First and foremost, what are adaptogens?

Adaptogens were initially defined as substances that enhance the “non-specific resistances” to stress on the body and decrease the body’s sensitivity to stressors (1). They are a unique collection of plant and herbal substances that have been used in Chinese, Ayurvedic and other traditional medicine practices for many centuries to promote a positive well being and treat conditions such as viruses, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Certain mushrooms and other plant substances must meet three criteria to be considered adaptogens:

Adaptogens are non-specific and assist the human body in resisting a range of conditions the body may experience, such as physical, chemical or biological stress.

Adaptogens maintain homeostasis in the human body, as in offsetting disease or disorders caused by external stress.

Lastly, adaptogens must not cause harm or disrupt the biological processes of the body (2).

In short, adaptogens help your body naturally adapt to internal and external stressors in the environment (think diet, inflammation, environmental pollution, radiation). Examples of adaptogens include reishi, ashwaganda, cordyceps, lions mane, tocos, chaga, and more. Adaptogens help ease the stress on the adrenal system, which is the part of the body responsible for managing our hormonal response to external stressors. They are a great way to help reduce high stress and anxiety levels as well as high rates of insomnia in the U.S., in addition to many other health benefits.

Chaga, the fountain of youth mushroom

Chaga is a type of adaptogenic mushroom that is known as the “fountain of youth” mushroom! Chaga or Inonotus obliquus (Chaga mushroom) belongs to the family Hymenochaetaceae of Basidiomycetes. This mushroom preferably grows on the trunks of mature live birch trees (2). When we think of these mushrooms, we’re not talking about the typical shiitake or portobellos you would sautee with your dinner. Adaptogenic mushrooms are usually found in powder form and can be added to any element of your daily routine such as hot or cold drinks, smoothies, oatmeal, savory dishes, or a delicious homemade latte, which I’m going to share with you today!

Before we dive into the latte recipe, here are some reasons to add Chaga to your wellness routine:

• A natural adaptogen that helps balance the metabolic system
• Anti-aging for your cells and skin, helps reduce UV damage from the sun
• Anti-inflammatory with a high antioxidant power. Chaga mushroom has one of the highest ORAC scores of any plant substances (measure of antioxidant potency)
• Cancer fighting. Chaga has been shown to have anti-tumor activity by suppressing the proliferation of cancer cells and promoting cancer cell death, as well as reduced tumor vascularization, therefore slowing the growth of cancer (2)
  
• Anti-bacterial
• Stimulates the immune system
• Enhanced endurance, physical and cognitive performance such as learning and memory (1)
  
  

This iced latte is a great choice for an afternoon beverage instead of reaching for second cup of coffee, and is especially refreshing as we head into warmer months! It also contains a good dose of healthy fats with the addition of cacao butter (can also swap for coconut butter) to keep blood sugar levels and hormones stable. I hope you enjoy this refreshing and health boosting Chaga Latte!

As with any product or substance, consult your physician before taking adaptogens if you have any chronic medical conditions or take any medications. It’s always best to determine what products and regimens work for you specifically.

This latte can also be made hot by warming up the plant based milk first before blending!

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991026/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6240259/