Chaga mushroom - properties, what it helps, contraindications

For some, a parasite and destroyer of birch trees. Well, and a nasturtium (it's really not a very pretty fungus). To others, a valuable source of antioxidants (and looks don't matter). And what do the third - scientists - say?

I asked Ilona Krzak, MSc in pharmacy, and together we dived into the subject from the medical jurnals to the mushroom itself.

See also:

• Cordyceps
• Lion's Mane
• Reishi
• Hogweed
• Adaptogens
• Ashwagandha
• Berberine
• Maccharine
• Caffeine

Chaga - birch tumour. What is this fungus?

Chaga (Latin) Inonotus obliquus) is known in Poland as the subbark spinneret, birch hornwort or birch bump. It is a species of fungus in the bristlecone family. It is a parasite that most often attacks birch trees. It forms a thick layer on them and causes the tree to dieand.

The name of the fungus is pronounced hard - 'chaga'. It is derived from тшак, tšak from the Komi language  - the indigenous inhabitants of the Kama basin, west of the Urals .

Compared to other adaptogenic mushrooms (e.g.  soplosion), chaga is... exceptionally ugly (the author's opinion, but it's hard to disagree - editor's note). It is rare in Poland (avoid the area around the Białowieża Forest). Inhabitants of the north - Scandinavia, Russia and Canadaand - are mainly exposed to its fungal face.

Chaga belongs to the group of so-called vital mushrooms. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine (mainly in the East) to treat stomach ailments, boost the body's immune system and reduce inflammation .

Chaga versus research

The vast majority of scientific studies on the health effects of the chaga fungus have been conducted on animals or in vitro (so-called test-tube studies)and. This means that we know the potential of this plant, but we do not know exactly what effect it has on the human body.

You will say - after all, chaga has been used for thousands of years in Eastern folk medicine. Yes, but note that eastern countries are culturally and medically different from Europe, and traditions should not be a substitute for empirical research

In addition, Europeans have a different metabolism than, for example, Asians. All this influences the perceived effect of the fungus or simply... the placebo effect.

That is why it is good that scientists are checking folk messages about chaga in scientific studies. However, we need to be patient and wait for more qualitative studies with humans. In the meantime, we can marvel at the potential of chaga - who knows, maybe it will help you?

Chaga - properties

The chaga mushroom contains valuable bioactive compounds such asand:

• polysaccharides, including beta-glucans,
.
• triterpenoids,
.
• phenolic compounds,
.
• melanin complexes,
.

Thanks to their content, it exhibits several interesting properties that can support health.

Chaga mushroom potentially:

Strengthens immunity

Animal and in vitro studies suggest that chaga mushroom extract may reduce long-term inflammation and also fight harmful microorganisms. This may have a positive effect on the body's immunity. Chaga stimulates white blood cells, which are essential for fighting bacteria or virusesand.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Chaga may prevent the production of harmful cytokines that cause inflammation and are associated with the onset of certain diseases. In a 2012 mouse study, extract from this mushroom reduced inflammation and intestinal damage by inhibiting inflammatory cytokinesand.

Fighting cancer

Several animal and test-tube studies have shown that chaga can prevent and slow the growth of cancer. This is likely due to its content of valuable antioxidants, which protect cells from oxidative stressand.

One of the valuable antioxidants it contains is triterpene. In vitro studies from 2016 suggest that a concentrated triterpene extract may help destroy cancer cells .

In 2016, a study was also conducted on mice with lung cancer. After 3 weeks of giving them chaga extract, the tumour shrank by 60% .

In another test-tube study, chaga extract prevented tumour growth in human liver cells. Similar results were observed in lung, breast, prostate and colon cancer cellsand.

Reduces cholesterol

High cholesterol increases the risk of death from cardiovascular disease. It increases the likelihood of heart attack, stroke and atherosclerosisand. Chaga extract may have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels, and again scientists are betting that this is due to antioxidants.

In a 2009 study, chaga extract was given to rats with high cholesterol for eight weeks. This mushroom lowered so-called bad LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides, and increased antioxidant levelsand.

