Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) is well-regarded for its numerous health benefits, including its positive effects on skin health. Here’s how Chaga mushroom supports and enhances skin health:
1. Antioxidant Properties
Chaga mushroom is rich in antioxidants, which play a crucial role in protecting skin cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. These antioxidants, including phenolic compounds, help reduce signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, by neutralizing harmful free radicals and preventing cellular damage(Park et al., 2004).
2. Anti-inflammatory Effects
The anti-inflammatory properties of Chaga mushroom help reduce skin inflammation and irritation. Triterpenoids and other bioactive compounds in Chaga inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can alleviate conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis. By reducing inflammation, Chaga promotes clearer and calmer skin(Nguyen et al., 2020).
3. DNA Protection and Repair
Chaga’s polysaccharides have been shown to protect and repair DNA, which is crucial for maintaining healthy skin cells. Studies have demonstrated that Chaga extracts can reduce oxidative DNA damage in human lymphocytes and promote the repair of damaged DNA, enhancing the skin’s resilience against environmental stressors(Eid & Das, 2020).
4. Enhancement of Skin Hydration and Elasticity
Chaga mushroom contains compounds that help improve skin hydration and elasticity. High-voltage pulsed electric fields (PEF) technology has been used to enhance the extraction of these beneficial compounds from Chaga, resulting in improved hyaluronic acid synthesis, which is vital for maintaining skin moisture and elasticity(Sung et al., 2020).
5. Protection Against UV Damage
Chaga’s polysaccharides also provide protection against UV-induced skin damage. Studies have shown that Chaga extracts can reduce UVB-induced DNA damage and promote the expression of DNA repair genes, which helps maintain skin health and prevent photoaging(Eid et al., 2021).
6. Anti-cancer Properties
Chaga mushroom has demonstrated anti-cancer properties, which include inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells and inducing apoptosis. These properties are beneficial for skin health as they can potentially protect against skin cancers and other malignant growths(Fordjour et al., 2023).