Updated by Mick Simmons, MD – May 2020

Following an initial outbreak in China in late 2019, people all over the world are adjusting to the rise of coronavirus and COVID-19.  If you have read anything in the news or other media lately, you will likely know that it is more than just simple flu.  However, there are actually many different types of coronavirus.

But what do Chaga mushroom users need to know about coronavirus and COVID-19?  Could Chaga help to prepare our bodies for the illness the virus causes?  We are going to look at the facts in full.  Here is a quick guide on what you need to know.

What is COVID-19?

According to the World Health Organization, or WHO, COVID-19 is a disease commonly spread through coughs and sneezes.  Presently, experts believe that the primary channels for transmission are through direct contact with the virus through droplets.  However, as the disease is extremely infectious, extreme care is advisable.

What Can COVID-19 Do?

COVID-19 causes respiratory illness in people of all ages.  In many cases, experts state, it is likely to cause mild breathing problems.  However, those who are elderly or vulnerable may be at risk of developing more intense symptoms and problems.  In some cases, COVID-19 can kill.

However, data shows that it is possible to survive COVID-19 healthily.  Data shared in the press does not necessarily take into account potential thousands of people going untested.

Who Is Most At Risk From COVID-19?

News stories and expert advice generally state that people over the age of 60, and those with underlying medical conditions, are most likely to be at risk.  However, some healthy people have suffered from strong symptoms, and some have succumbed to the illness.  However, that is no reason to panic.

How Are We Trying to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19?

At the time of writing, coronavirus is spreading wide across Europe and the US.  Different countries have varying measures in place to curb the spread and to protect the wider population.

• Social distancing measures are in place. That means many businesses, schools, and public services are shutting down.
• In some territories, there are curfews on people leaving their homes for long periods. Many people are now working from home.
• Many countries are increasing tests for COVID-19. That will help to bring key workers, such as medical professionals, back to the frontline.
• Additional medical facilities and research are seeing emergency funding. As COVID-19 is still a new virus, we have no current way of predicting how it may react to treatments.
• Quarantine procedures are in place to help prevent services getting overwhelmed.
• People should regularly wash their hands. They should also avoid touching their face with unclean hands and should stay indoors wherever possible.
• People may leave their homes for emergency provisions. However, restrictions will differ from country to country.

What Does This Mean for Chaga Users?

For those of us who regularly take Chaga, times are just as scary.  Many people are turning to supplements and dietary amendments in an effort to ward off COVID-19.  Unfortunately, at this time, there is no data to suggest that any kind of dietary supplement will fight the disease.

However, it stands to reason to be prepared.  Experts are hopeful that further testing will continue.  That may mean we learn more about the disease in the coming weeks.  In the meantime, this simply means we will need to take individual care of our bodies and immunities.

As you may know from our previous guides, Chaga can be a fantastic aid in boosting bodily health.  However, in an age of fake news surrounding COVID-19, it is essential to keep an open mind.  There are some potentially harmful ‘fake cures’ circulating online, which you should not pay attention to.

However, Chaga is a proven dietary supplement that could help to prepare our bodies for long periods of illness.

How Could Chaga Help Prepare Me for COVID-19?

Unfortunately, we are not at a point where we can say for sure that Chaga will fight off COVID-19.  If this is ever the case, we will let you know!  As stated previously, Chaga is an excellent bodily aid which acts more as an illness preventer, rather than a cure.

Taking Chaga could help to prepare your body for strong illnesses, such as COVID-19, in the following ways:

• Chaga is an immunity booster. The extract will help your body fight pathogens and disease by boosting IL-6 cells.  Therefore, it may be beneficial for people concerned about their antibodies.
• Chaga can help you to balance your anxiety and stress. The COVID-19 pandemic is causing much worry and stress all over the world.  Therefore, taking the extract may be beneficial in helping to moderate your woes.  It may also help to prevent fatigue.
• Chaga may also help to relieve pain. It can help to reduce inflammation.  There are conflicting studies on whether or not taking ibuprofen makes COVID-19 worse.  Therefore, Chaga may be a healthier, natural substitute.
• Studies also show that Chaga could help to boost overall endurance. When fighting a new virus or illness, we are going to need all the strength we can get.

Can Chaga Cure COVID-19?

Let’s be clear on this – Chaga cannot cure COVID-19, or at least there is no research yet, looking at this question.

Chaga should be taken as a health booster and preventative measure only.  As COVID-19 studies and research continue, we will hopefully be clearer soon on what could curb it.

In the meantime, Chaga users should continue to take their extract if they wish to.  Boosting your immunity is incredibly important even when coming out of winter.

When Will the Pandemic End?

Unfortunately, there are no clear signs as to when the COVID-19 pandemic will come to an end.  Governments and authorities are working to curb the spread of the illness.  There are multiple vaccines in research stages, though it will likely be some time before we see any emerge.  Testing, both in public and at home, is set to continue for months to come.

Some experts are optimistic; however, some countries have quarantine conditions set up for weeks to come.  The most important thing to do in this scenario is to stay calm and read wider sources.  As the crisis is affecting everyone, a breakthrough will likely emerge in the coming weeks and months.

Some sources and studies suggest that rising warm weather may curb the spread of COVID-19.  However, with temperatures only just heating up, it will be some time before we know its effects for certain.

Conclusion

Chaga is an ideal extract to take in the event of any potential illness.  Studies prove it to be an excellent immunity support, and it may also help to support your mental health at this stressful time.  There are no clear reasons why Chaga users should stop taking their extract.

However, it is just as important to follow measures outlined by health bodies.  Continue to wash your hands regularly and to stay indoors as much as you possibly can.  Where possible, work from home, and connect with friends and family through apps and phone calls.

The COVID-19 pandemic, however long it may last, will be temporary.  Stay prepared and safe in the meantime, if not to protect yourself, but the ones you love – and vulnerable people in your community.

SOURCES USED

https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1

https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(20)30243-7/fulltext

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ibuprofen-use-and-covid19coronavirus

https://www.zmescience.com/medicine/how-long-will-the-coronavirus-pandemic-last/

https://www.ft.com/content/c8ed3692-6db3-11ea-9bca-bf503995cd6f