In two other similar studies in mice from 2008 and 2017, it was observed that in addition to reducing LDL cholesterol, chaga increased so-called good HDL cholesterol .

Reduces sugar levels

Several scientific papers on rodents suggest that chaga has a positive effect on sugar-insulin metabolism. In a 2008 study on mice with diabetes, consumption of chaga mushroom for three weeks led to a 31% reduction in blood sugarand.

In a 2017 study on obese mice with diabetes, chaga extract was observed to lower blood sugar and insulin resistance compared to mice with diabetes that did not receive the mushroom .

Antioxidant activity

By containing beta-glucans, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds and melanin complexes, chaga can help reduce oxidative stress and protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals .

Free radicals, or unstable, highly reactive molecules, can attack and damage cells, proteins, fats or DNA. They accelerate the ageing of the body and put the body at risk of developing many diseases.

Free radicals are a major contributor to the ageing of the body.

Fighting ulcers

Chaga, in combination with other herbs, has been used in traditional Eastern medicine to treat gastric and duodenal ulcersand.

In 2019, researchers tested this potential in rats with stomach ulcers. Feeding them chaga extract had a beneficial effect on combating the ailment. The researchers explain this by the presence of bioactive components that this mushroom containsand.

Reduces the severity of food allergies

In in vitro studies, chaga mushroom has shown the potential to suppress the activity of immune cells responsible for the allergic reaction to certain foods. Inotodioland is likely responsible for this anti-allergic effect. In mouse studies, this compound reduced food allergy symptoms in rodents.

Chaga versus COVID-19

In 2021 in silico studies (experiments using computer simulation), chaga showed potentially strong interactions with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.This is only a simulation, but it opens up an interesting prospect for researchers for further in vitro and in vivo studies.

Who is chaga for?

The chaga mushroom is recommended for people who are concerned about:

• strengthen immunity,
.
• support the cardiovascular system,
.
• delay the body's ageing process,
.
• regulate blood sugar levels,
.

Which chaga is best?

The best chaga mushroom products contain extract standardised for polysaccharide content (optimally 30%) and triterpenes and DER ( Drug Extract Ratio). This ensures that you know what you are consuming, of what quality and in what quantity. Unfortunately, without providing such information, there is a chance that you will end up with "hay".

Recommended intake

Dose chaga mushroom in the amounts recommended by the manufacturer. The usual daily serving of the extract is 500 to 1500 mg. Unfortunately, due to the small number of scientific studies involving humans, there are no reliable guidelines on the appropriate dose of chaga to achieve a therapeutic effect.

How to use chaga mushroom

Which form is best?

There are coffees, functional drinks, teas, dries, drops, tinctures and chaga mushroom capsules available on the market. Tailor the form to suit you - perhaps you want to start a new ritual during the day with an aromatic coffee? Capsules are convenient, a functional drink can make a cookie more enjoyable, and a tincture - like a tincture - warms and relaxes.

Drink in the morning or evening?

Chaga is best taken in 2-3 servings per day e.g. in the morning, early afternoon and evening, so that the fungus has time to 'set up' in the body. Chaga does not have an adrenaline effect; it is neither stimulating nor sleep-inducing, so do not be afraid to consume it. However, if you take chaga with coffee, drink it at least six hours before bedtime.

When will I feel the effects?

You can feel the effects of chaga mushroom after about 4 weeks systematic use. Some things don't happen straight away, such as improved immunity or lowered blood cholesterol levels. The body has to get used to and utilise the valuable bioactive ingredients.

Chaga is not the type of ingredient whose effects can literally be seen. Observe how you endure autumn colds (perhaps there are fewer of them or they pass more quickly?). Test your cholesterol and sugar levels before you start taking the mushroom and after about 4-6 weeks.

How long can you take chaga?

Scientific studies have tested the effects of chaga mushroom for 2-8 weeks (mainly on animals). The effect of the mushroom on human health is unknown when taken continuously for several months (only harmful cases of use for several years are known). Therefore, after about 4-6 weeks, take a 1-2 week break.

