Historical Soviet Research on Chaga and Skin Health
Based on a 1973 publication in Vestnik Dermatologii i Venerologii; English summary prepared for educational purposes.Background
Interest in the Chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) as a natural remedy grew in the Soviet Union during the 1950s. Early studies conducted at the Botanical Institute of the USSR Academy of Sciences in collaboration with the 1st Leningrad Medical University explored Chaga’s effects on digestive balance and general vitality. Following clinical work, Chaga extract was included in Soviet practice as a supportive remedy for certain gastrointestinal conditions and as a general tonic.
A Notable Clinical Observation
Interest in skin health arose after Prof. E. A. Dosychev noted a remarkable long-term recovery in a patient who had consumed Chaga for many years. This observation encouraged a broader, practice-based review to see whether Chaga might support overall balance in individuals living with chronic skin conditions—especially when digestive or metabolic challenges were also present.
Clinical Overview
The work was conducted at the Clinic of Skin and Venereal Diseases of the Kuibyshev Medical Institute and the Brest Regional Skin and Venereological Clinic. A cohort of 50 patients of various ages participated, many with concurrent digestive or liver concerns. A water-based Chaga preparation (later known as Befungin®) was taken regularly over several months. Participants were monitored for general well-being, digestion, and the appearance of skin. Improvements—when noted—tended to emerge gradually, often becoming apparent after 9–12 weeks of consistent use.
Historical Case Notes
Individual cases included a long-standing scalp involvement that improved alongside digestive comfort after several weeks of steady Chaga intake, and a World War II veteran with joint and digestive issues who reported better mobility, energy, and gradual normalization of the skin during regular use. Outcomes varied, and adherence to routine, diet, and lifestyle appeared to influence the experience.
Summary of Observations
Across the historical cohort, participants frequently reported a sense of improved well-being and digestive balance, with visible normalization of skin appearance during continuous use. Interruptions in routine, irregular diet, or alcohol consumption were noted as potential obstacles. No adverse effects were recorded during the observation period, and preparations were generally well tolerated over the long term.
Conclusions from Historical Research
Soviet authors suggested that Chaga’s normalizing influence on metabolism and digestion might play a supportive role in maintaining healthy skin function. They emphasized gradual, progressive changes requiring consistent intake over time and recommended further research into underlying biological mechanisms.
Educational Notice & Disclaimer
This page summarizes historical Soviet-era observations for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Chaga is not an approved treatment for psoriasis or any medical condition. Individuals should consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any dietary supplement.
Reference: Prof. E. A. Dosychev & V. N. Bystrova, Vestnik Dermatologii i Venerologii, May 1973, pp. 79–83. Used here as a summary; not a reproduction of the original text.