing stages in Finland. Utilising NordRelease™ extraction technology, it ensures maximum bioavailability of beneficial compounds. Made from 100% mushroom fruiting bodies with no myceliated grains, it provides a pure and authentic mushroom extract. Ingredients 100% Organic Chaga Powder Key Features Pure, single-ingredient formula Made from wild-harvested Finnish Chaga Free from additives or fillers Easy to use in teas, smoothies, or wellness drinks Additional Information Food Supplement  Net Weight: 30g Not for children Not recommended during pregnancy Do not exceed the recommended daily dose This product is not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet May contain traces of spelt Shelf Life: 24 months from production date   Note:  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any food supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or are taking medication. Not suitable for children.  Not for use during pregnancy.  Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Individual results may vary. Supplements should be used as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.  

Directions: Place tea bag into cup or mug, allow hot water to steep with the bag till water turns darker like coffee. You can use the tea bag 3-4 times, discard within 1 day.Each tea bag is chemical- free and made with oxygen bleached paper. Tea bag contains Wild British Chaga, Organic Goji and Schizandra Berries. Chaga (Latin name - Inonotus Obliquus) Chaga grows in the circumpolar region of the world, in the Northern hemisphere of our planet growing in deciduous forests where birch trees are exposed to harsh weather conditions. Although Chaga mainly grows on birch trees, it can also grow on alder, ash, beech, elm, and can even grow on apple trees. As Chaga grows on the birch tree, this growth feeds on the nutrients and compounds found in the birch tree, concentrating the environmental energy that is extremely potent, in a form more readily available to humans.In Siberian Shamanism Chaga is known as the "king of the mushrooms."  Throughout history, Chaga has been most widely consumed in tea form. In Siberia, regular consumption of Chaga prevented the onset of degenerative disease.  Other Nutrients:Protein-bound xylogalactoglucans.Polyphenols, sterols, lanosterols/ergosterols, inotodiols, triterpenoidal saonins,melanin, betulin/betulinic acid, lupeol, , copper, germanium.Chaga contains 215 phytonutrients including 29 polysaccharide or beta glucan derivatives.Trace minerals:Barium, bismuth, boron, chromium, copper, germanium, manganese, selenium, zinc.Major minerals:Calcium, cesium, iron, magnesium,phosphorus,potassium, rubidium, silicon, sulphur, vitamins B2, D2, dietary fiber and amino acids complexes.DISCLAIMER: all information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or prescription.

Chaga is a medicinal mushroom that has strong immune enhancing properties, high levels of antioxidants, and exhibits anti-viral properties. It is an amazing health and longevity tonic full of phyto-nutrients that slow the aging process. Chaga mushroom has been a component of Russian folk medicine since the 16th century. It was traditionally used to treat stomach and lung cancers and for other ailments including but not limited to gastritis, ulcers, colitis, and various other inflammatory conditions. The active ingredients in Chaga have been identified to be sterols, triterpenes, saponins, and polysaccharides. Of the triterpene group, inotodiol seems to be the most active. Another component found in Chaga is Betulin which is absorbs and concentrates from the birch trees that it is commonly found to grow on. Betulin can easily be converted to Betulinic acid which has been shown to possess a wide spectrum of biological activities. Japanese research has also shown that Chaga demonstrates anti-viral activity and may be beneficial  against HIV replication. Chaga mushroom has marked immuno-stimulatory activity and should be considered by anyone seeking super immunity and longevity. Category: Medicinal Mushroom Properties: bitter, sweet, neutral Organ meridians: Spleen, Heart, Lung Potent immune supporting tonic Powerful adaptogen Anti-viral properties Antioxidant 50 grams per packet 25 servings per packet Organic mycelium powder Ingredients:  Inonotus obliquus mycelium (organic)