Combination of mushrooms

Scientific research suggests that synergistic interactions between mushrooms can provide benefits that cannot be achieved by consuming them individuallyand. A mix of mushrooms in, for example, coffee or a functional drink can have an adaptogenic, tonic effect and reduce stress, fatigue and stimulate the immune system .

Recommended drinks with chaga and other vital mushrooms

Natural composition

Natu.Care Lion’s Mane & Chaga

5.0

• Active ingredients: extract from Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) and chaga mushroom
• Form: powder
• Packaging: 45 g
• Serving: 1-3 scoops daily
• Lasts for: 30 to 90 days

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Product Description

An ideal combination of Lion's Mane and chaga mushrooms for natural stimulation and motivation during daily tasks. The powder is perfect for making mushroom coffee or tea. Natural composition – Lion’s Mane & Chaga contains concentrated extracts, not powdered mushrooms. The product has been 100% tested for microbiological contaminants. These adaptogens from Natu.Care are also a valuable source of antioxidants. Suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-quality standardized extract from two mushrooms.
• Tested for microbiological contaminants.
• Perfect for making mushroom coffee or tea – does not alter the taste of other beverages.
• No unnecessary additives or fillers in the composition.
• Tested by the independent laboratory Hamilton Polska

Cons:

• None

Best combination

Natu.Care Ashwagandha & Cordyceps

5.0

• Active substance: extract from the root of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) and from the fruiting bodies of Cordyceps sinensis mushroom
• Amount of active substance: 60 mg
• Standardisation: ashwagandha KSM-66 standardised to 5% withanolides.
• Daily serving: 1 scoop - 500 mg
• Packaging: 120 servings
• Lasts for: 3 months

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Product Description

Ashwagandha & Cordyceps is the ideal support for those living in a rush, exposed to stress, and seeking a moment of calm. Ashwagandha supports stress reduction, helps alleviate anxiety, and promotes emotional balance. Chinese Cordyceps is classified as a “superfood” – it exhibits immunostimulatory effects, making it suitable for consumption in cases of reduced immunity and during the autumn-winter season. An effective combination of adaptogens. An ideal addition to cocoa or tea.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Combination of two unique adaptogens: extract from the fruiting body of the Cordyceps sinensis mushroom, extract from the root of Ashwagandha.
• Ashwagandha root extract KSM-66 standardised to 5% withanolides.
• No unnecessary colourings, flavours, or sweeteners.
• Tested by an independent laboratory, Hamilton Poland.

Cons:

• None

Health Labs ShroomMe Men Lion’s Mane&Chaga

4.8

• Active ingredients:
  Adaptogenic extracts: Lion’s Mane – 250 mg (75 mg polysaccharides); Chaga – 250 mg (100 mg polysaccharides) in one scoop (500 mg)

• Who is it for and why?
  For adult men and individuals leading an active lifestyle – supports concentration, brain functions, increases energy and immunity.

• Form:
  Powder (vegan)

• Daily serving:
  1 scoop (500 mg), can be taken 1–3 times daily, dissolve in a drink (do not add to boiling water)

• Sufficient for:
  90 servings – assuming 1 scoop daily

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Product Description

ShroomMe Men Lion's Mane & Chaga Health Labs is a dietary supplement designed to supplement the daily diet of men with concentrated extracts of adaptogenic mushrooms: Lion's Mane and Chaga. Both extracts are characterised by a high content of polysaccharides.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Standardised high-quality extracts – effectiveness and reliability

• Vegan product – free from lactose, gluten, and artificial additives

• Independently tested for purity – guarantees safety

• Flexible dosing – can be used with coffee, tea, or in smoothies

• Supports concentration, memory, and immunity – ideal for a demanding lifestyle

Cons:

• Mushroom taste – may not be to everyone's liking, although blending with drinks hides it

• Should not be added to boiling water – requires patience in preparation

• Supplement – not a treatment; in case of diseases or medications, consult a doctor

• Open packaging should be consumed within 3 months – requires organisation in storage

