Research reveals that Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) can work effectively to whiten your skin. Researchers from Kwangju Women’s University (KWU) tested the extracts of this fungus for their skin whitening abilities. They found that extracts of Chaga mushroom can potentially inhibit the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase.
Tyrosinase is a catalytic enzyme for the amino acid tyrosine. It breaks down tyrosine into pigments such as melanin, which is responsible for the dark coloration of the skin.
The chaga mushroom is a species of wild fungus. It grows on birch trees in the northern part of the world and is prescribed as a treatment for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and other illnesses.
Investigating it for its healing properties, the researchers have found the Chaga mushroom has:
- Antioxidant potential
- Anti-inflammatory nature
- Immunoregulatory properties
What does the study reveal?
The researchers from the KWU compared the antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory properties of the mushroom. They processed the samples of the mushroom into the distilled water extract and broke down the extract into its ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and aqueous fractions.
Both the extract and fractions underwent a modified gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. This led the researchers to determine the independent components and their abundance in the chaga mushroom-derived solutions.
Chaga mushroom to 'reverse signs of ageing'
Reportshealthcare.com reports that based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that chaga mushroom promises safe and anti-ageing effects on an individual. Thus, it can effectively work as a natural skin whitening agent.
