Key takeaways
- Look for Inonotus obliquus and a stated origin.
- Check whether it’s the wild conk or cultivated mycelium.
- Hot water extraction is essential; alcohol adds more.
- Testing is worthwhile for wild material; chaga is high in oxalates.
Chaga is wild-harvested, so choosing a chaga product means thinking about sourcing as well as extraction. This guide explains what to check.
1. Check the species
Look for Inonotus obliquus on the label.
2. Where does it come from?
Chaga grows in cold northern forests. A good supplier will tell you where it was harvested and how. See Chaga Harvesting and Sustainability.
3. Is it wild chaga or mycelium?
Most chaga products use the wild conk. Some use mycelium grown in cultivation, which is a very different material. The label should say which. See Why Chaga Is Not Technically a Mushroom.
4. How was it extracted?
Look for hot water extraction, and ideally alcohol as well. See How Chaga Is Extracted.
5. Testing
Because chaga is wild and grows for years on trees, testing for contaminants is worthwhile. Ask what testing a supplier carries out. See Heavy Metals in Mushrooms.
6. Safety and claims
Chaga is naturally high in oxalates, so it isn’t suitable for everyone; speak to a healthcare professional if you have kidney problems or take medication. No health claims are authorised for chaga in the UK.
Quick checklist
- Inonotus obliquus named
- Origin stated
- Wild conk or mycelium stated
- Extraction explained
- Testing described
Our chaga
Our Chaga tincture is a dual extract of wild chaga harvested from birch in Finland, containing only chaga, purified water and plant-derived ethanol.