Yango APCC

4.8

• Active ingredients:
  Extracts from four vital mushrooms: Reishi, Shiitake, Cordyceps, Chaga – each standardised to a minimum of 10% polysaccharides

• For whom and why?
  For adults – supports immunity, circulatory system and overall well-being; particularly useful during periods of weakness, stress, colds or increased physical effort

• Form:
  Vegetarian plant-based capsules

• Daily dosage:
  1 capsule twice daily, after meals, with water

• Sufficient for:
  50 days (100 capsules at a dose of 2 daily)

---

 

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Product Description

Yango APCC is a dietary supplement in capsule form designed to supplement the daily diet of adults. The formula contains four vital mushrooms, standardised to 10% polysaccharides.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Complex of four mushrooms, each with polysaccharides – supports immunity and energy

• Suitable for vegans and vegetarians, free from artificial additives and fillers

• Day and night – flexible use according to practical needs

• Convenient, large packaging provides a long-lasting treatment

Cons:

• Supplement, not a medicine – for health issues, it is advisable to consult a doctor

• Not suitable for children, pregnant, and breastfeeding women

• May cause allergies – it is important to review the ingredients before consumption

• Effects may be delayed – requires a longer treatment, usually several weeks

Doctor Life Mushroom Complex

4.8

• Активни съставки:
  Стандартизирани екстракти от седем жизненоважни гъби: Shiitake, Chaga, Reishi (също спори), Agaricus Blazei, Maitake и Cordyceps – всички в технология на двойна екстракция, богати на полизахариди

• За кого и за какво?
  За възрастни – подпомага имунитета, нервната система, имунната защита на организма и дълголетието; може да помага в борбата със стреса и да увеличава енергията

• Форма:
  Вегетариански растителни капсули (пулулан)

• Дневна доза:
  2–3 капсули дневно, най-добре сутрин на гладно или между храненията (1–2 пъти дневно)

• Достатъчно за:
  Около 33–50 дни (при доза от 2–3 капсули)

Провери цената

Описание на продукта

Mushroom Complex от Doctor Life е хранителна добавка в капсули, предназначена за допълване на ежедневната диета на възрастни. Формулата съдържа 7 висококачествени стандартизирани екстракта от жизнени гъби: 

• Шийтаке (Lentinula edodes),
• кордицепс (Cordyceps sinensis),
• Чага (Inonotus obliquus),
• Agaricus blazei,
• Рейши (Ganoderma lucidum) – екстракт от цяла гъба,
• Рейши – екстракт от счупени спори,
• Майтаке (Grifola frondosa).

Формулата е допълнително обогатена с Cistanche salsa – растение, известно в традиционната китайска медицина.

Това са 100% натурални екстракти. Активните съставки са затворени в растителна капсула от пулулан – естествен полизахарид, получен от тапиока. Благодарение на това, добавката е подходяща и за вегани и вегетарианци. Не съдържа захар, глутен, изкуствени аромати, оцветители или консерванти.

Плюсове и минуси

Плюсове:

• Смес от цели седем вида гъби – широко укрепващо действие

• Двойна екстракция – осигурява висока концентрация на активни съставки

• Четири основни гъби (включително спори от Рейши) – подкрепят имунитета и адаптацията към стрес

• Веганска, без добавки – капсулите от пулулан не съдържат глутен, лактоза или консерванти

• Високо оценен продукт от потребителите – радва се на добра репутация в аптеките и специализирани магазини

Минуси:

• Добавка, не лекарство – не замества лечението на заболявания и изисква търпение (ефектите след няколко седмици)

• Дневна доза от 2–3 капсули – необходима е последователност и систематичност

• Не е подходящ за деца, бременни жени и кърмещи – изисква консултация с лекар

• Лицата с алергии към гъби трябва да бъдат внимателни

Nature's Gifts Birch Chaga Fungus

4.7

• Active ingredients:
  100% organic extract of the chaga fungus (Inonotus obliquus), known as black birch fungus

• Who is it for and why?
  For adults – supports the immune system, nervous system, and metabolic processes in the body

• Form:
  Vegetable capsules (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose)

• Daily portion:
  1 capsule daily, taken with water

• Sufficient for:
  60 days at the standard dose

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Nature's Gifts Birch "Chaga" is an organic dietary supplement in the form of capsules. The product contains an extract of the chaga mushroom* (Inonotus obliquus), which is a wood-dwelling species primarily found on birch trees. In Polish literature, it is known by many names: birch polypore, black birch conk, birch fungus, or chaga.

