This one was so large that we had to cut it into smaller pieces so it would dry properly. I use it to make a hot beverage similar to coffee. It has a flavour and aroma which is rich and earthy and woody and relatively mild. Chaga has medicinal properties: antioxidant & anti-inflammatory, used for both heart and brain health, and may have anti-cancer potential to inhibit tumor growth.
The property owner told me he had found some chaga in a grove of birches. I asked him to show me, so we went for a short hike. This one was the largest and was about 4' off the ground. We harvested it and shared it among friends.
!Harvested chaga