The raw material used for the production of this preparation comes from organic farming.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Raw material from organic sources – pure, without artificial additives

• Traditionally used in folk medicine since the 16th century.

• Supports immunity, the nervous system, and metabolic processes

• Vegan product – gluten-free, lactose-free, and preservative-free

• High user rating (~4.8/5) – confirmed in trusted reviews (88% rated 5/5)

Cons:

• Supplement, not a medicine – consultation with a doctor recommended in case of illness or treatment

• Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for those allergic to mushrooms

• Effects require regularity – results after several weeks of use

• One capsule daily – may be too low an amount of active ingredient for some

PharmoVit Mushroom Complex

4.8

• Active ingredients:
  Standardised extracts: Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake, Cordyceps, Umbrella (Brownhat), Agaricus Blazei – each contains polysaccharides and beta-glucans.

• Who is it for and why?
  For adults – supports immunity, cardiovascular system, and stress reduction; suitable during periodic recovery or an intensive lifestyle.

• Form:
  Vegetarian capsules (pullulan).

• Daily serving:
  1–2 capsules, preferably in the morning or before meals.

• Sufficient for:
  30–60 days (one or two months of use).

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Product Description

PharmoVit Mushroom Complex is a dietary supplement combining 4 extracts from mushrooms: lion's mane, Cordyceps sinensis, chaga, and reishi. The product comes in cellulose capsules, which can be a dietary supplement for adults.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Wide range of vitality mushrooms – comprehensive health benefits

• Standardised extracts – ensure effectiveness and safety

• Vegetarian capsules – free from animal ingredients

• Rich in polysaccharides and beta-glucans – supporting immunity

• Simple and convenient form – easy to take

Cons:

• Supplement, not a medicine – requires regularity and does not treat diseases

• Daily dose of 1–2 capsules – requires consistency

• Not for children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding without consultation

• Potential allergies to mushrooms – check the ingredients before use

Swanson Full Spectrum Chaga Mushroom

4.8

• Active ingredients:
  400 mg of dried Chaga mushroom powder (Inonotus obliquus) per capsule

• Who is it for and why?
  For adults – to support the immune system and provide antioxidant action; also as an addition to “mushroom tea”

• Form:
  Capsules (plant-based gelatin)

• Daily serving:
  1 capsule 1–3 times daily – can also be used as an addition to a drink

• Sufficient for:
  60 days at a dose of 1 capsule daily

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Product Description

Swanson^® Full Spectrum^® Chaga Mushroom is a dietary supplement designed to complement the daily diet of adults. The formula is a source of an active ingredient of natural origin – the mycelium of the chaga mushroom enclosed in a gelatin capsule.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High dose of 400 mg of the whole mushroom – broad spectrum of phytonutrients

• Easy to use form – capsule or preparation of an infusion

• Classic and well-known form of Chaga supplement – without unnecessary additives

• Antioxidant properties – supports immunity and neutralisation of free radicals

Cons:

• Supplement, not a medicine – requires periodic use for effects

• Gelatin capsule – may not be vegan

• Lack of standardisation on polysaccharides – differences may occur between batches

• Effects may appear gradually after several weeks

SOLVE LABS Collagen Peptides

4.2

• Collagen content: 6000 mg hydrolyzed beef collagen type I and III COLLinstant®
.
• Additional active ingredients: hyaluronic acid
• Form: powder
.
• Dose: one scoop (6 g) daily
.
• Sufficient for: 30 days
.

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Product description

High quality hydrolysate of bovine collagen (types I and III). A daily portion will support jointóry, bone and muscle health. It will also contribute to the quality and appearance of your skinóry and support its regeneration. You will feel the moisturising properties on soft hair and see them on a nice nail plate.

.

Pros and cons

High quality hydrolysate of bovine collagen (types I and III). A daily portion will support jointóry, bone and muscle health. It will also contribute to the quality and appearance of your skinóry and support its regeneration. You will feel the moisturising properties on soft hair and see them on a nice nail plate.

.

Additional information

High quality hydrolysate of bovine collagen (types I and III). A daily portion will support jointóry, bone and muscle health. It will also contribute to the quality and appearance of your skinóry and support its regeneration. You will feel the moisturising properties on soft hair and see them on a nice nail plate.

.

User review

High quality hydrolysate of bovine collagen (types I and III). A daily portion will support jointóry, bone and muscle health. It will also contribute to the quality and appearance of your skinóry and support its regeneration. You will feel the moisturising properties on soft hair and see them on a nice nail plate.

.

Natural support

LION'S MANE, Hedgehog fungus

5.0

• Active ingredients: Extract of soplós Mane (Lion’s Mane)
.
• Form: powder
.
• Packaging: 30 g or 100 g
.
• Dose: 1 scoop 3 times daily
.
• Sufficient for: 60 or 200 days
.

See price

Product description

Sopl’s Mane will work well for people who’re in need of a natural boost and motivation during daily tasks. If you’re physically or mentally active, Lion’s Mane will have a positive effect on your energy, motivation and can influence your well-being.

Lion’s Mane shows the potential to support immunity, reduce inflammation and support nervous system recovery.

Pros and cons

Sopl’s Mane will work well for people who’re in need of a natural boost and motivation during daily tasks. If you’re physically or mentally active, Lion’s Mane will have a positive effect on your energy, motivation and can influence your well-being.

Lion’s Mane shows the potential to support immunity, reduce inflammation and support nervous system recovery.

Additional information

Sopl’s Mane will work well for people who’re in need of a natural boost and motivation during daily tasks. If you’re physically or mentally active, Lion’s Mane will have a positive effect on your energy, motivation and can influence your well-being.

Lion’s Mane shows the potential to support immunity, reduce inflammation and support nervous system recovery.

User review

Sopl’s Mane will work well for people who’re in need of a natural boost and motivation during daily tasks. If you’re physically or mentally active, Lion’s Mane will have a positive effect on your energy, motivation and can influence your well-being.

Lion’s Mane shows the potential to support immunity, reduce inflammation and support nervous system recovery.

Chaga - contraindications to use

Contraindications to the use of chaga mushroom include: pregnancy, breastfeeding, age under 18 years, taking immunosuppressive and anti-diabetic medications. Data on drug interactions with chaga extracts come only from in vitro and animal studies, so exercise cautionand.

Potentially, taking extracts of this mushroom may inhibit platelet aggregation and increase the risk of bleeding, so it should not be used before planned surgery. If in doubt - speak to your doctor.

Side effects

The most common side effects of chaga use are gastrointestinal complaints - abdominal pain and nauseaand. They usually pass after the mushroom is discontinued. Damage to the kids may occur with excess consumption. Use of chaga with medications with which the mushroom interacts can cause disorders insulin-sugar balance and problems with normal blood clotting.

I read on the forum: Innocent mushroom, cannot harm you. Unfortunately, but anything can harm you if you overdo it with the period of consumption or dose. It is the same with chaga.

Is chaga safe?

The chaga mushroom contains a lot of oxalates, excessive consumption of which can cause kidney stonesand. To date, two cases of oxalate-induced kidney disease have been reported after long-term consumption of this mushroom.

The first case was a 49-year-old man who consumed double the recommended daily serving of chaga daily for five years. He developed end-stage renal failureand. The second case involves a 72-year-old woman with liver cancer who consumed 4-5 teaspoons of chaga daily for six months. She developed kidney diseaseand.

It is believed that it was the high oxalate content of chaga (6.72-97.59 mg) that caused the kidney disease in these two cases.

Conclusion - follow the manufacturer's recommendations and focus on quality, not quantity.

Chaga - reviews

Summary